As the holidays approach, Houston’s vibrant dining and bar scene takes on a festive twist. While the city’s mild climate may not deliver a traditional winter wonderland, the cozy ambiance at local restaurants, bars, and hotels brings plenty of holiday cheer. From dazzling light displays to holiday-inspired cocktails, here are some of Houston’s best spots to eat, drink, and celebrate the season.
Annabelle Brasserie: A Cozy Christmas Dining Experience
Annabelle Brasserie, located in Autry Park, is known for its year-round beauty, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a festive haven. The restaurant features a floral canopy decorated with holly, gift boxes, and ornaments, while a grand Christmas tree stands in the sunroom. With garlands adorning every corner and a new happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Annabelle is the perfect venue for holiday gatherings.
Location: 811 Buffalo Park Dr., Ste. 100, Houston annabellebrasserie.com
12 Days of Thompson at the Thompson Hotel: A Holiday Extravaganza
The Thompson Hotel’s 12 Days of Thompson holiday celebration kicks off on December 13. The event features stunning light displays on the 7th floor pool deck and restaurant, Sol 7, with picturesque views of Downtown Houston. The festivities include a spa holiday market, photos with Santa, and a drive benefiting the Houston Humane Society, making it a must-visit this holiday season.
Location: 1717 Allen Pkwy., Houston hyatt.com
Crazy Christmas Lights at Bandista: A Speakeasy Wonderland
Bandista, the hidden speakeasy inside the Four Seasons Hotel, is a holiday wonderland with twinkling lights and whimsical decor. Guests can enjoy a festive holiday menu featuring unique cocktails like Pass the Cranberry Sauce, made with sloe berry, vodka, hibiscus, and ginger. Reservations are required for this intimate, merry spot.
Location: 1300 Lamar St., Houston
Visit Website fourseasons.com
Plume: A Glamorous Holiday Bar Experience
Plume, a chic new bar in the Heights, opts for a sophisticated approach to holiday decor with oversized red and gold globes mimicking dramatic ornaments. The venue offers nightly entertainment, including jazz and fire performances, and a limited-time winter menu. It’s the perfect spot for those looking for glamour and holiday cheer in one place.
Location: 1100 W. 23rd St., Ste. 150, Houston
Visit Website: plumehtx.com
&Co Fireside at Heights & Co.: Cozy Up for Christmas Cocktails
During December, &Co Fireside takes over the patio at Heights & Co., creating a cozy atmosphere with firepits, heaters, and blankets. Guests can enjoy holiday movies and a festive menu featuring Christmas cocktails and a loaded s’mores board to roast at their table.
Location: 1343 Yale St., Houston
Visit Website: heightsandco.com
Miracle at Winnie’s: A Classic Holiday Pop-Up
Miracle has returned to Winnie’s for another year of festive cheer. The bar is decked out with Christmas lights, wreaths, and even a Frosty the Snowman photo op. Guests can enjoy unique holiday sandwiches and playful cocktails served in whimsical glassware. The lively holiday spirit extends to the outdoor patio, where a giant St. Nick statue keeps watch.
Location: 3622 Main St., Ste. A, Houston
Visit Website: winnieshouston.com
Miracle at Johnny’s Gold Brick: A Festive Cocktail Experience
Another location for the Miracle pop-up, Johnny’s Gold Brick has transformed into a holiday spectacle. The venue offers festive cocktails and bar snacks in a colorful, cheerful environment. Reservations are required, and the space is family-friendly until 7 p.m. Location: 2518 Yale St., Houston
Visit Website: johnnysgoldbrick.com
Jingle Bell Bar at Aero Cocktail Co.: A Three-Room Holiday Experience
Aero Cocktail Co. has turned into the Jingle Bell Bar, with three themed rooms to explore: Classic Christmas, Candyland Lounge, and Apres Ski Lodge. Guests can enjoy boozy and zero-proof drinks, holiday-themed snacks, and a lineup of festive entertainment, including jazz, burlesque shows, and hands-on crafts like cookie decorating.
Location: 2031 Westcreek Ln. N1, Houston
Visit Website: https://www.jinglebellbarhtx.com/
Jingle & Mingle at Lyric Market: A Festive Food Hall Experience
Lyric Market is spreading holiday cheer with its Jingle & Mingle pop-up. The market features live Christmas music, craft cocktails, and fun holiday drinks like the jingle bell shot. Guests can also donate toys to Toys for Tots while enjoying live performances and getting into the holiday spirit.
Location: 411 Smith St., Houston
Visit Website : lyricmarket.com
Grand Prize: A Year-Round Holiday Vibe
The festive vibe at Grand Prize lasts all year long with its Christmas light displays. During the holiday season, the Montrose bar adds seasonal flair with unique cocktails like Grand Nogg and Santa Wears Hot Pants, served warm. Guests can enjoy cozy vibes around the fireplace and fun games of pool. Location: 1010 Banks St., Houston
Brasserie 19: French Holiday Flair in River Oaks
Brasserie 19, a vibrant French restaurant, hosts a variety of holiday events, including a Santa Brunch de Funk where guests can don holiday pajamas or ugly sweaters. The menu features festive treats and beverages, and the lively atmosphere is perfect for holiday brunches with friends and family.
Location: 1962 W. Gray St., Houston
Visit Website: brasserie19.com
From cozy hideaways to glamorous holiday experiences, Houston’s bars and restaurants are serving up festive cheer this season. Whether you are in the mood for cocktails, cozy firesides, or live entertainment, there’s no shortage of spots to enjoy the holiday spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What are some of the best Christmas-themed bars and restaurants in Houston?
Houston is home to several festive spots where you can enjoy the holiday season. Notable mentions include Annabelle Brasserie, with its warm and festive décor, the Thompson Hotel’s 12 Days of Thompson holiday events, and the Miracle pop-ups at Winnie’s and Johnny’s Gold Brick for their festive cocktails and décor.
- Can families visit these holiday pop-up bars and restaurants?
Many of these locations are family-friendly during the day or early evening. For instance, the Jingle Bell Bar at Aero Cocktail Co. is open to all ages until 7 p.m., while places like Lyric Market and Grand Prize are suitable for families with special events like live music.
- What special events can I attend during the holiday season in Houston?
Houston offers a variety of holiday-themed events such as photos with Santa at the Thompson Hotel, holiday markets at Plume, and Christmas carol performances at Brasserie 19. Additionally, the Jingle & Mingle event at Lyric Market features live Christmas music every weekend.
- What are some fun activities to do while visiting these locations?
In addition to enjoying festive drinks and food, several venues offer activities such as crafting, cookie decorating, and holiday-themed performances. For instance, the Jingle Bell Bar features hands-on crafting, while the Miracle pop-ups offer playful photo ops.
