Housed in the oldest building in Houston, La Carafe caters to an eclectic mix of artistic and professional types. Musicians claim the jukebox has the best selection in all of Houston, and you will often see people dancing on the narrow floor beside it. This romantic spot is often the end to the perfect date. It is strictly a wine and beer bar, so you'll have to go elsewhere if you want other types of alcohol.
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.
Like the Austin original, Houston's Continental Club sports the green and pink neon sign out front, the steel sign with the 1950s script lettering behind the stage and the "Mercury Man" hanging over the door frame. The club features home grown talent with roots, jazz and rock artists booked regularly. The main room has a capacity of 200 and is decorated with murals by Jacque de Lamar which depict scenes of Venice, Rome and Paris. Affixed behind the bar are pictures from the club's early years, when the Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller orchestras played there. The back room holds a 22-foot shuffleboard, along with pool tables and a second bar.
Numbers is one of the oldest and most popular venues for alternative music in Houston. You'll find a diverse crowd dancing to 80's music or goth favorites. Don't be surprised if you see people here wearing Halloween-inspired attire. They sometimes have live performances from groundbreaking artists. On nights that don't feature a live act, you still can dance the night away to music and videos from Houston DJs.
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.
The Boulevardier is a swanky lounge located right above The Commoner. While you are here, sink into a comfortable arm chair and relish the Ricotta Washed Bombay Thai Coffee or the Drastic Drip as you meet new people or converse with old friends. However, before you decide to try out this place, make sure to keep a look out for their funky theme nights. From cocktail drinking competitions to Animal Invasion Nights, you are sure to love this lounge if you have a heart for adventure.
Located in downtown, Dean's Downtown is housed in a historical building that was originally built as a department store in 1893. While remodelling this venue into a bar, it was ensured the history of the building was retained including its label name and vintage charm. With its oakwood furniture and comfy couches, Dean's Downtown creates an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. Sip on their excellently prepared cocktail concoctions or choose from their curated list of craft beer while munching on delicious pub fare. Live music events are also held here occasionally.
If you are in downtown Houston, and feel like relaxing over some tapas and beer, then Batanga is the place to go. Located in close proximity to the Market Square Park, this cool and casual restaurant serves up some fantastic cocktails and bites, in a laid-back ambiance. With a huge patio of 3600 square feet (334.45 square meter), Batanga seems to attract many hungry tourists and locals. With happy hours being available on drinks, this place remains choc-a-bloc during evenings. Grilled Panela Cheese, Duck Confit Arepas, Cuban Mojo Chicken Skewers and Grilled Hangar Steak remain to be popular dishes among most of their customers. A good range of cocktails accompany the delicious food, while Thai Me Up, One Beat Samba and Patio Cooler remain to be the crowd-pleasers.
Judges, newspaper reporters, college students and artists all rub elbows here at Warren's Inn on a nightly basis. The dim lighting and over-sized mirrors may inspire an initial chuckle, but everything about the place seems to grow on guests. Grab a table and enjoy the jukebox. You will hear everything played from Tijuana Brass to 10,000 Maniacs. The cocktails are masterful, especially the award-winning martinis, and the draft beer comes flecked with ice.
L&L Bar is located at Hotel Icon on the Main Street. The bar offers a distinct experience, both in terms of ambiance and drinks. The high-vaulted ceilings beautified with painted arches form a intimate environment. Taste some contemporary craft cocktails, regional draught beer collection and one of the best wines at the bar. Stop by at the bar on every Sunday for beer and cocktail specials.
Housed in the oldest building in Houston, La Carafe caters to an eclectic mix of artistic and professional types. Musicians claim the jukebox has the best selection in all of Houston, and you will often see people dancing on the narrow floor beside it. This romantic spot is often the end to the perfect date. It is strictly a wine and beer bar, so you'll have to go elsewhere if you want other types of alcohol.