50 Best Cocktail Bars in Houston

“Anvil Bar is one of those places that just gets it right. The second you walk in, the vibe is on point chill, fun, and full of good people. If you're looking to have a great time, be around awesome energy, and sip on some unreal cocktails, this is the spot. Trust me on this one-no notes needed.
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The drinks are of the highest level, and the service is seriously top-tier. Massive shoutout to Mabel, Corey, and Manny the man🧍‍♂️ and the whole team. They’re all super professional, but still keep things relaxed and fun. You feel welcomed, taken care of, and honestly, like part of the place.

There’s this younger, fresh energy that makes you want to stay all night. Whether you're out with friends or just stopping by, Anvil always hits. Keep it up, guys-you're doing something special. Can’t wait to come back.

Best,
Manny the honey 🍯🙏“

“Great cocktail bar. Excellent selection of liquors.“

“Hands down the best sushi in H-Town. The Sashimi Sampler (and honestly everything else we had) was superb. The server gave recommendations and the otoro was to die for. Beer, sake, and whiskey were excellent. This is the place, hands down, no debate.“

“Had an absolutely amazing experience there for Brunch today! We took our 97 year old Aunt and the staff treated her like a queen! our waiter was so was AWESOME! I had to call the Manager over to brag about him! Food was creative and delicious! I highly recommend!“

“We had an amazing experience at Balboa! Starting with the complimentary valet, which was quick and friendly service. The entry to the restaurant was super nice and a great photo opportunity spot. Kyrah took excellent care of us during our visit, and we loved the team style service. It felt like we had a team serving us, and they are so quick and quiet that you can continue to hold conversations and visit but someone is always near if you need anything. Kyrah took special care to "refresh" our cocktail glasses when we finished about half of our drinks, and made excellent recommendations. The food was absolutely amazing. Our table tried the fried shrimp, oysters, spicy ahi tuna roll, crab cake, Post Oak ribeye with pureed potatoes, salmon with the most delicious and unique salad, and heirloom tomatoes. The cocktails were delicious, including the Gold Rush, Rum Dum, and el Guero. The restaurant vibe is romantic but fun and sophisticated and has an open kitchen concept where you can see the food being made if you care to watch. I will most definitely be back and can confidently recommend this place to anyone!“

“Wonderful menu, service and location. Highly recommended.“

“Amazing food! The flavors just explode in your mouth. Pork vindaloo and roasted cauliflower were the favorites. Service was spectacular.“

“Wow just wow! Very nice romantic place in Houston that I honestly would like to go back to try everything on the menu. The food was excellent along with the presentation. The staff was superb and very elegant.“

“Bar Bludorn is hands down one of the best local restaurants in Houston! From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm, cozy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The bar is perfect for a relaxed drink, and the service is always top-notch. The food is absolutely phenomenal—each dish is crafted with care and bursting with flavor. Whether you're in the mood for something light or indulging in their delicious steak, every bite is a true delight. It's the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a special dinner. Highly recommend this gem for anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Houston“

“First time guests, but will be back soon. Great place.“

“Wild is a very dreamy/Cozy coffee shop, CBD bar. Very Relaxing.“

“I’ve been to Flight Club a few times and it’s always been well managed, fun, with great food and service.

Parking, however is no longer free in the garage. The sign was quite inconspicuous (on the floor by the exit??) which led to people getting tickets from “Parking & Transportation Compliance Inc.” from Florida. I believe they have added pay to park signs on the pillars inside the garage now, so be sure to scan them or you’ll get a $45-$85 fine.“

“Love this bar! It’s my new regular spot“

“had a great time on my 1st visit here! staff was amazing and very versed in their rum. I traded swizzle sticks with the bartenders! thank yall for a great experience!“

“Classy, intimate vibes at this cocktail lounge! Upon entering, you were seated with a glass of water and warm towel to clean your hands. I inquired about the happy hour, which they no longer have, but my server was kind enough to still honor the deal since they silently discontinued the deal without announcing it on social media. We got the Rolls-Royce martini and best seller classic cocktail evergreen (original price $16 each, but we got them for $8 each)! Both tasted clean and strong. Definitely recommend this place for a date night or girls night!“

“3rd best ramen in Houston. Can handle bigger crowds“

“My first trip to Rosewater was this past weekend. The staff was fun and knowledgeable. I am new to Rye Whisky, but their recommendation sold me. The Old Fashion was superb! I think I might have to visit again soon!😜👍🥰“

“Great cocktails & staff are very friendly!“

“They have the Best drinks and they cost from $6 -$12. Which is not bad at all. I had the pleasure of meeting TJ and he made this drink. Man when i tell you I couldn't even finish it !! This place is a must go, oh and if you do be sure to check out crave burgers, it's a burger place but baby they have the best fried chicken !!“

“this place is such a vibe. The ambience, the drinks and the amazing staff. Special thank you to Ian for going above and beyond to ensure such a pleasant experience :)“

“Best cocktail bar in Houston, by far!“

“Was my fav downtown spot when I visited Houston recently for the first time. We stayed in the hotel and the views of the city were incredible!“

“MATT my bartender was amazing“

“Super cool hang out with funky vibes and awesome bartenders. Their whiskey selection ain't too shabby either!“

“Amazing food! Great atmosphere! Welcoming and great service!“

“Cozy intimate space, well-crafted drinks, and great service.

Kanpai club, hidden next to everyone's favorite handroll sushi bar is a great place for happy hour or meeting up friends in a small group. And when I say small - I mean small, I think capacity is less than 20 for the entire space. Think a tiny Japanese izakaya without the outdoor seating.

Extensive liquor selection, though some of the rare japanese whisky can get pricey (I'm looking at you Hibiki 21 at 350 a pour). Cocktail menu has a nice selection of Japanese and globally inspired drinks. Didn't have any I didn't like,“

“The dude filing the racial discrimination lawsuit is a personal injury attorney. Get the picture?“

“Fun atmosphere and unique drinks.“

“Been coming here for almost 20 years and a great place in the neighborhood. Reasonable priced drinks, steak nite on Thursdays, Karaoke 3 nights a week, drink Specials and Book your party here!“

“Excellent evening for 4 adults during out of town visit from friends! We enjoyed the drink selection and especially dinner. We were surprised to have such fresh food and gluten free options! Totally recommend for group fun indoors on a rainy day😎“

“Cozy bar separate from restaurant, nestled in the Colombe d'Or hotel. Set up best accomoddates an intimate date night setting or even solo. Servers are accommodating and professional.

If going non-alcoholic, definitely try the penumbra! Esp if you appreciate ginger ?“

“Great for small private party! VERY yummy unique cocktails! And there is a SPA downstairs!“

“I went during happy hour, they have some really good deals. Lamb chops, Fried mushrooms & Smoked Gouda Macaroni: 10/10❕Collard greens 6/10, Lemon drop 8/10🍋🍸. The food came out within 10 minutes & it was fresh 🤯 The bartenders weren’t as welcoming, they seemed to be annoyed to be there & like they didn’t want to be bothered, even the person beside me said the same. Definitely kind of threw off the vibe but I made the best of it laughing with the patrons beside me. The manager was personable & very friendly. I had an issue and she was right on top of it.“

“It’s was great experience , It’s an excellent food hall/bar, the food selection is an international mix- so many great choices to choose from, not to mention they have great parking!! A must go too and give it a try, I promise you won’t be disappointed. I had the bulgogi rice bowl and the kimchi fries a must try no regrets here lol, from Seoulside Wings and Rice Tried out the dessert strawberry tres leches from Luv ‘em, it was ok it was a little overpriced in my opinion. $8.50 for slice Over all experience was excellent!“

“Came here the first time and I could not find it, had to drive around once. Parking can be difficult during peak hours. The place was cozy and cute. The bartender was friendly and helpful. Prompt service and attentive. We sat outside and it was great!. We came at an off-peak hours and it was relaxing. The drink prices were very reasonable. Appetizers were delicious and reasonably priced. I really liked this place, good first impression for a cozy bar.“

“The best! Exquisite food, service and ambiance. Great value for the experience. Can't wait to go back!“

“An excellent restaurant that provides a great experience, good food, and exceptional customer service.“

“Love this place really laid back and friendly staff“

“Julep offers some of the most amazing & unique cocktails! Their whiskey selection is incredible and the ambiance is perfect for a date night or fun time with friends. Ample parking and valet available. We were not able to try their food as we were told the kitchen is closed on Sundays - however, this seems like a spot mostly for cocktails anyways. I would definitely go back so continue drinking my way through their extensive cocktail list.“

“Once again Turner's Cut outdid themselves. The food is of course phenomenal but honestly for us the best part is the staff and the relationships we have built. In this day and age it is so nice to be recognized, remembered and seen by the service industry. We cannot recommend this restaurant and its staff highly enough. Betsy, Richard, Cecil, Brittany and Royston you guys are the absolute best! We will see you in about 4 weeks for the oldest boy's 23rd bday and the youngest boy's college send off! I might need some extra martinis! Thank you for your intentionality and service! Still our favorite steak in Houston! GO SEE THEM!“

“Thanks to Cheryl the event coordinator for making my 22nd birthday special she’s is so amazing if you have a big family and wants to celebrate anything come here!!
Food was a 10/10 highly recommended
Service was a 10/10
Drinks was amazing 10/10
Nice looking restaurant please visit here!!“

“What a welcoming place! 🤩🤩“

“Cant give enough stars to this place! Incredible food-both delicious and nutritious as well as unique and original dishes. AND great service by the awesome Staff. thanks so much to you all for a wonderful meal and experience.“

“This is definitely one of the best place to have breakfast in downtown Houston. The food was well prepared and I absolutely loved it. I was served by Ms. Toni, and by goodness, she is excellent at what she does and her recommendation was spot on. I definitely recommend and will be back again.The ambience is cosy and tastefully put together.“

“LumbarJust celebrated a birthday and had a fabulous meal and outstanding service--will be back soon--a great Ion location.“

“Houston history throughout the place“

“Delicious food! everything is good! The service is great! I'm so in love with this place! 🇲🇽🇲🇽🌮 Thank you Brandon!“

“Fun place to have a drink and start the night for some east austin fun!!“