about us

Welcome to Gaukurinn, your favorite dive bar and live venue located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík!

With a rich history dating back to its opening on 19 November 1983, Gaukurinn has become a staple in the Icelandic culture scene. Best known for hosting hundreds of Iceland’s biggest artists, we have a deep and colorful past of live performances, making it a beloved institution for music lovers, artists, those living on the fringe, and everybody in-between!

Gaukurinn is more than just a bar; it is a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone. We pride ourselves on being LGBTQ+ friendly, and our commitment to diversity and openness is reflected in everything we do. Our venue has always been a safe haven for the queer, alternative, and drag communities, offering a vibrant and supportive environment where all artists can thrive. Whatever you’re into, our promise is that there's always something exciting happening under our roof.

At Gaukurinn, we believe in creating a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for all our patrons. Our gender-neutral bathrooms and caring staff are just two of the ways we cater to our patrons’ diverse needs and preferences. Whether you’re here for a rock or metal night, or to enjoy the latest grooves from local electronic artists, Gaukurinn is your safe space where everybody is welcome.

Visit us and see what makes us so famous!

Did you know…

Gaukurinn poured the very first beer on tap in Iceland?

Gaukur á Stöng, now known as Gaukurinn,was founded by a group of young economists and lawyers returning from their studies. It was originally intended to be a German-style beer bar. Despite alcohol being prohibited at the time, Gaukurinn sold beer until 1989 when the law changed, allowing the official sale of beer. The name Gaukur á Stöng references Gauk Trandilsson, who lived on the farm Stöng during the Age of Settlement.