Akureyri’s Craft Beer Scene: A Northern Icelandic Brew Adventure

Welcome to Akureyri, the ‘Capital of the North’! While many visitors are drawn to this charming Arctic Circle city for its stunning natural beauty – think whale watching in Eyjafjörður, the majestic Goðafoss waterfall, and the otherworldly landscapes of Lake Mývatn – there’s a burgeoning craft beer scene here that’s definitely worth exploring. As a local who’s spent years savoring the unique flavors of Icelandic brews, I’m thrilled to guide you through the best spots to find exceptional craft beer in Akureyri.

Iceland’s beer culture has evolved dramatically over the past few decades. Once dominated by a few large breweries, the country now boasts a vibrant craft scene, and Akureyri, despite its size, is punching above its weight. The isolation and the desire to create something unique often inspire Icelandic brewers, leading to some truly distinctive offerings. You’ll find that many Icelandic beers incorporate local ingredients or are inspired by the rugged, untamed nature surrounding them. Let’s dive into where you can experience this firsthand.

The Heart of Akureyri’s Brews: Local Breweries and Taprooms

While Akureyri might not have the sheer number of breweries found in larger European capitals, the quality and passion are undeniable. The focus here is on small-batch, artisanal creations that reflect the spirit of the North.

Bruggsmiðjan Kaldi (Bruggsmiðjan Brewery)

No discussion of Icelandic craft beer is complete without mentioning Bruggsmiðjan Kaldi. While their main brewery is technically located in Árskógssandur, just a scenic drive north of Akureyri (about 30 minutes), their influence and availability are deeply felt in the city. Kaldi is Iceland’s first privately owned brewery, established in 2006, and they’ve been pioneers in bringing quality craft beer to the masses. Their flagship beer, ‘Kaldi,’ is a consistently excellent pilsner that’s crisp, clean, and incredibly refreshing – a perfect antidote to a day of exploring or a long Icelandic winter night.

What makes Kaldi special is their commitment to traditional brewing methods. They use pure Icelandic glacial water, which is renowned for its purity and soft character, contributing to the smooth taste of their beers. Beyond their signature pilsner, they often produce seasonal and special edition brews. Keep an eye out for their darker ‘Borg Brugghús’ collaborations or their lighter ‘Léttöl’ if you’re looking for lower alcohol options.

Insider Tip: While not in Akureyri itself, the brewery tour at Árskógssandur is highly recommended if you have a car. It’s a fantastic way to see where the magic happens and sample fresh brews directly from the source. You can often find Kaldi beers readily available in Akureyri’s bars and restaurants, making it a staple of the local scene.

Local Spots Pouring Akureyri’s Best

Even without a dedicated brewpub within the immediate city center, Akureyri has several fantastic establishments where you can sample the best of Icelandic craft beer, including brews that might be inspired by or brewed in the region.

The concept of the ‘craft beer bar’ is well-established here, with places that pride themselves on their curated selection. These are the places where locals gather, and where you’ll find knowledgeable staff eager to guide you through the offerings. For an authentic taste of what Akureyri and its surrounding areas have to offer, these are your go-to destinations:

Strikið Restaurant & Bar

Located in the heart of Akureyri, Strikið is a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere, great food, and, importantly, a well-stocked bar. While it’s a restaurant first, their commitment to offering a diverse selection of beverages means you’ll often find a good range of Icelandic craft beers on tap and in bottles. They are known to carry Kaldi and other popular Icelandic craft brands. The modern ambiance and central location make it an ideal place to start your evening or enjoy a relaxed lunch with a quality brew.

Strikið often features rotating taps, so what’s available can change, which is part of the fun of exploring local craft beer. Ask your server about what Icelandic craft beers are currently featured – they’re usually happy to offer recommendations based on your preferences.

Oasis Restaurant & Bar

Another excellent choice in downtown Akureyri, Oasis offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Similar to Strikið, it’s a place where you can enjoy a meal and then settle in for a drink. Their bar often features a selection of Icelandic beers, and they are known for being attentive to quality. It’s a good place to find familiar Icelandic favorites and perhaps discover a new local gem. The friendly service here adds to the overall positive experience.

Akureyri Backpackers Bar

For a more casual and budget-friendly experience, Akureyri Backpackers often has a surprisingly good selection of local beers. While it caters to travelers, it also attracts locals looking for a relaxed vibe. You can often find Kaldi and other accessible Icelandic craft beers here, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing without breaking the bank. It’s a place where you can strike up a conversation with fellow travelers or locals and share your Akureyri adventures.

Local Supermarkets and Vínbúðin (State Alcohol Stores)

If you prefer to enjoy your craft beer in your accommodation or during a scenic picnic, you can purchase beer from local supermarkets or the state-run liquor store, Vínbúðin. Vínbúðin is your best bet for a comprehensive selection of Icelandic beers, including many craft options. While supermarkets will stock the most common brands like Kaldi, Vínbúðin often has a wider variety, including limited releases and beers from smaller, newer breweries.

Insider Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff at Vínbúðin for recommendations. They are knowledgeable about their stock and can point you towards interesting Icelandic craft beers you might not have discovered otherwise. Buying beer from these stores is also significantly more economical than purchasing it at bars and restaurants, especially if you plan on enjoying a few drinks.

Beyond the City: Exploring Regional Flavors

While Akureyri is our main focus, the spirit of Icelandic brewing extends throughout the North. If you venture out, you might discover even more unique offerings.

Mývatn Nature Baths and Local Offerings

The Lake Mývatn area, a must-visit destination from Akureyri, is known for its geothermal activity and unique landscapes. While there isn’t a dedicated brewery directly at the Mývatn Nature Baths, the cafes and restaurants in the vicinity, and in the nearby town of Reykjahlíð, often stock local Icelandic beers. It’s a great place to pair a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters with a cold, crisp Icelandic beer, perhaps a Kaldi Pilsner or a seasonal special.

The connection between Iceland’s natural wonders and its craft beverages is strong. Many brewers aim to capture the essence of the land in their brews, so a beer enjoyed in the Mývatn region might feel particularly fitting.

What to Expect from Icelandic Craft Beer

Icelandic craft beer is characterized by a few key elements:

Purity of Water: As mentioned, the pristine glacial water is a fundamental ingredient, lending a clean, soft profile to the beers.
Unique Ingredients: While not always prevalent, some Icelandic brewers experiment with local botanicals, berries, or even volcanic minerals to impart unique flavors.
Focus on Quality: Given the smaller scale of production, there’s a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Variety of Styles: You’ll find everything from classic lagers and pilsners to IPAs, stouts, and sour ales. The scene is constantly evolving.
Higher Price Point: Be prepared; craft beer in Iceland, like most things, can be more expensive than in other countries due to import taxes, production costs, and the general cost of living.

Practical Tips for Your Akureyri Beer Journey

Here are some insider tips to make your craft beer exploration in Akureyri even more enjoyable:

Embrace the Local: Don’t be afraid to try beers you haven’t heard of. Icelandic brewers are creative, and you might discover your new favorite.
Check for Specials: Bars often have rotating taps or special offers. Ask your server or bartender for the latest updates.
Consider a Designated Driver or Taxi: If you plan on visiting Bruggsmiðjan Kaldi at Árskógssandur, or if you’re enjoying multiple drinks in Akureyri, always plan your transportation. Drinking and driving is strictly enforced in Iceland. Taxis are available, or you can use ride-sharing apps if they operate in the area.
Pairing with Food: Icelandic cuisine, with its focus on fresh seafood and lamb, pairs wonderfully with a variety of craft beers. A crisp pilsner complements fish, while a richer stout can stand up to lamb dishes.
Learn a Few Icelandic Beer Terms: While not essential, knowing ‘bjór’ (beer), ‘léttöl’ (light beer), ‘dökkur’ (dark), and ‘ljós’ (light) can be helpful.
Stay Updated: For the latest on Icelandic breweries, new releases, and industry news, check out resources like Dropt.beer’s insights and news blog. They offer a fantastic overview of the Icelandic craft beer scene, including updates from brewers large and small.

The Future of Akureyri’s Craft Beer

While Akureyri currently relies on established breweries like Kaldi and a good selection in its bars, the passion for craft beer is growing. As tourism increases and more locals embrace artisanal products, it wouldn’t be surprising to see more small-scale brewing operations emerge directly within the city in the future. The spirit of innovation and the access to incredible natural resources provide fertile ground for this to happen.

For now, Akureyri offers a delightful introduction to the unique world of Icelandic craft beer. It’s a scene that’s deeply connected to its environment, focused on quality, and full of a refreshing, unpretentious charm. So, next time you find yourself in the ‘Capital of the North,’ make sure to explore its growing craft beer offerings. You can find a curated selection of Icelandic beers and brewing accessories available online at Dropt.beer’s shop, which is a great way to discover what the country has to offer, even if you can’t visit in person.

Whether you’re enjoying a Kaldi Pilsner overlooking Eyjafjörður or trying a unique seasonal brew at a cozy downtown bar, Akureyri’s craft beer scene is a rewarding adventure for any beer enthusiast. Cheers!