The 10 Best Bars in Houston

From impressive wine lists and signature cocktails to James Beard Awarded-winning spots, here are the top 10 bars in Houston.

The Warwick’s Pushing Daisies cocktail

JULEP

With its already impressive roster of cocktails that highlight the global flavors of the city—and a James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program—it’s no secret that Julep is hands down a Houston staple. Meet your nearest and dearest at the bar, or munch on a mouthwatering assortment of light bites and big plates in the parlor. As for our go-to order? We can’t resist the Snake-Bit Sprout mixed with Ford’s gin, chamomile, pineapple, lime and cider. 1919 Washington Ave.,

BRASSERIE 19

If your head is filled with Champagne wishes and caviar dreams, a table at Brasserie 19 is an absolute must. For the fare, start with the caviar and chips (think housemade potato chips and creme fraiche onion dip) before diving into the delicious cocktail and wine menu where you’ll find tasty twists to familiar favorites like the Sex and the Clutch City with Empress elderflower rose gin, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, lemon and cranberry juice and the Mockingbird featuring Chandon Garden spritz and orange-rosemary tincture. 1962 West Gray

H Bar at The Post Oak Hotel

THE WARWICK

The Warwick is a feast for the senses with stunning vistas, lavish decor and a culinary scene that will make your taste buds tango. You can start your night at the lively bar and then soak up the stars on the posh patio. And let’s not forget our go-to drink order: The Warwick Margarita. These sips are sweet and strong, with Reposado tequila, Giffard Caribbean pineapple liqueur, pineapple juice, lime and a Tajin rim. 5888 Westheimer Road

H BAR

Nestled nicely inside The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston, H Bar’s sultry surroundings are adorned in crimson velvet accents, dimly illuminated vintage lighting, black-and-white artwork and more—creating the perfect spot for a nightcap. On the menu, you’ll spy a smorgasbord of exotic cocktails, including the Honey and Heather featuring Macallan 12-year scotch infused with honeycomb, honey and orange, Honey Licor 43 and espresso. 1600 W Loop S.

SOL 7

Perched prominently on the 7th floor of the Thompson Hotel sits Houston’s buzziest restaurant, Sol 7. The concept features sprawling city views unlike any other—and that’s just the space itself. When it comes to the drink menu, indulge in a bevy of craft cocktails like the Green Light made with Siete Misterios mezcal, Midori, coconut Makrut lime, cucumber and salt, or the Freestyle Spritz featuring Framboise, sparkling rose, mint and Fever-Tree elderflower tonic. 1717 Allen Parkway

Andiron’s intimate interiors

ANDIRON

No gatekeeping here; we are obsessed with Andiron. If you’re looking for top-tier ingredients and flavorful dinner plates, there is simply no better spot. The drink menu overflows with signature cocktails, dinner wines and, naturally, three martinis to choose from. Keep it simple with Nolet’s, Sipsmith, Vermouth and lemon, or mix it up with Ketel One, olive juice and blue cheese olive. We’ll cheers to that! 3201 Allen Parkway Ste. E100

ANVIL

If you’re looking for a buzzy bar that serves serious sips, head downstairs from Refuge to Anvil. Separate from its sister bar, Anvil toutes a list of 100 cocktails—ranging from sour and short to boozy and alluring. Under the boozy and alluring section, you will find the tried and true classics, like our personal favorite, the old-fashioned, mixed with bourbon, rye, palm sugar and bitters. 1424 Westheimer Road Ste. B

Have a sip at Sol7’s buzzy bar area, interior dining space or outdoor patio.

PARK HOUSE

Houston, there’s a new kid on the block, and we promise you’ll want to listen. Scotch suppers, book signings, après ski soirees, and a rotating art collection that is over-the-top fabulous—have we piqued your interest yet? Allow us to introduce Park House, the city’s premier private social club that provides the poshest experiences for its discerning members. From trivia night, tasting experiences and themed parties to a chic meeting hub for power lunching and cocktail hour, this hot new spot gears to be a home away from home. 4411 San Felipe St. Ste. 700

RIVER OAKS THEATRE

Movie lovers, rejoice! The River Oaks Theatre is the best spot to catch a movie—and indulge in some pre or post-showing sips. Head upstairs to its ultra-chic bar, where you can find a surplus of themed specialty cocktails like the I Know It Was You, Fredo, and Be Better Than The Gap, plus beer and wine options. 2009 W Gray St.

MAD

Mystify your senses and enjoy tapas with a twist at MAD, where diners can enjoy modern molecular dishes. Owner Ignacio Torras brings his childhood smells, flavors and textures of Spain to life while incorporating Madrid’s vibrant nightlife. Here, the dishes and drinks are just as picture-worthy and detail-oriented as the restaurant’s otherworldly interior. Bright red bar chairs, deep blue velvet curtains, and booths create a luxe club vibe, while unique decor, such as the replica of the Cassini satellite, keeps diners curious. Not sure what to order? We recommend going for the Fruto Prohibido, mixing together Four Roses small batch, Daron calvados, Benedictine, spiced apple, Bittercube cherry bark vanilla and Angostura bitters. 4444 Westheimer Road