Atlantica - 01.07.2004, Page 78

Kaffibarinn
What can you say about a pub with such an inter-
national reputation that it attracts stars such as
Sofia Coppola and her father, Francis? (They were
spotted in the pub this winter.) Not much. And if
you arrive before midnight, you’ll pretty much
have the pub to yourself, as the cool creatures
don’t show up until 2:00 am.
Kaffibarinn, Bergstadastraeti 1, 101 Reykjavík,
(+354) 551 1588
Sirkus
The best thing about the pub Sirkus is that while
we here at the magazine get older, the crowd
stays the same age. Yes, if you want to dip into the
cradle, head to this funky bar where Reykjavík’s
youngest, some legal drinkers, some not, mingle.
A major hangout for expats, pseudo filmmakers,
pseudo writers, pseudo artists and scores of other
posers. If you go, be ready to drink loads of beer.
Sirkus, Klapparstígur, 101 Reykjavík
Where to Wi-Fi:
If you have to ask then forget about it. But for
those of you travelling with lap-tops configured to
wi-fi, head to Reykjavik Bagel Company
(Laugavegur 81). If munching on a poppy seed
bagel while surging the net ain’t your style, there’s
always Kaffibarinn (Bergstadastraeti 1). Relax, it’s
quiet during the afternoon, especially upstairs
where you can lounge on the musty couches. For
a less grunged-out spot, bring your computer to
Hressingarskálinn (Austurstræti 20), otherwise
known as Hresso, the most relaxing spot in
Reykjavík to log on.
Shopping:
Nonnabúd
The ultimate in underground chic. Owned by artist
Jón Sæmundur Audarsson (Nonni) who together
with his alter ego, Dead, have developed a con-
cept which they hope will survive art itself. Using
clothes as his chosen medium, Nonni emblazons
jackets, ties and t-shirts with his skull trade mark
as well as a series of odd sentences and slogans.
Worn by Reykjavík rock stars and wannabe rock
stars, his skull-covered shop is worth a visit just
for the wow factor.
Nonnabúð, Klapparstígur 19, 101 Reykjavík
Lakkrísbúdin
Literally meaning, “The Licorice Shop,” this tiny
boutique was set up by Thurý Sigthórsdóttir, cre-
ator of hip label Scandinavian Tourist, and her
brother Thór.
Here she sells the designs of Iceland´s youngest,
hippest designers. Also on the rails you’ll find a
selection of clothes and accessories by London
labels such as Emma Cook, Yaz Bouquet and Peter
Jensen. Laugavegur 12a
Kringlan Shopping Mall
Ok, it’s a mall, and mall’s aren’t very exciting.
However, this is where you can find designer
labels along with high street labels, a great super-
market, bookstores, record stores, gifts and home-
ware. Our favourites for fashion are Hugo Boss,
17(which features French Connection and Diesel),
Centrum for funky fifties fashions and Kultura for
gorgeously original feminine clothing.
Kringlan, Kringlan 8-12, 105 Reykjavík
Fylgifiskar
This is one great concept store: a fish shop that
sells fresh fish already prepared for you to cook at
home. You can’t beat this for inexpensive gourmet
dinners: they offer a wide selection of different
fish dishes daily such as tomato and olive bacalao,
thai fishcakes, almond trout, fish fajitas and orien-
tal monkfish. Also has a great selection of condi-
ments.
Skólavörðustígur 8, 101 Reykjavík.
11-11
Starving after a night on the town? Or have you
returned from a soggy camping trip in the middle
of the night and are in dire need of a toothbrush ?
This is the only convenience store in the city cen-
tre that stays open all night long, and believe us,
you’ll be glad we mentioned it.
11-11, Skúlagata, 101 Reykjavík.
Book Stores:
Eymundsson
The city’s most sophisticated bookstore is located
on the city’s most central street. Its more than
three floors of book heaven offer a great selection
in English ranging from bestsellers to more
obscure tomes, as well as beautiful art and pho-
tography books. Lots of books and souvenirs on
Iceland, and a fun kid’s section downstairs.
Eymundsson, Austurstræti 18, 101 Reykjavík
Mál og Menning
Another great bookstore on three levels on the
city’s main shopping street, including a great
selection of English books and magazines. Check
out Súfistinn, its wonderful café on the top floor
where you can browse through the latest maga-
zines while enjoying a light meal and a coffee.
Cultural evenings and readings are hosted regu-
larly.
Mál og Menning, Laugavegur 18, 101 Reykjavík
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