The Etro Lounge is one of Houston's best places to get your 80's dance fix. Spread out over two floors, the place has a chic and modern decor. Not only will you find your favorite 80's hits playing here, but there's usually video accompaniment to transport you to that era of neon teased hair. Etro attracts a crowd that knows how to have fun on the dance floor.
Featured in listicles of popular publications time and again, if you haven't paid a visit to Wooster's Garden's yet, you are definitely missing out on a memorable time. There is a lot of skill required in crafting a perfect cocktail and this place has seemed to master the art. Some of the popular, cheekily named cocktails served here are Don't Nori about it, Jessica Rabbit and Booze Cruise and classics like Mimosa and Bloody Mary are all-time favorites. Apart from cocktails, if you are a lover of quality spirits, their distinctive collection of Bourbon Whiskey, Rye Whiskey, Jamaican Rum, mezcal, and cognac are nothing short of impressive. Delicious bar munchies such as Pretzels, Bone Marrow and Cheeseburger are equally delectable and go well with your drinks.
Located in the Midtown, Khon's is the perfect after-work hangout. They serve beer, wine, and coffee in a laid-back atmosphere. It's a great spot to go for a quiet night with a few friends. They have plenty of surprising drinks in stock from all over the world. Take a load off and play darts while shooting the breeze with the friendly bartenders, or sit and enjoy an eye-opening coffee while finishing up some work.
This eclectic drink stop is a throwback to very old times, from the antique furniture and delicate drinking vessels to the meticulous mixing of their old-fashioned spirits. This intimate bar is always crowded at night. Standing bar-side is best to view the true mix masters in motion. For those not keen on bitters, vermouth, gin and the possible egg white, Anvil offers a dizzying assortment of bottled and tap beers. They also feature high quality bar fare to stave off any hunger. Patrons can enjoy meat and cheese plates, soft pretzels and small pita sandwiches.
When you think of a typical, road side ice house and you don't picture the West Alabama Ice House, then stopping by is an imperative so you can see what an real ice house is. Located just East of Shepherd, this open air bar provides simplicity in its offerings, and that is what makes the joint so successful. If you want beer, if you want to visit, if you want to sit on a picnic table and watch commuters struggle by wistfully looking in, maybe some live music and a hot-dog, then this is definitely the place. -Richard Hannah
Built on a reputation of an excellent selection of wines, 13 Celsius is a must visit for all the wine connoisseurs out there. The driving force behind their unique name comes from the fact that all their precious bottles of wine are stored in a cellar which is adjusted to 13 degree Celsius in order to present it to the customers at just the right temperature. Set in a rustic and cozy space with an open courtyard, this intimate bar is perfect to treat your taste buds to exquisite wines without any unnecessary intrusion. The menu here mainly comprises cheese platters and meat dishes that pair nicely with their fine wines. You can also stock bottles from the tempting selection in the wine department.
Lawless is a swanky bar located within the Rice Hotel. The interiors are richly furnished with dark woods, leather seating, and chandeliers. The brick-walled room is a pictorial journey of all those who have fought for freedom and liberty such as Teddy Roosevelt and Mahatma Gandhi. The room opens onto a terrace-balcony with views of Downtown Houston. The drinks menu serves wine, beer and classic and contemporary cocktails with delicious American bar bites and finger food.
Submit to the charms of Appalachian moonshine and smooth whiskey cocktails, served in quirky mason jars. The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar plays tribute to Southern American heritage through their selection of classic eats such as Shrimp and Grits, Smoked Trout Crostinis and Deviled Eggs. Booth seating as well as wooden tables and chairs dominate the main dining area, whereas a bar-top with wood finishing manages to catch the eye. The atmosphere inclines toward lumberjack-chic, with wood stumps decorating the walls. An outdoor patio with picnic-style tables are perfect for when the summer breeze blows.
The Bovine & Barley is a lively, upbeat bar with more than 30 beers and real ales on tap and casks. With neon lights displaying HTX and drinking quotes by famous personalities on the exposed brick walls, the decor is quite funky. Seating includes a mix of comfortable coffee bean bags, high bar stools and booths. Local food favorites you can opt for are the Bovine Burger and B&B’s Rib Eye when you start to feel hungry. If you are looking for a vibrant bar atmosphere without compromising on the quality of the food, Bovine & Barley is the place to go.
If tequila is your poison, El Big Bad is the place to be. The cantina serves over 70 flavored, handmade tequilas that change as per the season, along with craft beers, margaritas and other cocktails, and Mexican bar bites. The interiors have eye-catching murals, while a rooftop patio offers an impressive view of the Historic District. This place is also open for brunch, and offers exciting happy hour specials.
The Commoner is an upbeat, animated bar serving an extensive selection of draft beers, wines by the glass and house cocktails. At this funky bar you can sip on the Southside or the Strawberry Fields while playing a game of darts. Seating includes a mix of bar stools, ottomans and regular chairs. If you are looking at value for money, consider visiting during the happy hours and sip on drinks as cheap as USD 3. While you are here, you can also head upstairs and check out The Boulevardier, which is quite a lively lounge.