Exclusive Guide to the 7 Best Cocktail Bars in Houston
Houston, a city celebrated for its cultural variety and active night scene, has a special place in my heart. As a travel writer with a deep interest in cocktails, I’ve devoted years to exploring the wide expanses of this large city, in search of truly special and best cocktail bars in Houston.
My adventure started on a warm summer evening when a friend introduced me to craft cocktails at a small, charming bar in Montrose. That evening sparked a deep interest in me – a desire to seek out and reveal the less-known treasures of Houston’s cocktail world.
This exploration has led me to discover bars that are more than mere places to drink; they are centers of creativity and refuges for those who value the craft of cocktail-making. Every visit has become a memorable story, influenced by the tastes and atmospheres of these places. Ranging from stylish and contemporary to homely and traditional, the cocktail bars in Houston reflect the city’s own diverse character.
In this article, I am excited to present to you the 7 Best Cocktail Bars in Houston – each one representing a distinct facet of the city’s evening life.
Best Cocktail Bars in Houston
SOHO Garden HTX
Location: 408 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
Link: sohogardenhtx.com
Nestled in the heart of Houston, SOHO Garden HTX is a gem among the city’s cocktail bars. The bar’s ambiance is both inviting and cozy, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
SOHO Garden HTX prides itself on its friendly and knowledgeable bartenders who craft unique and incredible cocktails. Specialty drinks like the Lavender Gimlet and Ginger Sage Margarita are must-tries.
The music, a blend of classic jazz and soul, enhances the laid-back vibe of this spot, making it a top contender in the list of best cocktail bars in Houston.
Julep
Location: 1919 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007
Link: julephouston.com
Julep is a testament to the blend of modern and classic design, creating an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and welcoming.
Located at 1919 Washington Ave, this bar stands out for its impressive cocktail menu, catering to all preferences. The bar is renowned for its expertise in mixology, reflected in their signature cucumber-pineapple mint julep. Additionally, the food menu, featuring items like Cajun-style deviled eggs, perfectly complements the cocktail experience.
Julep is a staple in Houston’s cocktail scene, continually raising the bar for other establishments.
Bar No. 3 – La Colombe d’Or
Location: 3410 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Link: lacolombedor.com/bar-no-3
Bar No. 3, part of La Colombe d’Or at 3410 Montrose Blvd, provides a unique cocktail experience in Houston. The bar’s distinct atmosphere and eclectic mix of drinks make it a standout destination.
This establishment is known for its ability to marry a luxurious experience with a diverse cocktail menu, making it a must-visit for those exploring the best cocktail bars in Houston.
Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar and Spirits Lodge
Location: 308 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
Link: instagram.com/badnewsbar
This intriguingly named bar, located at 308 Main, offers an ambiance akin to a classic mobster film. Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar is characterized by its long, narrow, and dimly lit interior, adorned with stylish green-shaded banker’s lamps. The bar’s balcony overlooking Main Street offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle below.
With a vast spirit selection and a menu that frequently updates, this bar is a favorite for both locals and visitors, firmly placing it among Houston’s best cocktail bars.
Diversión
Location: 7202 Long Point Rd, Houston, TX 77055
Link: diversioncocktails.com
Diversión, situated at 7202 Long Point, is renowned for its creative and theatrical approach to cocktails.
This bar, celebrated for its unique drink offerings like the Bone Marrow cocktail, provides an immersive experience unlike any other. The smoked drink named ‘Movie Night‘, served with popcorn and an iPad playing short films, is a testament to Diversión’s innovative spirit.
This bar is a perfect choice for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience in the Houston cocktail scene.
Lei Low
Location: 6412 N Main St C, Houston, TX 77009
Link: leilowbar.com
Lei Low, a tiki bar located in The Heights, brings a Hawaiian oasis to Houston.
Known for its over-the-top Hawaiian theme, Lei Low encourages patrons to don Hawaiian shirts and enjoy rum-soaked favorites. The bar’s lively atmosphere is further enhanced by steel guitar performances on Wednesdays, making it a unique addition to Houston’s best cocktail bars.
Bandista
Location: 1300 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010
Link: fourseasons.com/houston/dining/lounges/bandista
Bandista, a hidden gem within the Four Seasons, is a reservation-only speakeasy lounge that exudes a 1920s vibe. This intimate bar, with a maximum capacity of 18, offers a curated selection of classic and contemporary cocktails, made with high-end ingredients like WhistlePig rye.
Bandista’s exclusivity and creative cocktail menu make it a sought-after destination for those exploring the best cocktail bars in Houston.
