Best of 20 cocktail bar in Houston
Welcome to the vibrant world of cocktail bars in Houston! This bustling city is home to a variety of mixology hotspots, each offering unique and delectable concoctions. From chic rooftop bars to cozy speakeasies, the cocktail bar scene in Houston is thriving. Come experience the blend of southern hospitality and innovative mixology that these venues have to offer. Cheers!
- 1. Anvil
- 2. Julep
- 3. Lei Low
- 4. Clarkwood
- 5. Captain Foxheart's Bad News Bar & Spirit Lodge
- 6. Refuge
- 7. Boheme
- 8. Wooster's Garden
- 9. Permission
- 10. Marfreless
- 11. SOHO Garden HTX
- 12. Lilly & Bloom
- 13. Best Regards
- 14. Reserve 101
- 15. Bar No. 3
- 16. 13 celsius
- 17. Houston Watch Company
- 18. The Ready Room
- 19. Diversion Cocktails
- 20. White Rhino Patio And Cocktail Bar
1. Anvil
In-house aging room for meats

Houston is a city with a vibrant cocktail scene, and one standout spot is Anvil Bar & Refuge. Anvil's bartenders are masters of their craft, creating drinks that are both delicious and visually stunning. With a wide range of options on the menu, there is something for every palate. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are happy to answer any questions and guide customers in their choices, making for an overall enjoyable experience.
Anvil's cocktails are unmatched in taste and presentation. The bartenders use only the freshest ingredients and top-shelf liquors to create their concoctions. From the classics like the Old Fashioned and Negroni, to signature drinks like the Anvil Float and Texas Tea, each cocktail is expertly crafted and full of flavor. The presentation is just as impressive, with many drinks served in unique glassware and garnished with fresh herbs and fruits. Overall, a visit to Anvil Bar & Refuge is a must for any cocktail lover in Houston.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Mediterranean Cuisine
2. Julep
Handcrafted Cocktails, Upscale Bar Food, Rustic Chic Decor

Julep Bar, a renowned establishment, has earned the distinguished James Beard Award. The bar is celebrated for its exceptional craft cocktails, carefully selected bar bites, and magical atmosphere. Located in Houston, Texas, Julep Bar is the latest venture from the successful team behind establishments such as Anvil, Hey Merchant, Pastry War, and Blacksmith.
Julep Bar recently opened its doors, though it has yet to be officially promoted. The bar's focus is on southern cocktails, and as its name suggests, the Mint Julep is its signature drink. The Julep Bar team, known for their expertise in the industry, have created a welcoming and charming environment for patrons to enjoy their carefully crafted cocktails and delicious bar bites.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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3. Lei Low
Extensive rum selection, craft cocktails, themed atmosphere

Welcome to Lei Low Rum & Tiki Bar, a small but lively establishment that transports you to a tropical paradise. From the moment you step inside, you're surrounded by Tiki-themed decor, from the wooden interiors and dried palm tree roof to the Tiki God statues and ocean-themed pictures on the walls.
The real star of the show at Lei Low is their creative and extensive drink menu. They offer a special rum menu for a limited time, featuring unique concoctions like the Tiki on Acid, made with chartreuse. The bar's commitment to creative garnishes and surprise cups adds to the excitement and enjoyment of each drink. With its cozy atmosphere and incredible drinks, Lei Low keeps customers coming back for more.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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4. Clarkwood
Private dining rooms and exceptional service

Clarkwood is a speakeasy-style restaurant with a great atmosphere, perfect for a Wednesday night out. One standout team member is Raul, who provides excellent service. The bar is staffed with attentive and knowledgeable bartenders, including Mariano, Beans, Angelica, and Jaime. They offer an impressive selection of cocktails and spirits, and are always ready to recommend a drink that suits your taste.
The cocktails at Clarkwood are exceptional, making it a must-visit destination for spirit connoisseurs. From the drinks to the service, every aspect of the bar is top-notch. Raul, in particular, is a standout team member who contributes to the overall positive vibe of the establishment. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, the staff at Clarkwood make you feel welcome and provide excellent service that keeps you coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Rooftop
5. Captain Foxheart's Bad News Bar & Spirit Lodge
Unique craft cocktails, speakeasy atmosphere, knowledgeable staff

Bad News, a bar in downtown Houston, offers a great atmosphere with a historically beautiful venue and a chill ambiance. The bartenders are knowledgeable and skilled, yet they avoid the pretentiousness found in some other bars. They focus on creating great-tasting, fairly-priced drinks rather than selling "mixology." The bar also boasts a fantastic balcony with views of downtown, making it a unique spot in the area.
The cocktails at Bad News are some of the best in town, with a seasonally updating menu and an extensive list of spirits like mezcals, amaros, and absinthes. The establishment is one of the few downtown bars with a balcony and impressive views. Whether you're looking for a well-crafted drink or a comfortable place to relax, Bad News should be your go-to spot in Houston. With its combination of excellent cocktails, skilled bartenders, and inviting atmosphere, it's the perfect addition to the downtown scene.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
- American Cuisine
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6. Refuge
Hand-crafted cocktails and Vietnamese street food

The cocktail bar offers a cozy and upscale atmosphere, perfect for a night out. The drinks menu showcases creative and expertly crafted cocktails, made with high-quality ingredients. However, the prices are on the higher end. The service is consistently top-notch, with staff providing excellent customer experience. They are cheerful, approachable, and go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome.
In summary, the establishment boasts a warm and intimate setting with a focus on top-quality cocktails and service. The unique drink creations are made with care, although they come at a premium price. The team's exceptional service skills, friendliness, and commitment to customer satisfaction make it a worthwhile experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Happy Hours
7. Boheme
In-house art gallery, happy hour specials, and private events

Bar Boheme offers a wide variety of wine and a full bar with craft cocktails and beer, as well as delicious food to accompany your drink of choice. Their famous Vietnamese fries and handcrafted Korean Barbacoa pizza are particular standouts. The bar is conveniently located near theater and arts events in the Fourth Ward area, making it an ideal spot for casual pre- or post-show drinks and dining.
The cozy bar and restaurant is set inside a refurbished historical building, providing a unique and charming atmosphere for guests. Whether you're stopping in for a quick drink or staying for a meal, Bar Boheme's eclectic wine selection, delicious food, and inviting ambiance make it a standout destination.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
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8. Wooster's Garden
Indoor-outdoor seating, inventive craft cocktails

The Bayou Bramble is a delightful and aesthetically pleasing light drink, known for its distinctive ombre coloring. Despite its refreshing appearance, this cocktail contains alcohol, providing a pleasant buzz. If you're a fan of handcrafted cocktails, delicious food, and an extensive selection of craft beers, then you're in luck! This establishment caters to your tastes, offering a wide variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
The Bayou Bramble's unique ombre effect makes it a standout drink in a sea of cocktail options. Its alcohol content ensures that you won't be missing out on the classic effects of your favorite libations. Moreover, this venue provides an impressive assortment of craft cocktails, food, and beer, making it an ideal destination for culinary and beverage enthusiasts. Whether you're in the mood for a handcrafted cocktail or a carefully selected craft beer, this establishment has you covered.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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9. Permission
Offers a unique dining experience with homemade Italian cuisine

Permission, located in Houston, is a remarkable bar known for its exceptional ambiance and top-notch service. The atmosphere is one of the highlights, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. The cocktails are skillfully crafted, and the menu caters to a diverse range of tastes. What sets Permission apart is its attentive and caring staff, who go above and beyond to create a fantastic experience for every guest. Overall, it's a must-visit spot with a 5-star rating.
At Permission, whiskey enthusiasts will be delighted with the bar's extensive collection of fine liquors, along with masterfully crafted cocktails. The vibe is refined yet welcoming, providing a sanctuary for those who want to enjoy good spirits and good company. Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or simply looking for a great drink, Permission is the perfect place to unwind and indulge.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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10. Marfreless
Hidden underground lounge since 1940s

This establishment may not be suitable for everyone, as it is not a typical social gathering spot or place to consume alcohol in large quantities. Instead, it is an ideal location to visit with a partner for a unique experience. While the drinks are priced higher than average, they are made with quality ingredients.
Upon visiting on an early Saturday evening, I found the ambiance to be dimly lit with vintage 70s and 80s music playing in the background. The upstairs area is separated into sections by curtains, providing a sense of privacy. However, it is important to note that this is not a conventional location for a typical night out.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
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11. SOHO Garden HTX
Spacious rooftop with retractable roof

Soho Garden, formerly known as Secret Garden, is a highly recommended bar in Houston with consistently excellent drinks and mixologists who can make any drink you desire. The ambience is phenomenal, with a well-maintained garden setting that creates a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere. It's an ideal location for private events, comfortably accommodating up to 80 people.
The bar's patio is one of the best in Houston, boasting great drinks and an even better mood. The lighting creates a unique and captivating wave effect on the trees in the courtyard. Even non-alcoholic options, such as the delicious mocktails, are well-crafted and satisfying. Overall, Soho Garden is a top-notch venue that provides excellent service and ambiance, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings and events.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
12. Lilly & Bloom
Stylish, speakeasy-inspired bar serving exquisite meals and craft cocktails

If you're looking for a great cocktail bar and lounge, this place is a must-visit. With ample parking next to the building, you won't have to worry about finding a spot. The custom-designed drinks are a standout feature of this establishment, and the owner's personal touch is evident in most of the menu items.
Two drinks that come highly recommended are Rena's Bloom and the Almond Crush. Both are packed with unique flavors that are sure to impress. But it's not just the drinks that make this bar special - the customer service is top-notch, ensuring that every visitor has a memorable experience. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking to try something new, this bar is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Best Regards
Excellent service and an extensive wine list

Best Regards is a popular spot to relax and socialize with friends, known for its pleasant atmosphere and patio seating. The restaurant's staff are generally friendly and provide quick service, even when it gets busy. In terms of food and drinks, the menu offers a range of options, including classic and signature cocktails.
The classic cocktails at Best Regards are priced at $14 each and include drinks like French 75, daiquiris, gimlets, and martinis made with gin or vodka. Meanwhile, their signature cocktails are priced at $16 and include unique blends like the No Paper Trail, a spicy mezcal-based drink with jalapeno agave, chili tincture, and guava puree. While the signature drinks are interesting, the classic cocktails are the more standout option.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Social Gatherings
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14. Reserve 101
Extensive whiskey collection, expertly crafted cocktails, and knowledgeable bartenders

This establishment is a bar that specializes in whiskey, offering a high-quality house whiskey that is sure to enhance any mixed drink. The relaxed atmosphere of the bar allows customers to bring in their own food, making it a great place to socialize and enjoy a drink. However, the cocktail bar section of the establishment is small and cozy, but the bartenders' arrogant and unwelcoming demeanor can put a damper on the experience.
Despite the excellent drinks and beautiful bar design, the rudeness of the bartenders at the cocktail bar can be off-putting. The bartenders' arrogance severely impacts the overall experience, making it difficult to fully enjoy the delicious cocktails and ambiance. While the bar section offers a great atmosphere and quality whiskey, the cocktail bar section may not be worth the unpleasant interaction with the bartenders.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
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15. Bar No. 3

TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
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16. 13 celsius
Wine preservation technology maintaining freshness

During a recent trip to Houston, a friend recommended visiting a particular spot for a drink. On Wednesday evening, my group ordered a bottle of wine and enjoyed a cheese and meat tray. The ambiance was lively yet quiet enough to hold a conversation. Our server was amiable and eager to discuss our options.
This establishment boasted a welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff. If visitors appear engaged, the staff is eager to provide recommendations or answer any questions. The variety of wines offered by the glass was particularly impressive, with several options available.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
17. Houston Watch Company
Historic building with stunning architecture

This establishment offers a great and knowledgeable service, with bartenders who are highly skilled in their craft. They have an excellent selection of whiskeys and provide top-notch customer service. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, making it a great place to spend an evening.
The prices at this establishment are reasonable, with whiskeys available starting at $4 a glass. This is considered a good value, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or just looking to try something new, this place has something for everyone. The combination of affordable prices and great selection make it a standout option.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
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18. The Ready Room
Vintage decor, local beers, and live music

The Ready Room is a popular jazz bar known for its great atmosphere and top-notch cocktails. It has received high praise for its excellent music and drinks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable night out. The bar has an average rating of 4.6/5 stars across various online platforms, highlighting its popularity and the quality of the experience it provides.
The Ready Room's lively ambiance and great music make it a standout destination. The bar is known for its jazz-filled atmosphere, which provides the perfect backdrop for a night of delicious cocktails and good company. Overall, The Ready Room is a highly-rated venue that is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for all who visit.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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19. Diversion Cocktails
Unique cocktail creations, stylish decor

Diversion Cocktails is a unique bar that offers a creative drinking experience in a repurposed setting. While the exterior may not be impressive, the interior features a high-end bar atmosphere that is free of stuffiness. The knowledgeable and friendly bartenders serve a variety of both high-end and reasonably priced drinks.
Next to Degust, you will find Diversión, a cocktail bar that doesn't play it cool, which is somehow cool. The low-slung brick building houses a bar kitchen, stocked with an array of flasks and equipment that resembles a Pfizer lab. The walls are lined with flagons of tinctures, ferments, vinegars, and shrubs. The bar chefs, led by Steven Enrique Salazar, highlight each drink with a spotlight when serving, and rightly so, as each drink deserves such attention.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
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20. White Rhino Patio And Cocktail Bar
Patio area with unique ambiance

The establishment offers a variety of excellent and refreshing drinks that are sure to satisfy anyone's tastes. The cocktail menu is extensive, with a range of options that are sure to please. For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, there is also a selection of mocktails available. The drinks are consistently strong and expertly mixed, making this a great place to enjoy a well-made beverage.
The venue itself has a great atmosphere, with a lively vibe and friendly people. The music adds to the upbeat ambiance, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a night out. The staff is attentive and helps to create a welcoming environment. Whether you're looking to enjoy a few drinks with friends or dance the night away, this place is a great choice. With excellent drinks, a lively vibe, and great music, it's easy to see why this establishment is a popular choice for a night out.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Rooftop
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Late Night