Introduction to Lee’s Bar
A Houston bar is gaining national attention after being named one of the best new bars in the country. Bon Appètit has included Lee’s in Rice Village in its list of The 9 Best New Bars of 2025. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the bar’s unique blend of creative cocktails and welcoming atmosphere.
What Makes Lee’s Stand Out
Published last week, the list highlights new bars in various cities, ranging from well-known cocktail destinations like New York and New Orleans to a bar in Madison, Wisconsin, inspired by the Great British Bake-Off. According to Bon Appètit, these bars remind us that going out is not just about drinking, but about experiencing community, creativity, and craft. Lee’s is the only Texas establishment to make the list, a notable achievement considering the state’s vibrant bar scene.
Background and Concept
Open since January, Lee’s is the companion cocktail bar to Milton’s, a nostalgic Italian-American restaurant opened by Local Foods Group last year. The bar is named after the owner’s mother, Benjy Levit, just as Milton’s is named after his father. This personal touch is reflected in the bar’s warm and inviting atmosphere, which has earned it a CultureMap Tastemaker Award Bar of the Year nomination.
Unique Cocktails and Atmosphere
Bon Appètit recognizes Lee’s for its innovative cocktails, such as the Black Hat, a black Manhattan made with cuttlefish ink, and the Pale Blue Eyes, an Old Fashioned featuring clarified blue corn syrup. The magazine notes that much of the inspiration at Lee’s is understated, from drink names referencing the Velvet Underground to complex mixology. This attention to detail and creativity has contributed to the bar’s national recognition.
Reaction and Personnel Changes
"I am extremely honored for Lee’s to be recognized on such a short, meaningful list by Bon Appètit," Levit said in a statement. "The article describes a great bar as being about ‘mood, memory, effortless hospitality, and a sweet suspension of time.’ It’s everything we strive for at Lee’s and across all Local Foods Group concepts." Shortly before the recognition, the bar underwent a personnel change, with director of bars Máte Hartai leaving the company. Hartai, a seasoned cocktail expert, created the menu that earned Lee’s its award. He has been replaced by former March bartender Chad Matson, who will manage both Lee’s and Milton’s.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lee’s bar has made a significant impact on the national bar scene, earning a spot on Bon Appètit’s list of The 9 Best New Bars of 2025. With its unique cocktails, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to creativity and craft, Lee’s is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a exceptional bar experience. As the bar continues to evolve and grow, it’s clear that it will remain a staple in the Houston bar scene for years to come.
