50 Best Cocktail Bars in Houston

“Anvil is a popular spot known for its expertly crafted drinks that are unmatched in taste and presentation. The bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the overall pleasant experience. While seating may be limited, the quality of the cocktails makes it worth the visit. Visitors praise the personalized service, with some even mentioning specific staff members who enhance the dining experience.“

“Captain Foxheart's Bad News Bar & Spirit Lodge is a hidden gem in Houston, nestled above an attorney's office. This speakeasy-style cocktail bar offers a wide range of craft drinks, including new creations every month, made by knowledgeable staff. The atmosphere is perfect for a pre-game drink or late-night nightcap, with a cool vibe and great conversations. The balcony offers a stunning view of downtown Houston, making it a great spot to relax and unwind. With its unique location and excellent drinks, Captain Foxheart's is a must-visit for any cocktail enthusiast.“

“Kin Dee offers a wonderful dining experience with friendly service, outstanding food, and occasional live music. The menu features delicious options, including mango sticky rice, and the staff provides great recommendations. With a pleasant atmosphere and respectful noise levels, Kin Dee has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, earning high recommendations for its authentic Thai cuisine.“

“Le Jardinier is a top-notch fine dining restaurant located in the Houston area, perfect for special occasions. The earthy color palette and olive green accents create a relaxing atmosphere that welcomes guests warmly. The service is exceptional, with servers like Elvio going above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience. The restaurant offers both valet and self-parking options, with the possibility of validating the parking ticket at the end of your meal. The seasonal tasting menu is a popular choice, featuring standout dishes like the perfectly cooked Wagyu Bavette Au and the refreshing yuzu mousse dessert. While some dishes like the Grilled Spanish octopus may lack a "wow" factor, others like the foie gras appetizer and the Atlantic cod entree are sure to impress. The Noguchi Garden Fizz - Haru cocktail may be a bit plain, but the extensive wine list offers great options to pair with your meal. Overall, Le Jardinier offers a fantastic culinary experience from start to finish, with delicious food, beautiful presentation, and impeccable customer service. It's a place where every penny spent is worth it, and where guests can truly appreciate the art of French cuisine. Make sure to ask the host to validate your parking ticket for added convenience!“

“Da Gama offers a fantastic dining experience with tender and flavorful dishes, including beef and octopus. This charming restaurant combines Portuguese and Indian cuisine, served in an elegant atmosphere with a unique port wine selection. Enjoy the outdoor seating area or bar seating, and don't miss their gluten-free menu options and flavorful dishes like chili tofu and chana masala.“

“Dante's River Oaks is a charming restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for dates or family gatherings. The owner, Piero, welcomes guests with a warm smile. The chef bar offers a glimpse into the kitchen, where dishes are prepared with care. The staff, led by manager Boris, is friendly and attentive. The menu features delicious options, such as pasta with white wine sauce and muscles, gnocchi shrimp pasta, and a charcuterie board. With its impeccable ambience and exceptional cocktails, Dante's River Oaks is a hidden gem that will make guests feel like family.“

“Karne Korean Steakhouse offers an exceptional dining experience. Friendly and knowledgeable staff, including servers Alex and Jarvis, provide clear explanations and recommendations. The food is phenomenal, and the martini gathering, now relocated inside, features affordable 75-cent martinis.“

“The Balboa Surf Club is a great spot, especially for date night, with a romantic atmosphere and good food. The miso salmon and side salad were standouts, and the decent wine selection was also appreciated. While the service was a bit rushed at times, the food came out quickly. The atmosphere is chill, with a design reminiscent of Houston's. The spicy tuna sushi and chicken salad were both delicious, and the staff, including the waitress, hostess, and manager, were friendly and attentive. Complimentary valet parking is available, making it a convenient choice for a business lunch or casual gathering.“

“Wild offers a variety of great and fun cocktails, with the option for THC-infusion, and a decadent cookie-stuffed croissant that is sure to delight. The Hanoi Hi Five drink is an explosive mix of flavors. The burger, seasoned fries, and spicy fried rice are standout dishes. While the food is always delicious, the recent change to a bar and lounge experience has reduced the food menu and shifted order placement to the bar, which can be less welcoming for groups. Regardless, the staff remains extremely friendly and helpful, making it a great spot for conversation and relaxation.“

“Clarkwood is an exceptional speakeasy-style restaurant that offers an impressive atmosphere, elevated cocktails, and an exceptional spirit selection. The attentive and knowledgeable bartenders, such as Mariano, Beans, Angelica, and Jaime, provide outstanding service and make excellent drink recommendations. Customers consistently praise the vibrant ambiance and high-quality food and beverages, making Clarkwood a must-visit destination.“

“Lees Den offers a great atmosphere, with a combination of cool music, low lights, and cozy decor. The restaurant has a vast wine list, featuring 40 pages of options, and a wide range of delicious food, including unique and tasty dishes. The staff is attentive and friendly, with Fatima providing excellent service. Overall, Lees Den provides a great experience for a night out.“

“The Chelsea is a stylish and quaint lounge-like restaurant serving up tasty bites and delicious cocktails. The atmosphere is lovely, with dim lighting and modern decor. The menu features delicious dishes, including wagyu beef tartare and east coast oysters, as well as a delicious beet and whipped feta salad. The staff is pleasant and accommodating, and the restaurant offers a great happy hour at the bar, making it a great spot to visit, especially on weekends.“

“Heights & Co. offers a fancy dining experience with a variety of food and beverages. The bar has a great ambiance with attentive service and a selection of craft drinks. While the menu includes tasty options, some may find it pricey, such as the $18 burger. It's a child-friendly spot, but this might not appeal to those looking for a traditional bar experience. Vegetarian options are available, and the restaurant features a large outdoor patio, making it a suitable hangout spot.“

“Lei Low is an amazing Tiki bar with cozy vibes and incredible drinks. The bar offers a special rum menu for a limited time, and unique drinks like the Tiki on Acid, featuring chartreuse. The creative garnishes and surprise cups keep customers coming back for more. The holiday decor, including giant ornaments and nutcrackers, adds to the festive atmosphere. Try their holiday drink menu, featuring drinks like The Hot Buttered Banana, a sweet and warm banana-infused rum drink. The service is good, and the live DJ adds to the lively ambiance. The only drawback is the limited parking, but overall, Lei Low is a favorite spot to enjoy a drink in Houston.“

“JINYA Ramen Bar - Midtown offers a delightful dining experience with its beautiful atmosphere and attentive service. The food is highly praised, including the delicious Ramen and the new Salmon Poke Bowl. Customers appreciate the variety of vegetarian and vegan options available. The staff, such as Adela and Shawn, provide exceptional service, making the overall experience very enjoyable for diners.“

“Great food, amazing drinks, and fair prices at Trash Panda Drinking Club. Enjoy $1 taco Tuesday and the $10 trashy meal deal. The chill vibe and friendly bartenders make it a must-visit. While some might find the smoke overwhelming on the patio, the addition of new items to the menu keeps customers coming back. Truly one of the best bars around.“

“At Swallow's Nest, enjoy expertly crafted drinks priced between $6-$12. The skilled bar staff, like TJ, ensure a great experience. This must-visit spot is a hidden gem, and don't forget to try the nearby Crave Burgers for their exceptional fried chicken.“

“Heights Bier Garten is a popular spot for cocktails and drinks in a unique, open space. The atmosphere is lively and upbeat, making it a great spot for any occasion. The bartenders are attentive and precise, and the mixologists' craft is on display as they create innovative cocktails. The garden setting offers ample seating for groups of any size. While the food may not be universally appealing, the restaurant's hip vibe, great cocktails, and convenient parking make it a great choice for a night out.“

“Permission, a hidden gem in Houston, offers a phenomenal ambience with amazing service. The speakeasy, The James, provides exceptional hospitality for a memorable night out. The bar boasts an incredible atmosphere, expertly crafted cocktails, and a menu to suit every taste. The standout feature is the warm and attentive staff, who genuinely care about ensuring a fantastic experience. A must-visit spot with a 5/5 star rating!“

“Diversion Cocktails offers a unique and creative drinking experience in a repurposed setting. The exterior may not be impressive, but the interior boasts a high-end bar atmosphere without any stuffiness. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, serving a variety of both high-end and reasonably priced drinks. Though the food options are limited, the focus is on the exceptional cocktails. This "very cool place" is a great option for those seeking a different take on drinks in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.“

“Kanpai Club is a hidden gem located inside Hando, offering a Japanese-themed bar experience. The intimate space has limited seating but a great vibe with hip hop music. The signature espresso martini is highly recommended, along with other solid cocktails. The attentive and knowledgeable staff provide fair prices for a great overall experience. The restaurant shares a parking lot with other businesses, but street parking is available nearby. The creative cocktail list features Asian ingredients like lychee and yuzu, ensuring a unique and delicious drink every time. Despite the bar stool seating and potential noise, Kanpai Club is the perfect spot for a drink and nice ambiance, reminiscent of an izakaya in Japan.“

“White Rhino Patio And Cocktail Bar is a fun and chill place with fast bartenders and on-point drinks. Enjoy live music on Fridays, like the "Riff Riders" playing classic and modern rock/pop songs. Kid-friendly until sundown, it's a great spot for events too. The atmosphere is amazing, with great vibes, nostalgic music, and even a mechanical bull for entertainment. Perfect for happy hour with coworkers or hosting a networking event.“

“Worcester's Annex is a haven for spirit enthusiasts, offering expertly crafted drinks with a personal touch. The bartenders are skilled and accommodating, willing to create custom cocktails to suit individual tastes. The menu features a range of creative drinks, including the Island Pimms, Hear Center, and Hailey's Comet, priced between $9-15. The atmosphere is relaxed, with firepits adding to the ambiance on chilly afternoons. Located next to Heights Biergarten, Worcester's Annex offers valet parking and limited self-parking options. A must-visit for a refreshing drink and a great vibe.“

“Breakfast Bar HTX offers a lively atmosphere with live music, though the outdoor dining experience can be hindered by an abundance of flies. The food quality is mixed, with the shrimp and grits receiving praise, but the presentation may not match online expectations. Service can be inconsistent, with some guests reporting poor attentiveness from waitstaff. However, others have had a more positive experience, describing the food and drinks as outstanding, and the overall vibe as enjoyable. The restaurant seems to provide a nice ambiance, making it a potentially worthwhile destination for those willing to overlook the occasional service or fly-related challenges.“

“Ivy is a beautiful, European-inspired restaurant with a lively rooftop atmosphere. Guests can enjoy delicious cocktails, yummy food, and amazing service, with Salsa and Bachata dance parties every Saturday night. The charcuterie board is also a popular menu item.“

“Sugar Room is an upscale speakeasy located in the heart of Houston's popular bar scene on Washington Ave. The spacious interior is perfect for a date night or a girls' night out, with a patio that offers a cozy atmosphere with loveseats and chairs. The mixologist at Sugar Room crafts some of the city's best handcrafted cocktails, along with an extensive wine selection. The vibe is vibrant and diverse, with a DJ playing a mix of music genres. The patio bar has heaters for the winter, decks of Uno cards, and Jenga for entertainment. While parking can be frustrating, with limited options and a $20 charge behind the building, taking an Uber to Washington Ave is recommended to enjoy multiple bars carefree. Despite a disappointing experience with the waiter splitting the bill, Sugar Room remains a top choice for a fun night out with friends.“

“Davis Street at Hermann Park is a favorite spot in Houston, impressing even hard-to-please guests. Despite some waiting issues, the staff offered champagne and appetizers, setting a positive tone. The top-notch service and food made everyone forget the initial hiccups. The Mother's Day Brunch was particularly outstanding, although there was a minor incident with a falling chair. Overall, this first-time visit left a lasting impression, promising future returns for the couple who discovered this new favorite spot.“

“IKTO - I Know The Owner offers a fun and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for girls' nights or date nights. Their skilled bartender, Hector, crafts exceptional drinks, including the popular green tea and espresso martini shots. Savor their delicious bites, such as lobster dumplings and truffle pasta, and enjoy the chill vibes.“

“Julep is a renowned cocktail bar in Houston, offering a vast selection of carefully categorized cocktails to suit all preferences. The warm and cozy ambiance, along with the impeccable service and welcoming staff, create a romantic and relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a date. While the food menu could benefit from more gluten-free options, the craft cocktails and well-made drinks are praised by customers.“

“Fitzcarraldo offers a unique and quirky atmosphere with dive bar vibes. The drinks are strong and delicious, with options like The Salty Dog, Japanese old-fashioned, and mezcal with passion fruit. The food, including fries with queso and a carne asada quesadilla, is yummy and freshly made. The restaurant has a chill vibe, plenty of space, and a great patio area. They also host live music and DJs. While they may not advertise much, those who know about Fitzcarraldo appreciate the laid-back ambiance and flavorful drinks and dishes. It's a favorite spot for many locals, who will miss it if it closes down permanently.“

“Located in the Galleria area, Conservatory Galleria is a popular food hall offering a wide variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Pakistani, chicken, and stir-fry. The venue is beautifully decorated, providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere for dates, group outings, or solo meals. The food hall features self-serve eateries, including Rollin Phatties and the Ceviche place, which serve delicious dishes such as chicken with garlic sauce and marinated ceviche. With two bars, outdoor seating, and various seating arrangements, Conservatory Galleria is an ideal spot for anyone looking for a meal without the hassle of mall traffic. The venue is open late, with Happy Hour every day until 7pm, and is wheelchair accessible via elevator.“

“Koi is a hidden gem in Houston, offering the best sushi in the city. The fish is exceptionally fresh, and every dish is amazing. Notable mentions include the Igageso, which is perfectly seasoned and tender, and the new Dragonrita drink, which is smooth and delectable. With reasonable prices and extraordinary service, Koi provides a delightful dining experience that leaves guests raving.“

“The Lymbar offers a great dining experience with a menu featuring cool twists on old favorites. The decor and vibe are lovely, with live saxophone and piano adding a nice touch. The service is quick and pleasant, while the food is served hot with fresh ingredients. The Lobster Roll Twinkies, Plantain Chips, Spinach Empanadas, Salmon, Bucatelli Pasta with Shrimp, Cheeseburger, and Tres Leches are all fantastic choices. The Chicken Chicharrones are tasty, and the drinks are strong. The salads and ceviche are fresh and well-seasoned, providing a delightful lunch experience.“

“Puttery is an awesome place with amazing customer service. The staff is very friendly and welcoming. Guests can enjoy delicious Birria fries and Jello shots. Chef Tyrone provides a great experience for visitors. Whether it's your first time playing miniature golf or a returning customer, Puttery promises a pleasant visit.“

“B&B Butchers & Restaurant is known for its excellent service, with servers like Oscar and Harmony providing great recommendations and attention to detail. The food is a highlight, especially the steaks such as the Wagyu and filet mignon, as well as the veal parm and beef Wellington. Sides are also well-prepared. They are attentive to special occasions, as they had a birthday card ready for one diner. However, the cocktails received mixed reviews, with some praising the Negroni but finding fault with the margarita. Overall, it's recommended for a splurge dinner or for well-prepared meats and seafood.“

“Winnie's is a cozy, casual establishment located near the metro station. The restaurant offers a simple menu with a variety of sandwiches and light bites. The service is good and fast, with friendly and knowledgeable staff. The food is always fresh and tasty, with standout dishes like the fried pickles and spicy Bloody Mary. The atmosphere is relaxed, with ample space to mingle and outdoor seating. The restrooms are clean and beautiful. Overall, Winnie's is a great spot for a casual night out or a pre-show meal.“

“Hungry's offers a diverse menu with extensive options, including plant-based choices. The restaurant features beautiful outdoor spaces, including a patio and upstairs balcony. The service is excellent, with attentive staff making recommendations. From casual dining to drinks with friends, Hungry's is a great spot. Enjoy options like hamburgers with fries and tacos with Cuban beans in a lovely, laid-back setting.“

“Jūn in the Heights offers sophisticated and creative food, treating guests like family. The atmosphere is delightful, with comfortable seating and a reasonable noise level. Although the air conditioning was struggling due to weather, the excellent menu and service made up for it. The tasting menu is thoughtful and well-priced, with standout dishes like Aguachile and beef tartare. While the server's choice to not refresh silverware was odd, the overall experience was top-notch. Friendly and attentive service, along with excellent wine pairings, make Jūn a fantastic dining choice in the area.“

“Damian's Cucina Italiana is a restaurant known for its outstanding service, food, and ambiance. The menu offers a variety of dishes, all cooked and presented perfectly. It is a consistent choice for business meetings or family celebrations, as the quality of food and service remains excellent. The restaurant is a popular spot for those attending performances at the Hobby Center. Despite the large crowds on special occasions, such as Mother's Day, the service remains efficient and the food, delicious.“

“Wild is a beloved coffee shop with wonderful and knowledgeable staff, great-tasting coffee, and a fantastic atmosphere. It's a popular spot for working and socializing, with a cozy vibe and limited parking. While the back patio could use a good cleaning, overall, Wild is an amazing coffee shop that's sure to please.“

“Happy Hours Daiquiris is a breath of fresh air with its great atmosphere and exceptional customer service. The restaurant offers a wide variety of daiquiri flavors and a unique experience with hookahs and giant games like Uno and Connect Four. The friendly and customer-oriented staff make it a hidden gem worth visiting again and again.“

“Nickel City is a unique spot in Houston with a great atmosphere. The staff is friendly, and the drinks are awesome. It's the perfect place for locals and out-of-towners alike. With multiple locations around Texas, it's a popular choice for a late lunch or happy hour. The bar food is highly recommended, and the bartenders are skilled at making creative and delicious drinks. Whether you're in the mood for a ranch water or a mojito, Nickel City is the place to be for a great time and tasty drinks.“

“Zanti Cucina Italiana - River Oaks provides an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant offers a warm welcome, perfect tandem service, and delicious food. The menu features standout dishes like the charcuterie board, Veal Parmesan, grilled salmon, and homemade pasta. Save room for desserts like chocolate cake and pistachio gelato. The atmosphere is welcoming, although it can get loud as the evening progresses. With friendly and attentive servers, rich flavors, and a great selection of wine and cocktails, Zanti Cucina Italiana is a treat that's highly recommended.“

“D'Alba offers flavorful pasta dishes, with the short rib being melt-in-your-mouth soft. The Tres Leches cake comes highly recommended. While vegetarian options are limited, the restaurant goes above and beyond during emergencies, serving the community with warmth and comfort. The staff is attentive, with some minor hiccups in food orders noted. Overall, D'Alba is a neighborhood staple with a cozy atmosphere.“

“Grand Prize is a no-frills bar with a dive bar energy, reminiscent of college and grad school days. The menu features great fries and an impossible-type burger. The bar has a diverse crowd, top-notch DJs, and excellent drinks. It also offers a fantastic rooftop patio with plenty of seating, a pool table, and different food pop-ups. The unique spot has multiple areas to sit, including a small balcony, and a wide selection of non-alcoholic beers.“

“Monkey's Tail is a 21 and up bar that offers easy access and facilities for wheelchair users, as well as a lot and street parking. The bar is well-loved for its excellent bartenders, friendly barbacks, and unique elotes. Other popular menu items include the Chango burger, steak night, pizza, and cheese dip. While the kitchen is currently under remodeling, customers can order food from Uber Eats or bring their own. The only concern mentioned is about a strict security guard.“

“Maderas - Kitchen & Cantina offers a delightful dining experience with its super delicious food, including sopes and cheesy, loaded quesadillas de flor de calabaza. The shrimp over rice dish is also well-seasoned and generously portioned. The outstanding service from the skilled mixologist, who blends art and science beautifully, makes every visit memorable.“

“BARI RISTORANTE offers wonderful food and service in a lovely shopping complex. However, be cautious with GPS directions as it can lead you astray. The restaurant features a menu with homemade pasta, incredible pizzas, and branzino fish. While the food and service are top-notch, make sure to specify indoor seating preference when making a reservation. Despite this, BARI RISTORANTE has become a premier dining spot known for its delicious dishes and welcoming atmosphere created by owners Tommy and Pedro.“

“Clark’s Oyster Bar offers great food and service, with a friendly staff. The pricing is a bit high, but the quality is worth it. The noise level can be a bit much for conversation. Unfortunately, they do not offer Southern style seafood like fried shrimp or oysters. Despite the location being a bit inconvenient, the experience was enjoyable and the staff went above and beyond, even providing a delicious dessert for a birthday celebration. Overall, it's a place to enjoy a variety of tasty dishes and welcoming service, making it a great spot for special occasions or casual dining.“