Top Rated Nightlife in Houston

This oasis from the hustle and bustle of downtown is perfect after work or a day in court. Downstairs sports a typical Irish pub atmosphere-complete with actual Irish kitsch and friendly bartenders willing to lend an ear after pulling a pint. Dartboards, pool tables, and balcony with fantastic Main St. views are just up the stairs. Start the evening here before hitting Minute Maid Park or the Toyota Center for major league sporting events; or before catching a show in the Theatre District. Need a little something to hold off the hunger pangs? Try any of the many delicious sandwiches-like the excellent pulled pork sandwich that practically melts on contact. Be sure to check the site for the latest happy hour specials. - JoAnn Takasaki

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.

An elegant venue housed inside JW Marriott Houston Downtown, Main Kitchen has won awards for its great breakfast options and burgers as well as for the best chef. Executive Chef Erin Smith and her team have put together creative American recipes, handcrafted cocktails and exceptional wines on the menu. In fact, this place is best known for food and wine tastings, cocktail making and cooking demonstrations, and interaction of diners with local farmers and winemakers. The menu varies seasonally to incorporate fresh ingredients into all the dishes. The kitchen has served items like Parker House Rolls with Whipped Honey Butter, Ale Braised Pork Sausage and Strawberry Sherbet in the past. The wine list majorly features selections from France and California, although you can sample Portuguese varieties as well.