By Elisabeth Brigham By Elisabeth Brigham | April 10, 2024 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guides,
It’s true: No spritz is the same, and these seven Houston hot spots prove precisely that. Here, the sweetest sips of summer.
From left: Heights & Co.’s H&C spritz, the “Martini” spritz, the strawberry Sbagliato spritz and the classic Aperol spritz.
No gatekeeping here; we are obsessed with Heights & Co. If you’re looking for a fun patio to watch the game, there is simply no better spot. The drink menu overflows with signature and seasonal cocktails, margaritas with a twist, and, of course, four specialty Spritzs’ to choose from. Our favorites? The strawberry Sbagliato spritz mixed with prosecco, strawberry-infused Campari and Cocchi, or the H&C spritz made with sparkling rosé, Aperol, pineapple guava and Topo Chico. 1343 Yale St.
Rosie’s Lambrusco Spritz and Spagliato
Rosie Cannoball’s lively atmosphere and exquisite European flavors (think pastas and pizzas, simple seafood and locally-sourced meat cooked over live fire) are enough to keep you coming back, but after a peek at the cocktail and drink menus, we promise you’ll never leave! Master sommelier June Rodil curates an expansive list of delectable wines, while the cocktail menu stays true to its Italian roots with an irresistible menu full of summer sips like Rosie’s Lambrusco Spritz—complete with Aperol, Cleto Chiarli Lambrusco, sparkling wine and soda. Did we mention guests can enjoy 20% off their entire order during happy hour from 5–6 p.m. every Tuesday through Thursday? We’ll cheers to that! 1620 Westheimer Road
If a staycation is on your summer plans, you’re in luck! This Houston hidden gem is totally NYC-inspired, boasting a dazzling 4,000-square-foot courtyard nestled in between three high-rise buildings. On the menu, expect nothing less than seasonal custom mixology creations, including the ever-so-delicious Aperol Spritz made with Prosecco, Aperol, club soda and an orange slice over a large ice cube. Grab your friends and hang out in the garden; we guarantee this new spot will have everyone abuzz! 408 Main St., Houston
Dante's Aperol Spritz
Just a block from Houston’s buzzy River Oaks District, you will find a new face in the mix. Cue Dante’s River Oaks—a modern marvel rife with authentic Italian fare, coastal ambiance and a spacious outdoor patio (perfect for pre or post-dinner drinks). The best part yet? During summer, guests will receive a complimentary Aperol spritz with all lunch entrees. 4340 Westheimer Road
Julep's Spritz
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. Whatever you choose, the Spritz (with your choice of St~Germain, select Aperitivo or Aperol) is an absolute must-order. 1919 Washington Ave.
Winnie's Fabergé spritz
For those hunting down the best happy hours in Houston, Winnie’s is an obvious choice. From 11–5 p.m. every Monday through Friday, all house cocktails are only $7. (We’ll take two, please!) Its playful pink walls welcome you in, while outside, the dog-friendly patio embodies an urban oasis in the midst of Midtown. Chow down on house favorites like the chargrilled oysters, while sharing sips from a treasure chest (imagine large-format drinks with sparklers) or staff cocktails like the Fabergé spritz made with Butterly pea vodka, lemon, Crème De Cassis and elderflower. 3622 Main St.
Hungry's Grapefruit Spritz
With locations in Rice Village and Memorial Drive, Hungry’s can easily be found throughout the city. While it’s dinner offerings and weekend brunch bites are delicious, we promise the liquid brunch cocktails are not to be missed. Those who stick to the classics can sip easily on the original Aperol Spritz, but if you want to mix it up, the grapefruit spritz with Aperol, bubbles, sparkling water and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is just for you. 14714 Memorial Drive, 2356 Rice Blvd.
Photography by: From top, Photos: By CKO Digital; By Taylor Hall; Courtesy of Brand; By Mikah Danae; By CKO Digital; By Julie Soefer; By Mario Avarelo; Courtesy of Brand