With a bevy of bars and booze in Houston, here are the hottest cocktail destinations that are worth a shot.
Gratify’s signature sip, Meet Me Later PHOTO BY KIRSTEN GILLIAM
In an effort to show appreciation toward a supportive community and staff, Gratify Neighborhood Bistro opened its doors for cocktails and curated eats as a positive product of the pandemic. This spot lives up to and beyond its name, decorated with European accessories from the owner’s transcontinental travels and upbringing. Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 in the afternoon, Social Hour is the ultimate destination for a well-deserved cocktail. The Gratify Smash, a fan-favorite, infuses a Fortaleza reposado tequila-based drink with ginger syrup, fresh-squeezed lemon and basil for the ultimate buzz. Gratify also recommends its rendition of a retro margarita, with Lalo tequila blanco, fresh-squeezed lime, fresh-squeezed orange, dry Curacao and chile salt. 5212 Morningside Drive, gratifyhouston.com
Juliet’s bar is hot on the scene. PHOTO BY IN-HOUSE SOCIAL
Celebrating the greatness that gin brings to the world seems to lie in the foundation of this bar, as even its name represents a nod to the Gin Act of 1751. With a selection of over 150 different types, 1751 takes pride in being Houston’s premier gin bar and destination. With the assistance of expert staff, its six styles of gin can be sought after by their flavor profiles and combinations. Handcrafted cocktails like the F.D.M, made with Citadelle gin, 1888 hand-pressed olive juice, house-stuffed Stilton blue cheese and Fresno pepper Castelvetrano olives, trigger a feeling of appreciation for the presence of the drink. Cocktails like the 1736 Gin Act with Hayman’s Old Tom, Noilly Prat dry vermouth and fresh orange bitters can best be enjoyed in the setting of the luxurious lounge or large community table. 191 Heights Blvd., 1751houston.com
In this crazy life we are living in, what could be better than toasting to The Year of Living Dangerously, a mezcal-based drink mixed with grapefruit juice, prickly pear juice, soda, lime, jalapeno, salt and a fresh grapefruit slice? Traveler’s Table draws inspiration from cultures around the world to craft a breathtaking curation of drinks. Taste buds will be dancing with international flavors with the order of The Old Fashioned Experience. In this buzzy beverage offering, the Shogun, a Japanese whisky drink; the Last Pirate Standing, made with Jamaican Rum; and the Fallen Saint, featuring Irish Whiskey, are offered as a flight of three. 520 Westheimer Road, travelerstable.com
1751 boasts an array of craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. PHOTO BY JENN DUNCAN
Seeking a luxurious atmosphere to match the sophistication of your cocktail? Look no further, because Juliet curates modern American vibe dining through its sleek yet eclectic ambiance. From dusk to dawn, the Juliet Old-Fashioned is a must-try, made with apple WhistlePig PiggyBackRye, chai spice and rye whiskey. For those seeking a fruitier blend, the Garden Spritz fuses bubbles, citrus, red berries, blackberry, diamond dust, Chandon Garden Spritz, Belvedere Blackberry & Lemongrass and Ciroc Red Berry. 5857 Westheimer Road, juliethtx.com
Photography by:
