clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile
More Maps

21 Kid-Friendly Houston Restaurants That Grown-Ups Won’t Hate

Where to Eat in Houston’s Garden Oaks and Oak Forest Area

Dine Like a Local at These 22 Galveston Restaurants

More in Houston See more maps
A green 6-seat bar with dark bar stools, and green wall paint.
Bar No. 3 located inside Colombe d’Or in Montrose.
La Colombe d’Or

20 Essential Houston Cocktail Bars

Fancy hotel lounges, laid-back bars, dives, and everything in between

by Megha McSwain and Brittany Britto Garley Updated
View as Map
Bar No. 3 located inside Colombe d’Or in Montrose.
| La Colombe d’Or
by Megha McSwain and Brittany Britto Garley Updated

Houston is a drinker’s paradise, and with a bar scene as diverse as its citizens, the Bayou City offers everything from premium margaritas, fancy Old Fashioneds, and an assortment of G&T’s and Ranch Waters to craft beers and thoughtfully selected wines.

But where does one find the finest drinks in town? Let this map be your guide to Houston’s 20 essential cocktail bars, which range from revered cocktail haunts to casual, laid-back dives with quality libations.

Is your favorite cocktail bar missing from this map? Shout it out in the comments.

Read More

Johnny's Gold Brick

Copy Link

This Heights bar, open daily until 2 a.m., is a reliable neighborhood go-to with great music and a solid list of classic cocktails. Gimlets, Manhattans, daiquiris, and frozen margaritas are all $8 all the time.

2518 Yale St, Houston, TX 77008
(832) 582-5454
(832) 582-5454

Also featured in:

Lei Low

Copy Link

Don’t let Lei Low’s nondescript exterior fool you. Beyond the walls of this strip mall bar lie a dimly lit Polynesian hideaway decked out with beachy decor. Tiki cocktails, heavy with rum, are presented in whimsical vessels and will creep up on you. Proceed with caution.

6412 N Main St Ste C, Houston, TX
(713) 380-2968
(713) 380-2968

Also featured in:

Monkey's Tail

Copy Link

This Lindale Park hangout offers festive cocktails like the tequila-fueled Fresca Cantarito, which is made with blanco tequila, rum, tamarindo, strawberry, and ginger beer and presented in a clay pot, and frozens like the mango basil smash. The cantina-like vibe complements a great selection of bar food, including pizza, elote, and the famous Chango burger, served with Valentina mayo. 

5802 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77009
(713) 842-7188
(713) 842-7188
Bright pink frozen margarita garnished with lime
Dragonfruit margarita at Monkey’s Tail
Monkey’s Tail

Also featured in:

Eight Row Flint

Copy Link

Credited with being one of the first bars in the country to serve the Ranch Water cocktail, Eight Row Flint has a trio of options, including the OG and the Green Chile spiked with Serrano tincture. Find an array of frozen cocktails too. Eight Row Flint has frose, margaritas, G&Ts, and also offers a flight of all three.

1039 Yale St, Houston, TX
(713) 880-8463
(713) 880-8463

Also featured in:

Better Luck Tomorrow

Copy Link

From Bobby Heugel and Justin Yu, Better Luck Tomorrow brings thoughtfully built cocktails to the Heights, with a menu that evolves with the seasons. Find half-off daiquiris when it’s over 100 degrees, half-off Irish coffees when it’s under 40, and weekly food offerings like pasta and steak nights.

544 Yale St, Houston, TX 77007
(713) 802-0845
(713) 802-0845

Also featured in:

Permission

Copy Link

This luxurious bar is a whiskey lover’s dream. Featuring whiskeys from across the globe, Permission makes finding that elusive bottle of Weller, Blanton’s, or E.H. Taylor a little easier. There is also a bespoke gin and tonic for folks who might not be keen on brown liquor.

2920 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007
(713) 696-9883
(713) 696-9883

Also featured in:

The Ready Room

Copy Link

This moody Heights bar keeps a low profile with its discreet exterior signage, and instead lets its ambiance and classy cocktails do the talking. Fun Houston-inspired drinks like the Continental Zydeco, a mixture of gin, Pineau de Charentes, Raspberry Eau-de-vie, and orange bitters, and “house classics” like the espresso martini are bound to make you feel right at home. Come to drink, and stay for the entertainment. The bar has live jazz Thursday through Saturday with a cover charge.

2626 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77009

Also featured in:

Clarkwood

Copy Link

This sceney bar, housed in the historic Star Engraving Company building, is just over a year old, but has quickly become one of Houston’s hottest drinking spots. The building, which dates back to 1930, was built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, making it feel like a true escape within the city. Inside, an intimate bar with 14 seats anchors the minimalistic space, with loungey seating spread throughout. Go for the espresso martini, garnished with a toasted marshmallow.

3201 Allen Pkwy Suite 190, Houston, TX 77019
(346) 506-1294
(346) 506-1294
Clarkwood’s dimly lit interiors with white couches and round tables.
Clarkwood’s chic and minimalistic interior.
Clarkwood

Also featured in:

Julep

Copy Link

As the 2022 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Bar Program, Julep is the crown jewel of Houston’s cocktail bar scene. Try Julep classics like the Farmhouse Gibson, or spring for the $20 Ramos gin fizz, which is shaken vigorously to frothy perfection.

1919 Washington Ave Ste A, Houston, TX
(832) 831-2068
(832) 831-2068
bright orange cocktail in a coupe glass
The Swimming Upstream cocktail at Julep
Jenn Duncan

Also featured in:

Houston Watch Company

Copy Link

Located just a stone’s throw from the many bars on Main Street, Houston Watch Company is a standout among the numerous places to drink downtown. Situated quietly on the street level of the Southern Pacific Railroad Building, which dates back to 1910, the bar was home to a jeweler for 70 years and showcases original details from the space and its historic past. Order a little something on the rocks and peruse the two-story venue.

913 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77002

Also featured in:

Captain Foxheart's Bad News Bar & Spirits Lodge

Copy Link

With an impressive whiskey selection and a patio overlooking Downtown’s Main Street, Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar feels like a cozy neighborhood bar in the epicenter of the city. Seats at the long, narrow bar make a great place to belly up and converse and are coveted come 5 p.m. when the downtown work day winds down.

308 1/2 Main St, Houston, TX

Also featured in:

Dean's Downtown

Copy Link

Dean’s has a historic past, with the Main Street building it’s housed in dating back to the late 1800s. Naturally, it lends itself to being considered one of the most haunted places in Houston, but whether you go for supernatural sightings or just a solid, boozy evening, experiencing Dean’s should be part of your Houston bucket list.

316 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
(832) 564-0918
(832) 564-0918

Also featured in:

Bandista

Copy Link

The journey to Bandista is half the fun of visiting. Located discreetly behind a bookcase deep within the Four Seasons Hotel, this hideaway is one of the most exclusive places to enjoy a drink downtown. While you can certainly enjoy a glass of wine or a simple liqueur, guests are encouraged to explore the awe-inspiring cocktail menu. Here, cocktails ignite the senses, like the rum-based Strawberry Fields For Now, which is fragrant with balsamic and Fernet-Branca and arrives with a goat cheese biscuit.

1300 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010
(713) 297-1340
(713) 297-1340
A dark red cocktail in a short glass with a biscuit for a garnish
The Strawberry Fields For Now cocktail at Bandista
Kirsten Gilliam

Also featured in:

Miss Carousel

Copy Link

Miss Carousel has the vibe of your friend’s super cool industrial loft, but with an extensive list of spirits and interesting cocktails. Try the Birds & the Bees, made with gin, Italicus bergamotto, yellow chartreuse, honey, and egg white.

1201 St Emanuel St, Houston, TX 77003
(832) 582-7330
(832) 582-7330

Also featured in:

Emilia’s Havana

Copy Link

What once was a storage closet inside the building that houses the Annie Restaurant & Bar, has since been transformed into a lavish speakeasy, with hidden access, reminiscent of a 1950s-style Cuban club. Set apart from other cocktail bars, Emilia’s offers two seatings per night, during which guests may enjoy live music by the house band. The cocktail menu is curated by James Beard award-winning mixologist, Alba Huerta, and includes riffs on Cuban-inspired cocktails like the white rum-fueled Hemingway or an Old Cuban made with Bacardi 10-year rum. A hefty food menu is available too, with indulgences like king crab croquettes and papas with caviar.

1800 Post Oak Blvd Suite 6170, Houston, TX 77056
(713) 804-3317
(713) 804-3317
The peach and orange interiors of Emilia’s Havana, complete with tables, chairs, and a musical stage.
Emilia’s Havana is reminiscent of a Cuban bar.
Jenn Duncan

Also featured in:

More in Maps

Poison Girl

Copy Link

This no-frills, budget-friendly bar in the heart of Montrose packs plenty of personality within its narrow space, with a row of working pinball machines, a backyard-style patio, and tall walls bedecked with paintings of naked women. The bourbon list is strong, but the bartenders won’t judge if you stick with a Lone Star beer or a plain ol’ vodka and soda.

1641 Westheimer Rd Ste B, Houston, TX
(713) 527-9929
(713) 527-9929

Also featured in:

Anvil Bar & Refuge

Copy Link

The patron saint of Houston’s cocktail bar scene, Bobby Heugel’s Anvil delivers expertly crafted cocktails in one of Houston’s hippest neighborhoods. The Montrose stalwart has some of the city’s most talented mixologists manning the bar, and is perfect for a first date or a friendly hang. Try something from the ever-changing list of eight originals, or stick with a classic, like the French 75. If you’ve been there, drank that, try Heugel’s new, slightly more upscale sister concept, Refuge, located right upstairs.

1424 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX
(713) 523-1622
(713) 523-1622
Anvil’s bar with a row of bar stools
Anvil Bar & Refuge is a Montrose mainstay
Anvil/Facebook

Also featured in:

Bar No. 3 - La Colombe d'Or

Copy Link

Visiting this buzzy hideaway tucked within the historic La Colombe d’Or Hotel in Montrose is like taking a step back in time. The old-world atmosphere is complemented with patterned wallpaper and modern decor. The attractive parlor offers only six coveted seats at the bar, but has plenty of comfortable lounge seating to cozy up to. Pair cocktails like the vodka-fueled Yellow Spain with bar snacks like marinated olives or East Coast oysters, and if you’re looking for a full dining experience, the hotel’s restaurant Tonight & Tomorrow is just steps away.

3410 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
(713) 524-7999
(713) 524-7999
A dark spirit cocktail in a short rocks glass garnished with thin green apple slices.
The Swordmaster cocktail at Bar No. 3.
La Colombe d’Or

Wooster's Garden

Copy Link

There are plenty of places that serve Insta-worthy cocktails, but few compare to Wooster’s Garden. The relaxed Midtown hangout is meticulous when it comes to crafting a drink, and in its presentation. There are a total of 56 drinks on the menu, including non-alcoholic choices and house shots, and all syrups and tinctures used are house made. From pastel-hued mocktails to tiki drinks topped with burning lime garnishes, you’ll want to keep your camera-clicking finger ready.

3315 Milam St, Houston, TX 77006
(713) 520-0015
(713) 520-0015
A pale orange cocktail in a slim goblet, garnished with a star-shaped satsuma.
The Dios Mio, Becky cocktail at Wooster’s is made with Del Maguey Vida, house Becherovka, and egg white.
Dustyn Zenner

Also featured in:

Grand Prize Bar

Copy Link

The Christmas lights twinkle year-round at Grand Prize, a beloved Montrose bar located in a two-story house adjacent to Bell Park. Throw back drinks on one of three patios, or take in a game of pool before settling in for a bite to eat. The bar’s Trophy Case Kitchen features a revolving list of food vendors slinging burgers, tacos, and more.

1010 Banks St, Houston, TX
(713) 526-4566
(713) 526-4566

Also featured in:

More in Maps

© 2023 Vox Media, Inc. All rights reserved.
Link copied to the clipboard.

Johnny's Gold Brick

2518 Yale St, Houston, TX 77008

This Heights bar, open daily until 2 a.m., is a reliable neighborhood go-to with great music and a solid list of classic cocktails. Gimlets, Manhattans, daiquiris, and frozen margaritas are all $8 all the time.

2518 Yale St, Houston, TX 77008
(832) 582-5454
(832) 582-5454

Lei Low

6412 N Main St Ste C, Houston, TX

Don’t let Lei Low’s nondescript exterior fool you. Beyond the walls of this strip mall bar lie a dimly lit Polynesian hideaway decked out with beachy decor. Tiki cocktails, heavy with rum, are presented in whimsical vessels and will creep up on you. Proceed with caution.

6412 N Main St Ste C, Houston, TX
(713) 380-2968
(713) 380-2968

Monkey's Tail

5802 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77009

This Lindale Park hangout offers festive cocktails like the tequila-fueled Fresca Cantarito, which is made with blanco tequila, rum, tamarindo, strawberry, and ginger beer and presented in a clay pot, and frozens like the mango basil smash. The cantina-like vibe complements a great selection of bar food, including pizza, elote, and the famous Chango burger, served with Valentina mayo. 

5802 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77009
(713) 842-7188
(713) 842-7188
Bright pink frozen margarita garnished with lime
Dragonfruit margarita at Monkey’s Tail
Monkey’s Tail

Eight Row Flint

1039 Yale St, Houston, TX

Credited with being one of the first bars in the country to serve the Ranch Water cocktail, Eight Row Flint has a trio of options, including the OG and the Green Chile spiked with Serrano tincture. Find an array of frozen cocktails too. Eight Row Flint has frose, margaritas, G&Ts, and also offers a flight of all three.

1039 Yale St, Houston, TX
(713) 880-8463
(713) 880-8463

Better Luck Tomorrow

544 Yale St, Houston, TX 77007

From Bobby Heugel and Justin Yu, Better Luck Tomorrow brings thoughtfully built cocktails to the Heights, with a menu that evolves with the seasons. Find half-off daiquiris when it’s over 100 degrees, half-off Irish coffees when it’s under 40, and weekly food offerings like pasta and steak nights.

544 Yale St, Houston, TX 77007
(713) 802-0845
(713) 802-0845

Permission

2920 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007

This luxurious bar is a whiskey lover’s dream. Featuring whiskeys from across the globe, Permission makes finding that elusive bottle of Weller, Blanton’s, or E.H. Taylor a little easier. There is also a bespoke gin and tonic for folks who might not be keen on brown liquor.

2920 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77007
(713) 696-9883
(713) 696-9883

The Ready Room

2626 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77009

This moody Heights bar keeps a low profile with its discreet exterior signage, and instead lets its ambiance and classy cocktails do the talking. Fun Houston-inspired drinks like the Continental Zydeco, a mixture of gin, Pineau de Charentes, Raspberry Eau-de-vie, and orange bitters, and “house classics” like the espresso martini are bound to make you feel right at home. Come to drink, and stay for the entertainment. The bar has live jazz Thursday through Saturday with a cover charge.

2626 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77009

Clarkwood

3201 Allen Pkwy Suite 190, Houston, TX 77019

This sceney bar, housed in the historic Star Engraving Company building, is just over a year old, but has quickly become one of Houston’s hottest drinking spots. The building, which dates back to 1930, was built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, making it feel like a true escape within the city. Inside, an intimate bar with 14 seats anchors the minimalistic space, with loungey seating spread throughout. Go for the espresso martini, garnished with a toasted marshmallow.

3201 Allen Pkwy Suite 190, Houston, TX 77019
(346) 506-1294
(346) 506-1294
Clarkwood’s dimly lit interiors with white couches and round tables.
Clarkwood’s chic and minimalistic interior.
Clarkwood

Julep

1919 Washington Ave Ste A, Houston, TX

As the 2022 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Bar Program, Julep is the crown jewel of Houston’s cocktail bar scene. Try Julep classics like the Farmhouse Gibson, or spring for the $20 Ramos gin fizz, which is shaken vigorously to frothy perfection.

1919 Washington Ave Ste A, Houston, TX
(832) 831-2068
(832) 831-2068
bright orange cocktail in a coupe glass
The Swimming Upstream cocktail at Julep
Jenn Duncan

Houston Watch Company

913 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77002

Located just a stone’s throw from the many bars on Main Street, Houston Watch Company is a standout among the numerous places to drink downtown. Situated quietly on the street level of the Southern Pacific Railroad Building, which dates back to 1910, the bar was home to a jeweler for 70 years and showcases original details from the space and its historic past. Order a little something on the rocks and peruse the two-story venue.

913 Franklin St, Houston, TX 77002

Captain Foxheart's Bad News Bar & Spirits Lodge

308 1/2 Main St, Houston, TX

With an impressive whiskey selection and a patio overlooking Downtown’s Main Street, Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar feels like a cozy neighborhood bar in the epicenter of the city. Seats at the long, narrow bar make a great place to belly up and converse and are coveted come 5 p.m. when the downtown work day winds down.

308 1/2 Main St, Houston, TX

Dean's Downtown

316 Main St, Houston, TX 77002

Dean’s has a historic past, with the Main Street building it’s housed in dating back to the late 1800s. Naturally, it lends itself to being considered one of the most haunted places in Houston, but whether you go for supernatural sightings or just a solid, boozy evening, experiencing Dean’s should be part of your Houston bucket list.

316 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
(832) 564-0918
(832) 564-0918

Bandista

1300 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010

The journey to Bandista is half the fun of visiting. Located discreetly behind a bookcase deep within the Four Seasons Hotel, this hideaway is one of the most exclusive places to enjoy a drink downtown. While you can certainly enjoy a glass of wine or a simple liqueur, guests are encouraged to explore the awe-inspiring cocktail menu. Here, cocktails ignite the senses, like the rum-based Strawberry Fields For Now, which is fragrant with balsamic and Fernet-Branca and arrives with a goat cheese biscuit.

1300 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010
(713) 297-1340
(713) 297-1340
A dark red cocktail in a short glass with a biscuit for a garnish
The Strawberry Fields For Now cocktail at Bandista
Kirsten Gilliam

Miss Carousel

1201 St Emanuel St, Houston, TX 77003

Miss Carousel has the vibe of your friend’s super cool industrial loft, but with an extensive list of spirits and interesting cocktails. Try the Birds & the Bees, made with gin, Italicus bergamotto, yellow chartreuse, honey, and egg white.

1201 St Emanuel St, Houston, TX 77003
(832) 582-7330
(832) 582-7330

Emilia’s Havana

1800 Post Oak Blvd Suite 6170, Houston, TX 77056

What once was a storage closet inside the building that houses the Annie Restaurant & Bar, has since been transformed into a lavish speakeasy, with hidden access, reminiscent of a 1950s-style Cuban club. Set apart from other cocktail bars, Emilia’s offers two seatings per night, during which guests may enjoy live music by the house band. The cocktail menu is curated by James Beard award-winning mixologist, Alba Huerta, and includes riffs on Cuban-inspired cocktails like the white rum-fueled Hemingway or an Old Cuban made with Bacardi 10-year rum. A hefty food menu is available too, with indulgences like king crab croquettes and papas with caviar.

1800 Post Oak Blvd Suite 6170, Houston, TX 77056
(713) 804-3317
(713) 804-3317
The peach and orange interiors of Emilia’s Havana, complete with tables, chairs, and a musical stage.
Emilia’s Havana is reminiscent of a Cuban bar.
Jenn Duncan

Related Maps

Poison Girl

1641 Westheimer Rd Ste B, Houston, TX

This no-frills, budget-friendly bar in the heart of Montrose packs plenty of personality within its narrow space, with a row of working pinball machines, a backyard-style patio, and tall walls bedecked with paintings of naked women. The bourbon list is strong, but the bartenders won’t judge if you stick with a Lone Star beer or a plain ol’ vodka and soda.

1641 Westheimer Rd Ste B, Houston, TX
(713) 527-9929
(713) 527-9929

Anvil Bar & Refuge

1424 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX

The patron saint of Houston’s cocktail bar scene, Bobby Heugel’s Anvil delivers expertly crafted cocktails in one of Houston’s hippest neighborhoods. The Montrose stalwart has some of the city’s most talented mixologists manning the bar, and is perfect for a first date or a friendly hang. Try something from the ever-changing list of eight originals, or stick with a classic, like the French 75. If you’ve been there, drank that, try Heugel’s new, slightly more upscale sister concept, Refuge, located right upstairs.

1424 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX
(713) 523-1622
(713) 523-1622
Anvil’s bar with a row of bar stools
Anvil Bar & Refuge is a Montrose mainstay
Anvil/Facebook

Bar No. 3 - La Colombe d'Or

3410 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006

Visiting this buzzy hideaway tucked within the historic La Colombe d’Or Hotel in Montrose is like taking a step back in time. The old-world atmosphere is complemented with patterned wallpaper and modern decor. The attractive parlor offers only six coveted seats at the bar, but has plenty of comfortable lounge seating to cozy up to. Pair cocktails like the vodka-fueled Yellow Spain with bar snacks like marinated olives or East Coast oysters, and if you’re looking for a full dining experience, the hotel’s restaurant Tonight & Tomorrow is just steps away.

3410 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
(713) 524-7999
(713) 524-7999
A dark spirit cocktail in a short rocks glass garnished with thin green apple slices.
The Swordmaster cocktail at Bar No. 3.
La Colombe d’Or

Wooster's Garden

3315 Milam St, Houston, TX 77006

There are plenty of places that serve Insta-worthy cocktails, but few compare to Wooster’s Garden. The relaxed Midtown hangout is meticulous when it comes to crafting a drink, and in its presentation. There are a total of 56 drinks on the menu, including non-alcoholic choices and house shots, and all syrups and tinctures used are house made. From pastel-hued mocktails to tiki drinks topped with burning lime garnishes, you’ll want to keep your camera-clicking finger ready.

3315 Milam St, Houston, TX 77006
(713) 520-0015
(713) 520-0015
A pale orange cocktail in a slim goblet, garnished with a star-shaped satsuma.
The Dios Mio, Becky cocktail at Wooster’s is made with Del Maguey Vida, house Becherovka, and egg white.
Dustyn Zenner

Grand Prize Bar

1010 Banks St, Houston, TX

The Christmas lights twinkle year-round at Grand Prize, a beloved Montrose bar located in a two-story house adjacent to Bell Park. Throw back drinks on one of three patios, or take in a game of pool before settling in for a bite to eat. The bar’s Trophy Case Kitchen features a revolving list of food vendors slinging burgers, tacos, and more.

1010 Banks St, Houston, TX
(713) 526-4566
(713) 526-4566

Related Maps