by MeredithDeliso - 349 Reviews - 13 List
Move over, specialty cocktails. Whatever the drink du jour may be, it can't hold a candle to the classics--Manhattans, old fashioneds, martinis with a perfect green olive. They're proper drinks, something Don Draper would sip. And you can count on Houston's top bars, both old school and new, to do them justice. (Photo: Flickr / TheCulinaryGeek)
Updated: April 05, 2010
The Mediterranean cuisine tends to get all the attention at this Upper Kirby spot, despite the prominent liquor in its name, but you?d be foolish not to order from the drink menu. While taking in the swanky scene, sip on a whiskey sour or another classic cocktail, such as the margarita or Gibson.
When it opened three years ago, this downtown bar was shooting to be the place for cocktails in town. It might not have knocked Anvil from its cocktail perch, but it's not for lack of trying. See for yourself with the gin-gin mule, a classic-style libation meticulously made with Hendrick's gin, ginger beer, simple syrup and lime juice.
For a more laid-back feel, Reserve 101 is your spot. The east downtown whiskey and martini bar has more than 180 whiskeys at its disposal, and it likes to share, hosting frequent complimentary whiskey tastings. During the week from 2pm to 6pm, Reserve 101's signature cocktails are also half off. Our money's always on the Sazerac.
This refined martini and cocktail bar has been serving thirsty Houstonians for nearly 40 years. The unmarked downstairs door gives off a speakeasy vibe, which works well, given that martinis are the name of the game.
The Heights venue just got some serious cocktail cred. Every Tuesday, it hosts Anvil vet Justin T. Burrow (@beardandbitters) behind the bar, where he works his magic along with a rotating cast of bartenders. Expect classics such as the Manhattan, old fashioned and gimlet in what the bar is calling its Open Jukebox night. It's boozy bliss at $7 a glass.
