TEXAS - Houston is a city bursting with hidden gems, and for those seeking a unique and mysterious night out on the town, the secret speakeasies that call this city home are sure to deliver. Among these underground establishments is Notsouh, an eccentric dive bar that sets itself apart with live poetry readings and an awe-inspiring collection of cocktails that could only be described as works of art.
1. Lei Low
Another hidden gem is Lei Low, a tiki bar in the Heights. Step inside and find yourself transported to a tropical paradise as you sip on one of their expertly crafted cocktails. With an impressive array of drinks to choose from, you'll be able to find just the right concoction to suit your tastes.
2. Mijo Mezcal Bar
Mijo Mezcal Bar is a must-visit for those with a penchant for mezcal. Located within Cantina Barba's patio area, this hidden speakeasy offers an extraordinary variety of mezcal that is sure to impress even the most discerning aficionados. However, due to its popularity, arriving early to snag one of the limited seats is advisable.
3. Bandista
If a more upscale experience is what you seek, then Bandista, situated within the esteemed Four Seasons Houston, is the place for you. This speakeasy-style bar will transport you back to a bygone era, offering high-end cocktails and a sophisticated ambiance perfect for a night of indulgence. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a seamless experience.
4. Last Concert Cafe
As you venture further into hidden speakeasies, you'll come across Last Concert Cafe, a Tex-Mex eatery by day that transforms into Houston's oldest live concert venue by night. Nestled behind its unassuming double red doors, this venue offers a unique and intimate setting to enjoy live music while savoring delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.
5 The Noble Experiment
Another exclusive find is The Noble Experiment, nestled within Grazia Italian Kitchen. This speakeasy can only be accessed by divulging a secret password, harkening back to the secretive nature of the Gatsby era. Once inside, you'll be transported to an era of glamour and luxury, sipping on exquisite cocktails and reveling in the mystique.
6. Marfreless
Marfreless is an authentic speakeasy in Houston that has been a staple since the 1970s. Its prohibition-era decor, leather couches, and dim lighting genuinely capture the essence of a speakeasy. The grand oak bar and red rooms add to the ambiance, while the upstairs seating area offers a bird's eye view of the crowd below. Marfreless is known for its dazzling signature cocktails that can be enjoyed in this hidden gem.
7. Sugar Room
The Sugar Room is another Houston speakeasy hidden behind a bakery. Upon entering through a non-descript door, guests are transported to a swanky lounge with plush leather couches and gold-trimmed bar carts. The cocktail menu is eye-catching and delicious, with the Gunsmoke margarita being a favorite.
8. Tongue-Cut Sparrow
Tongue-Cut Sparrow is an upscale after-hours bar that exudes luxury and style. The venue's deep oak walls and comfortable leather couches provide a regal atmosphere. With exceptional service and an elite Japanese-inspired drink menu, Tongue-Cut Sparrow offers an exclusive experience. It is located in the heart of Houston's rustic building and can be accessed through the back entrance near Anvil Bar & Refuge.
These hidden speakeasies are not your typical night out. They offer a sense of adventure and intrigue, adding extra excitement to any evening in Houston. So go ahead, explore the city's hidden side, and discover a world of hidden gems waiting to be found.
