Best Cocktail Bars in East Side

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

HoustonKemah / SeabrookThe Woodlands

Areas

BellaireClear LakeCypressDowntownEast EndGalleria / Uptown

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

James Beard AwardMICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

52 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Sophie Cocktail and Terrace Bar restaurant

1. Sophie Cocktail and Terrace Bar

3.5

Very Good(241)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Montrose

Booked 11 times today

Sophie Cocktail and Terrace Bar in Montrose, Houston, is the quintessential destination for Cocktail Bar enthusiasts. With a chic, artistic ambiance reminiscent of the South of France, it’s no wonder guests rave about its "incredible cocktails" and "fantastic atmosphere." The bar offers an impressive array of signature and presentation-based cocktails, praised for being "a perfect balance of booze and flavor." Guests love the dual experience of the intimate downstairs speakeasy and the expansive open-air terrace, making it ideal for both lively nights and relaxed evenings. Whether for brunch or a night out, Sophie is a "must-visit" for cocktail aficionados.

2. Bar Doko

4.8

Exceptional(45)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Montrose

Booked 1 time today

Bar Doko is an homage to the bar and cocktail culture in the birthplace of Japanese bartending — Ginza, Tokyo. Our experience is deeply rooted in Omotenashi, a philosophy of attentive and wholehearted hospitality. We only have 16 seats so be sure to make a reservation. Business casual dress is encouraged.Should your plans change, please call us or use the OpenTable app to cancel. A no-show fee of $25 per person may apply.

3. Flora

4.9

Exceptional(1385)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Montrose

Booked 56 times today

Flora, nestled in the vibrant Montrose neighborhood of Houston, shines as a beacon for cocktail enthusiasts. This exquisite cocktail bar is celebrated for its "stunning brass and marble bar," which provides a dazzling backdrop to the expertly crafted drinks. The selection of tequila and mezcal is unparalleled, promising an authentic taste of Mexico with a Texas twist. Diners rave about the "amazing food and drinks," highlighting the bar's ability to complement its flavorful dishes with equally impressive cocktails. Flora's commitment to quality and innovation makes it a must-visit for those seeking a memorable cocktail experience in a "beautiful and lively" setting.

4. Aperitivo

4.5

Awesome(211)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Northside

Booked 16 times today

Perched high above Buffalo Bayou, this Italian-inspired rooftop cocktail bar and café is a radiant escape where la dolce vita comes to life. With sweeping views of the water and the glittering Houston skyline, it’s the ultimate setting to unwind with an expertly crafted cocktail and indulge in a made-from-scratch menu that celebrates bold Mediterranean flavors. Inside, timeless Italian elegance meets modern sophistication, with classic interior design elements creating a space that’s as inviting as it is beautiful. The indoor space opens almost entirely to the outdoors, blurring the line between indoor comfort and open-air charm. With live entertainment programming on select days, the vibrant atmosphere is enhanced, making it the perfect spot to relax, enjoy great music, and savor every moment. Every detail, from the ambiance to the cuisine and beverages, exudes warmth, charm, and effortless style.

5. Bandista

4.8

Exceptional(336)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 12 times today

Nestled discreetly within the Four Seasons Hotel Houston, Bandista offers an unparalleled Bar, Lounge, and Bottle Service experience that transports you to a modern-day speakeasy with a decadent Latin flair. Guests rave about the "amazing mixologists" who create "exceptional cocktails" with a creative twist, ensuring each visit is a unique adventure. The intimate 20-seat setup provides a "very fun, romantic, entertaining experience," perfect for a special night out. With its "secretive, exclusive vibe," Bandista guarantees a memorable escape into a world of sophisticated elegance, where the service is as "superb" and "attentive" as the drinks are "phenomenal."

A photo of Guard and Grace - Houston restaurant

6. Guard and Grace - Houston

4.8

Exceptional(2453)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 115 times today

Guard and Grace in Downtown Houston offers an extraordinary seafood experience, showcasing the finest flavors from the gulf and beyond. Diners rave about the "melt-in-your-mouth perfection" of their Alaskan black cod and the "delicious" crab fried rice. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, the seafood dishes here are crafted with expertise and a keen eye for quality. The ambiance complements the culinary offerings, providing a refined yet welcoming dining atmosphere. With attentive service and a menu that highlights the best of seafood, Guard and Grace is a must-visit for any seafood enthusiast.

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7. Julep

4.6

Exceptional(161)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Heights / Washington

Booked 9 times today

Julep Bar stands as an illustrious recipient of the prestigious James Beard Award, celebrated for its exquisite blend of craft cocktails, thoughtfully curated bar bites, and an enchanting ambiance. The menus, ever-evolving to mirror the changing seasons, captivate with their meticulous emphasis on fine ingredients and flavors. Located on Washington Ave between Sawyer and Silver St. The neighborhood is full of restaurants and B&B Butcher's Steak House is within walking Distance. We always take walk-ins so shoot us a texas or stop by and see us if you don't see a table available.

A photo of Hearsay Market Square restaurant

8. Hearsay Market Square

4.6

Exceptional(2552)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 13 times today

Hearsay Market Square in Downtown Houston is a shining beacon of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its delectable menu and vibrant atmosphere. Nestled in one of Houston's historic buildings, the restaurant serves up eclectic American dishes in a chic, antique setting that transports diners to another era. Patrons rave about the “outstanding service and food” and the “delicious” culinary offerings that consistently deliver. From the expertly crafted crab-crusted redfish to the indulgent creme brûlée French toast, each dish is a testament to the chef’s prowess. The ambiance, complemented by excellent service, makes it an ideal spot for both casual and special occasions.

9. Lee's

4.6

Exceptional(94)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Southeast Houston

Booked 26 times today

Lee's celebrates all things Italian, with an amaro, Aperol, and Campari-focused cocktail menu full of bright spritzes Enjoy irreverent snacks like mozzarella sticks, fried mozzarella, shaved truffle pizza, and a chicken parm sandwich in a moody, lounge-inspired atmosphere. Please note, Lee's is a 21+ establishment.Named one of 2025's Best Bars in America (Bon Appetit)Nominated for 2026 Best New Bar (James Beard Foundation)

A photo of Hearsay on the Green restaurant

10. Hearsay on the Green

4.2

Awesome(1467)

$$$$

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 13 times today

Hearsay on the Green offers an exceptional American dining experience right in the heart of Downtown Houston. This restaurant stands out for its "fantastic food and service," consistently delivering dishes that captivate both locals and visitors alike. The menu combines classic American flavors with a modern twist, such as their "delicious" cheesesteak eggrolls and the much-praised "Crab Crusted Redfish." With a charming vintage atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for everything from casual lunches to elegant dinner dates. Diners rave about the "excellent professional service" and the exquisite cocktails, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic American cuisine.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

P
PatGold
Houston •25 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
I went for my birthday with my 2 best friends and we had a great time ! Our service was outstanding and the food was great! They brought out cotton candy with candles and the restaurant is beautiful! Will be back
More info
Flora$$$$• Mexican• Montrose
•
4.9
G
Gary
Houston •1 review
5.0
Dined on 29 May 2026
We enjoy coming to julep and trying all the different and unique drinks . juleps has become one of our favorite spots to hang out with friends
More info
Julep$$$$• Cocktail Bar• Heights / Washington
•
4.6
G
geetGold
Houston •19 reviews
4.0
Dined on 23 May 2026
Love the energy vibe music food and drinks and our waitress was too sweet! It was towards her end of her shift and she still spent extra time went above and beyond for our requests!
More info
Sophie Cocktail and Terrace Bar$$$$• French• Montrose
•
3.5
C
Christopher
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined on 22 May 2026
Came here with some friends after a work dinner. And they all loved it. The vibe, the atmosphere, the service, and the absolute attention to detail makes this place stand out. Highly recommend to anybody who is looking for a upscale evening.
More info
Bar Doko$$$$• Japanese• Montrose
•
4.8
A
Alexandra
Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 7 Feb 2026
Surprisingly empty for a weekend but it was a beautiful experience that I hope more people Come to enjoy!
More info
Botonica$$$$• Cocktail Bar• River Oaks
•
4.4

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Cocktail Bar Cuisine

East Side

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Lazy Brook / Timbergrove
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