Houston’s Best-Kept Secret Restaurants and Bars
Houston’s dining scene has taken a cue from cities like New York, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, with a wave of new restaurants and cocktail bars opening in the style of speakeasies. These hidden gems may not look like much from the outside, but inside, they reveal a world of glamour and sophistication. In a city filled with retail strips, it’s refreshing to stumble upon a unique destination tucked away from the chaos.
The Allure of Speakeasies
The thrill of discovering a secret restaurant or bar is part of the fun. It’s like playing a game of hide-and-seek, where the prize is a unique and exclusive dining experience. From upscale cocktail bars to omakase-only restaurants, Houston’s speakeasies offer a range of exciting options for adventurous foodies.
Downtown Delights
In the heart of Downtown, the Four Seasons Hotel houses two notable destinations: Bayou & Bottle and Toro Toro. But for those in the know, there’s also Bandista, a 20-seat cocktail bar hidden behind a mock bookcase. This upscale speakeasy requires a secret numerical code to enter and offers an innovative cocktail program, rare spirits, and vintage glassware. With nighttime views of the city and a lounge area, Bandista is the ultimate exclusive experience.
Galleria Gems
In the Galleria area, Hidden Omakase is a must-visit for sushi lovers. This omakase-only restaurant is disguised as a comic book store and offers a multicourse, Michelin-recommended dining experience. With only 18 seats, it’s an intimate and exclusive experience. Another gem in the area is Juliet, a modern American fine-dining restaurant and steakhouse with an old-Hollywood glam vibe. Behind its retro movie-theater facade, Juliet offers a raw bar, Insta-worthy drinks, and a movie-inspired menu.
The Heights Hotspots
The Heights is home to several speakeasies, including Kanpai Club, a cozy drinking spot with only 10 seats. Accessible through a shared door inside Hando, its sister hand-roll restaurant, Kanpai Club offers craft cocktails, martinis, sake, beer, and wine. Another hotspot is Mèo, a Vietnamese-inspired speakeasy located inside Wokker. With a menu that honors Vietnam and a unique entrance through a cat door, Mèo is a must-visit. Mijo Mezcal Bar, located in a shipping container behind Cantina Barba, is a fun side quest with a delightfully macabre vibe and a mezcal flight that’s one of the best in town.
Washington Avenue Secrets
On Washington Avenue, a pastry shop fronts a hidden speakeasy-style cocktail bar called Sugar Room. With a swanky, 1920s-inspired decor and head-turning cocktails, Sugar Room is the perfect spot to linger. The patio also offers hookah for those who prefer a non-alcoholic option.
Conclusion
Houston’s speakeasies offer a unique and exciting dining experience for those willing to seek them out. From upscale cocktail bars to omakase-only restaurants, these hidden gems provide a world of glamour and sophistication. Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail enthusiast, or just looking for a new adventure, Houston’s best-kept secret restaurants and bars are sure to impress. So, go ahead and play the game of hide-and-seek, and discover the secrets that Houston’s dining scene has to offer.
