Downtown's State Bar & Lounge Is Closing This Saturday

Historic downtown establishment The State Bar & Lounge will be closing this Saturday. CultureMap reports that a manager for the place confirmed the rumor, noting that State Bar "has a storied history, as it once housed the Houston Press Club and was a gathering spot for reporters long before computers were invented." Located on the second floor of the Rice Lofts, the expansive balcony and signage have been practically synonymous with the downtown scene for years. The mahogany-lined interior served as the perfect backdrop for a well-heeled set to enjoy after-work Balvenie and cigars in an old-Houston atmosphere. With a fixed customer base, it's not likely that the booming Main Street super-block of new bars hurt owners Valerie and Max McElroy's business.

They haven't released a reason for the shutter, but it may have something to do with The Rice Hotel's recent sale to a Dallas-based development group. No word yet on what will happen with the Rice Hotel Capitol Club furniture and memorabilia that still outfits the space. At least "sister pub" McElroy's is still alive and well on Richmond.
· The State Bar & Lounge [Official Site]
· All Other Shutter Reports [-EHOU-]

[Photo: Wolfgang/Google Maps]