Helgi's Bar & Restaurant, Kirkwall

4.5 (616)

Cozy Kirkwall bar and restaurant blending Viking heritage with fresh local seafood, craft ales, and inventive cocktails.

Helgi's is a charming bar and restaurant located at 14 Harbour Street in Kirkwall, Orkney. Known for its cozy atmosphere, harbor views, and a menu featuring locally sourced comfort food, it offers a wide selection of local ales, whiskies, and creative cocktails. With a blend of traditional Viking-inspired decor and modern hospitality, Helgi's is a popular spot for both casual drinks and hearty meals, including vegan and gluten-free options.

A brief summary to Helgi's

14 Harbour St, Kirkwall, KW15 1LE, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 pm-12 am
Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
Thursday 12 pm-12 am
Friday 12 pm-1 am
Saturday 12 pm-1 am
Sunday 12:30 pm-12 am

Local tips

Book ahead during weekends and evenings to secure a seat, especially for the upstairs dining area with harbour views.
Try local specialties like the seafood platter or fish and chips made with freshly caught Orkney fish.
Enjoy the extensive cocktail menu featuring drinks made with local gin, vodka, and whisky.
Participate in the lively Thursday quiz night or catch live music sessions for a true local experience.
Check for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available to accommodate various dietary needs.

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Getting There

Bus

Take the local Stagecoach bus service to Kirkwall town center; from the main bus stop, Helgi's is a 10-minute walk along Harbour Street. Bus journeys from nearby towns typically take 30–50 minutes, with fares around £3–£6.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Kirkwall and can take you directly to 14 Harbour Street within 5 minutes from the town center. Expect fares of approximately £5–£10 depending on starting point and time of day.
Car

Driving to Helgi's is straightforward with parking options including free street parking nearby, though spaces can be limited during peak times. The area is pedestrian-friendly but be mindful of busy periods.
Walking

If staying in central Kirkwall, Helgi's is easily accessible on foot with flat, paved routes along Harbour Street. Walking times range from 5 to 15 minutes depending on your accommodation location.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Information Boards

Helgi's location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather

Discover more about Helgi's

A Storied Setting on Kirkwall's Harbour Front

Helgi's occupies a historic building once used as shipping offices, now transformed into a warm and inviting bar and restaurant. Its location on Harbour Street places it at the heart of Kirkwall's bustling waterfront, where fresh seafood lands daily. The interior evokes Orkney’s Viking heritage with slate floors, wooden paneling, and a carved wooden fireplace, blending traditional pub charm with a modern café feel. Upstairs, a dining room offers tranquil views over the harbour, perfect for a relaxed meal or quiet drink.

Locally Inspired Menu with Broad Appeal

Helgi's culinary offerings focus on quality comfort food made from locally sourced ingredients. The menu has evolved since its 2009 opening to include a variety of dietary options such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Signature plates like the seafood platter and fish and chips highlight the freshness of Orkney's catch, while inventive burgers and homemade desserts round out the selection. Portions are generous, and the kitchen caters to diverse tastes, ensuring something for everyone.

A Celebrated Selection of Drinks

The bar at Helgi's is renowned for its extensive range of local real ales, including several from Orkney’s Swannay Brewery, as well as a wide choice of malt whiskies from nearby distilleries like Highland Park. The cocktail menu features both classic favorites and original creations incorporating local spirits such as gin, vodka, and whisky. A carefully curated wine list complements the drinks, offering options from various countries alongside Prosecco and Champagne.

Community Hub with Regular Events

Beyond its food and drink, Helgi's serves as a lively social venue. It hosts weekly quiz nights and live music sessions that draw locals and visitors alike. The pub’s welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by friendly, attentive staff who contribute to its reputation as a community favorite. Its recognition by CAMRA as Northern Isles Pub of the Year multiple times underscores its standing in the local pub scene.

Accessibility and Ambience

Helgi's is wheelchair accessible, with facilities including accessible toilets and seating. Its cozy yet vibrant environment makes it suitable for a range of visitors—from solo travelers and couples to groups and families. The venue maintains an over-18s policy, ensuring a mature and relaxed setting. Open daily from midday until late, it accommodates both daytime dining and late-night socializing.

Practical Details for Visitors

Reservations are recommended during busy periods to secure a table, especially for dining upstairs with harbour views. The venue accepts credit and debit cards and offers free Wi-Fi. While prices are moderate, some patrons note that certain items, especially drinks, can be on the pricier side compared to mainland Scotland. Nonetheless, the quality of ingredients and the atmosphere justify the experience.