Houston’s vibrant bar scene has earned national recognition time and time again, and for good reason. The city is rich with cocktail bars that pair a great atmosphere with a brilliant menu. With a constant flow of new places being added to the mix, there has never been a better time to explore the city’s best cocktail bars. Whether you’re in the mood for a whimsical tiki escape or a refined whiskey experience, consider this list of cocktail bars that have become beloved staples of the city.
Better Luck Tomorrow
Better Luck Tomorrow is ideal for any occasion, from a relaxed first date to gathering with friends. Owned by hospitality pros Bobby Heugel and Justin Yu, the bar is equally popular for its food as it is for its cocktails. Find elevated all-day eats, like chicken liver mousse on sourdough ($15), shrimp cocktail ($20), and hanger steak ($24), but also, a solid everyday cheeseburger ($14). Beverages have just as much range, with classics like hurricanes ($13) and ranch water ($13) and house originals like the ancho chile tequila-infused spice girl cocktail ($13). 544 Yale St., Houston, betterlucktomorrowhou.com
Julep
A recipient of the James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program, Alba Huerta has built a robust bar menu with Southern roots and a modern twist at this gem on the outskirts of Downtown. Along with multiple iterations of the julep ($16), the menu features well-executed cocktails like the mezcal carajillo ($16) and an amaro colada ($16). Stay to eat while soaking up the bar’s moody atmosphere. Julep touts an impressive food menu, including raw oysters on the half shell, truffle cheeseburger sliders, and brandy bread pudding. 1919 Washington Ave., Houston, julephouston.com
Lei Low
Those visiting Lei Low for the first time might find the bar’s funky interior at odds with its unassuming exterior, but that just adds to the charm. With dim lighting and maximalist tropical decor, this tiki bar feels like a true escape in the middle of the city. Expect potent rum drinks served up in playful, beachy-themed glassware in shapes like skulls, parrots, clamshells, and sharks. Visit on Wednesdays and celebrate “Hawaiian Hump Day”, during which happy hour is offered all night. 6412 N. Main St. C, Houston, leilowbar.com
Anvil
Mention cocktail bars in Houston, and Anvil is sure to be named. An integral part of Houston’s bar scene since it opened in Montrose in 2009, Anvil’s “100 List” sets it apart from other places. What began as a guideline of cocktails that every Anvil bartender needed to know, became integrated into the menu, allowing patrons to choose from the vast selection. Two decades later, the bar remains a comforting go-to in the neighborhood, and draws in crowds on weekdays and weekends alike. Visit Anvil’s sister bar, Refuge located in the same building, for a more exclusive experience. 1424 Westheimer Rd. Ste. B, Houston, anvilhouston.com
Clarkwood
Since opening inside the 1930s-era Star Engraving Co. building in Montrose in 2021, Clarkwood has brought electric energy to the historic space. Open until 2 am daily, the bar draws in crowds dressed to the nines, looking to see and be seen. Whimsical drinks with deep hues, like the spicy watermelon margarita ($16) and dragon fruit mojito ($16) pop against the bar’s pristine white interiors. Beer, wine, house-curated shots ($12), and charcuterie boards ($40) round out the menu. 3201 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 190, Houston, clarkwoodhtx.com
Diversion Cocktails
Diversion Cocktails raises the bar when it comes to handcrafted cocktails. creating its own tinctures and cordials, using produce grown on the company’s urban farms. The result is a menu of thoughtfully prepared cocktails that stray from the norm. Diversion’s take on an espresso martini ($35), which requires eight hours of preparation time, reveals a cocktail that is clear in color, like a traditional martini, but boasts the rich flavors of coffee, cinnamon, and coconut. 7202 Long Point Rd., Houston, diversioncocktails.com
Reserve 101
At Reserve 101, whiskey is the star. This spirited hangout, housed in a storied 1900s-era building, is mere steps from the Toyota Center, Minute Maid Park, and the House of Blues, making it a perfect pre- or post-party destination. The knowledgeable staff warmly welcomes whiskey connoisseurs and those who want to learn more about it. With 1,000 bottles from 14 countries, there is a lot of ground to cover. 1201 Caroline St. Ste. 100, Houston, reserve101.com
Bandista
Hidden behind a mock bookshelf deep inside the Four Seasons Hotel in Downtown, Bandista is one of Houston’s true hidden gems. It is often referred to as a cocktail laboratory, because of the thorough presentation and crafting of drinks like the dulce far niente, a riff on a tiramisu that is garnished with mascarpone mousse. With only 20 seats, you’ll surely want to secure a reservation. 1300 Lamar St., Houston, bandistahouston.com
