No gatekeeping here—we can’t get enough of Clarkwood. Nestled inside a restored old theater, this spot pairs its chic interiors with an electric nightlife vibe. The drink menu dazzles with signature cocktails, curated wines and three house-crafted shots. For a timeless choice, try the Lychee Martini—vodka, muddled lychee, coconut water, French peach liqueur, St. Germain and a hint of orange blossom. 3201 Allen Parkway, Ste. 190
Julep isn’t just a Houston favorite—it’s a James Beard Award-winning bar with a cocktail menu that spans the globe. Pull up a stool with friends at the bar, or dig into a tempting array of small bites and big plates in the parlor. Our pick? The Snake-Bit Sprout, a perfect blend of Ford’s gin, chamomile, pineapple, lime and cider. 1919 Washington Ave.
Santé’s Fruits of the Earth signature cocktail is a tropical fusion of passion fruit and pineapple, ignited by Amaras Verde Mezcal. It’s a spirited tribute to Frida Kahlo’s “Fruits of the Earth.”
Mystify your senses at MAD, where modern molecular tapas bring a bold twist to Spanish cuisine. Owner Ignacio Torras channels the smells, flavors and textures of his childhood in Spain while infusing the energy of Madrid’s nightlife. The restaurant is as striking as its dishes, with bright red bar chairs, deep blue velvet curtains and a luxe club vibe, accented by curiosities like a replica of the Cassini satellite. For a standout sip, try the Fruto Prohibido, a complex mix of Four Roses small batch, Daron calvados, Benedictine, spiced apple, Bittercube cherry bark vanilla and Angostura bitters. 4444 Westheimer Road
Októ, inside Montrose Collective, is Houston’s must-visit Mediterranean spot, blending flavors from Greece, Spain, Italy, Morocco and the Levant. The moody, chic space features a lush patio and a lively horseshoe-shaped bar serving inventive cocktails like a shishito-infused G&T, espresso martini and barrel-aged manhattan. Share small plates like Moroccan frena bread, squid-ink linguine with blue crab, or heartier dishes like seared branzino while soaking in the vibrant, late-night energy. 888 Westheimer Road, Ste. 119
Houston, meet Park House, the city’s premier private social club. From scotch suppers and book signings to après-ski soirées and a rotating art collection, it offers posh experiences for discerning members. With trivia nights, tasting events, themed parties and a chic hub for power lunches and cocktails, Park House is designed to be a stylish home away from home. 4411 San Felipe St., Ste. 700
River Oaks Theatre isn’t just a place to catch a film—it’s also a destination for creative cocktails. Head upstairs to the ultra-chic bar, where you’ll find a playful lineup of themed drinks like Once Upon A Margarita, Burning Daylight and Be Better Than The Gap, alongside curated beer and wine options. Whether you’re enjoying a pre-show sip or winding down afterward, it’s the perfect spot to combine cinema and cocktails. 2009 W Gray St.
Nestled in the heart of the Upper Kirby neighborhood, Santé is a lively, modern watering hole celebrated for its inventive, expertly crafted cocktails. The bar menu caters to every palate—whether you crave the bold richness of an espresso martini, the timeless allure of a Manhattan or cosmo, or the bright, refreshing snap of a perfectly shaken margarita. Guests can also explore seasonal creations, infused spirits and signature blends that highlight fresh ingredients and thoughtful technique. 2309 Richmond Ave.
Perched on the 7th floor of the Thompson Hotel, Sol 7 is Houston’s buzziest restaurant, boasting sweeping city views that rival its vibrant atmosphere. The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring craft cocktails like the Green Light with Siete Misterios mezcal, Midori, coconut Makrut lime, cucumber and salt, or the refreshing Freestyle Spritz with Framboise, sparkling rosé, mint and Fever-Tree elderflower tonic. 1717 Allen Parkway
Soy Cowboy’s Cherry Room can seat up to 60 guests or accommodate 80 for a cocktail-style reception.
Perfect for a night out of town, Soy Cowboy in Arlington sits between the city’s iconic stadiums, serving a winning combination of Asian cuisine and signature cocktails. Our top picks: the Raspberry Refresher (tequila, lemon, raspberries, simple syrup), Dr. Feelgood (Wild Turkey bourbon, ginger, lemon, Monin organic honey), and Japanese Home Run (Suntory Toki Whiskey, Jameson, Aztec chocolate bitters, gomme syrup). 888 Nolan Ryan Expressway, Ste. A
At Winsome Prime, every sense is in for a treat—stunning views, luxe decor and a menu that will make your taste buds tango. Start at the bustling bar, then sip under the stars on the posh patio. Our favorite pick? The Winsome Margarita, sweet, strong and irresistible with Reposado tequila, Giffard Caribbean pineapple liqueur, pineapple juice, lime and a Tajín rim. 5888 Westheimer Road