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Reykjavík › Reykjavík › Bastard Brew & Food
Bastard Brew & FoodB+Worth Trying
Vegamótastígur 4, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
· Brewpub, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (2381 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Lively downtown brewpub with crowd-pleasing burgers, tacos, and strong cocktails; great vibe and happy hour, but service consistency and food execution can vary.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Bastard Brew & Food delivers solid neighborhood brewpub performance with exceptional beer and cocktail guidance and appealing downtown location that make it a fun social stop. However, inconsistent food quality—ranging from juicy burgers to dry execution—and occasional service delays during peak hours prevent it from reaching higher standards. It's a worthwhile destination for groups seeking good cocktails and casual fare in a lively atmosphere, though not a must-visit for serious dining.
Restaurant Summary
Set just off Laugavegur, Bastard hums with lively brewpub energy—packed tables, bar chatter, and servers who often steer folks toward local beers and flights. One traveler summed it up: "They walked me through the taps and nailed our choices." Expect a fun, social atmosphere with happy hour crowds and the occasional squeeze between close tables. The cooking leans elevated pub fare—burgers, tacos, and flatbreads—with a few playful twists like cauliflower tacos and a beetroot-patty burger. Cocktails get real love here and are frequently praised as trip highlights, though food execution can swing from juicy and bold to a touch average when busy. It suits groups and casual dates who value a good-time vibe over formality. Families do fine thanks to burgers, chicken tenders, and simple sides. There is a vegetarian beetroot burger and cauliflower tacos, but no clear kids menu mentioned. Portions are generally solid; just note tacos can be small and a bit messy, so bring kid-friendly backups if needed.
At a Glance
- Lively downtown vibe with fun happy hour
- Strong cocktail program and helpful beer guidance
- Crowd-pleasing burgers, tacos, and shareables
- Service speed and attentiveness can be inconsistent at peak times
- Food execution varies (dry burgers or small tacos reported)
What Sets It Apart
- all_day_monday_happy_hour
- robust_cocktail_program
- central_downtown_location
What People Love
- Happy hour deals that make it easy to linger
- Cocktails that feel crafted, not perfunctory
- Staff who help navigate local beers
- Comfort food favorites with a playful edge
Points of Concern
- Peak-time waits and slower order taking reported; book or come early
- Food can be hit-or-miss, with occasional dry burgers and small tacos
- A few reports of undercooked or lukewarm items without proactive apology
- Pricing on cocktails can lift totals faster than expected in ISK
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostISK 7,500-10,500 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose the Double Bastard (ISK 3,990) if you want value among burgers
- Swap fries for salad (ISK 590) to balance heavier mains
- Vegetarians: Skinny Bastard beetroot patty with burrata offers a fuller plate
Perfect For
- Pre-bar-hop drinks and bites
- Casual group dinners
- Tourists exploring downtown
- Burger-and-beer cravings
Location Insights
Area: Bustling downtown street near Laugavegur with tourists and locals, bar-hopping energy and casual dining.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, heavy foot traffic late into evening; typical downtown nightlife dynamics.
Nearby: Steps from shops, bars, and hotels; convenient stop during walking tours and nightlife circuits.
101 Reykjavík101 Reykjavík is the downtown core and main commercial area, bustling with cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops. It has a lively, youthful atmosphere with a strong emphasis on Icelandic culture and modern urban life, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking diverse dining and entertainment options.
VegamótastígurVegamótastígur is a small street known for its trendy bars and eateries, attracting a crowd that appreciates craft brews and informal dining. It offers a cozy, neighborhood feel within the bustling city center.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:45–01:00
Tuesday11:45–01:00
Wednesday11:45–01:00
Thursday11:45–01:00
Friday11:45–01:00
Saturday12:00–01:00
Sunday12:00–01:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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