
Houston knows how to have a good time. Whether for date night, an outing with friends, or solo fun, here are Houston’s best bars in no particular order!
1. Monkey’s Tail
Established in 2019, Monkey’s Tail, located in Lindale Park, is renowned for its expertise in crafting cocktails and its vibrant Tejano ambiance. The bar features a daily rotating margarita selection, with flavors changing daily, including past favorites like the Fanta Orange Margarita.
For an alternative option, you can indulge in Tommy’s Margarita, prepared with Hornitos Blanco, lime juice, and agave nectar. Beyond their delightful drink offerings, Monkey’s Tail also presents a delightful array of creative brunch choices.
Monkey’s Tail is temporarily closed as it revamps its food and beverage menu but plans to open as soon as this season.
๐5802 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77009
2. Grand Prize
Nestled on the eastern fringes of Montrose, just north of Museum Park, you’ll find Grand Prize. At first glance, this bar exudes the atmosphere of a relaxed house party, complete with a welcoming front porch, music filling the air, and a captivating array of colorful lights gleaming through the front window.
Spot patrons enjoying a couple of beers on the second-story balcony. But on chilly, rainy, and gloomy occasions, Grand Prize becomes the perfect cozy hideaway where you can take shelter and escape the elements.
๐1010 Banks St, Houston, TX 77006
3. Maple Leaf Pub
The Maple Leaf is dedicated to everything related to hockey and Canada. This Midtown pub is a haven for Houston hockey enthusiasts, offering round-the-clock game coverage, a wide selection of Canadian beers, a bubble hockey setup, pool, darts, and even an authentic penalty box.
๐514 Elgin St., Houston, TX 77006
4. Social Beer Garden
In the heart of Midtown, Social Beer Garden offers an animated outdoor environment featuring lively patio seating, a meticulously groomed lawn, and vibrant murals.
It provides an energetic backdrop for a variety of engaging activities, including live music, steak night, dinner and a movie, backyard LAW Wrestling, and sports. All of these experiences unfold within this vibrant and welcoming ambiance.
๐3101 San Jacinto St, Houston, TX 77004
5. Julep
Lately recognized as one of the top bars in North America, Alba Huerta’s establishment is a reflection of her profound fascination with Southern spirits, with a particular emphasis on bourbon.
Apart from a wide array of bourbon-infused concoctions, the bar offers an extensive selection of cocktails, including two dedicated sections for Julep cocktails and an impressive list of whiskeys. Furthermore, patrons can explore an assortment of other spirits like vodka, gin, agave-based liquors, rum, cognac, and lighter, low-alcohol options.
๐1919 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007
6. La Carafe
Tucked away at 813 Congress St., flanked by two contemporary gastro lounges on the outskirts of Market Square Park in downtown, you’ll find this Houston bar that defies modernity.
La Carafe Wine Bar is a venerable haunt, housed in a over-a-century-old building that’s Houston’s oldest structure, La Carafe is also one of Houston’s best bars.
๐813 Congress St, Houston, TX 77002
7. The Sugar Room
While its location on Washington Avenue, surrounded by some of the city’s liveliest weekend bars, may raise a few eyebrows, the delightful assortment of colorful macaroons, cupcakes, and cookies would certainly reassure you that this bakery has no secrets to hide.
A brief diversion through the pantry room guides you to a concealed doorway that reveals the Sugar Room. This sophisticated cocktail lounge exudes a vintage-chic atmosphere: softly lit, somewhat luxurious, with exposed brick walls, elegant halo chandeliers, drink trolleys adorned with gold accents, and furnished with sumptuous leather sofas and vintage wing chairs in rich indigo hues.
๐5120 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007
8. Double Trouble Caffeine & Cocktails
Satisfy your caffeine and alcohol cravings at the Montrose location of Double Trouble Caffeine & Cocktails. Conveniently situated next to Sig’s Lagoon Record Shop, this bar offers an impressive selection of both coffee and cocktails, as implied by its name. Among their enticing beverage offerings is the Frozen Suffering Bastard, crafted with bourbon, gin, lemon, angostura bitters, and ginger beer.
If you’re looking for an extra boost in your morning revitalization, Double Trouble also provides an invigorating array of coffee-infused cocktails to start your day on a lively note.
๐3622 Main St Suite D, Houston, TX 77002
9. Axelrad
Axelrad is not just a bar; it’s a concept brought to life. Housed in a century-old building, this two-story venue embodies the creative visions of artists, from its unique artisan tap handles to its thoughtfully designed seating and textiles. Outside, you’ll find the Neon Garden, a spacious patio adorned with hammock nooks and adorned with communal long tables.
Beyond its physical space, Axelrad serves as a versatile venue. It regularly hosts a diverse range of events, including video installation projects, stand-up comedy and open mic nights, jazz performances, as well as live bands and DJ sets. Past headliners have included renowned artists like Paul Banks and Twin Shadow.
However, at its core, Axelrad is a patio bar, offering an extensive array of craft beers and cocktails. While Axelrad doesn’t have its own food menu, you have the option to enjoy delicious eats from nearby Luigi’s Pizza or any of the neighboring food trucks.
๐1517 Alabama St, Houston, TX 77004
10. Heights Bier Garten
The beer sanctuary in The Heights boasts both covered and open-air patios adorned with picnic tables, umbrellas, gently scattered lighting, and fire pits when the weather permits. In a similar vein, Heights Bier Garten provides an expansive selection of craft beers, along with options for wines and spirits.
Additionally, HBG presents a comprehensive menu of delectable food and snacks. Enjoy your meal while lounging on one of their swing chairs and challenge yourself to see how many pretzels you can devour before the swings yield.
๐1433 N Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77008