The 16 Best Bars on Washington Ave, Houston

Throbbing with life and energy, the vibrant Washington Ave in Houston is known for its dynamic bar scene. An iconic stretch that epitomizes the city's nightlife, it's a paradise for those who love to revel in the many facets of evening entertainment.
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, craft beer enthusiast, wine devotee or just savor the energy of a bustling night spot, Washington Ave has a variety of bars waiting to tantalize your taste buds.
- Endless Choices: Offering a broad spectrum of bars ranging from quintessential neighborhood pubs to swanky lounges.
- Unique Atmospheres: Each bar flaunts a unique ambiance perfect for every mood and occasion.
- Eclectic Menus: Relish the diverse food and drink menus meticulously curated to enhance your evening.
- Live Entertainment: Numerous bars on Washington Ave offer live music featuring talented local musicians.
- Great Locations: Accessibility and convenience are hallmarks of Washington Ave’s bar scene.
With several bars dotted along this lively locale, the challenge lies in choosing the best one to suit your style. The following list of The 16 Best Bars on Washington Ave, Houston is designed to alleviate your dilemma and guide you to your ideal night spot. Enjoy the pulse of Houston’s nightlife and let the joyous journey begin!
- 1. NettBar
- 2. Forget Me Not
- 3. Down the Street
- 4. Underdogs Pub
- 5. Betelgeuse Betelgeuse
- 6. Julep
- 7. SoHou Bar
- 8. MAX's Wine Dive
- 9. R Bar
- 10. Porch Swing Pub
- 11. Darkhorse Tavern
- 12. Lincoln Bar
- 13. HandleBar
- 14. Bottled Blonde
- 15. Clutch
- 16. Bar 5306

1. NettBar
Información y Opiniones
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Very laid back atmosphere with plenty of TVs for sports. Delicious food and drinks at reasonable prices.
- Large outdoor area, ideal for enjoying a beer. Offers various activities and a fun vibe.
- Great place to grab a cocktail and a burger, watch a game, and enjoy train booze specials.
- Fun environment with activities like trivia. Prices are fair, although some food portions may be small.

2. Forget Me Not
Información y Opiniones
- A customer described it as a cute vibe place with nice servers and simple yet tasty food.
- Another visitor highlighted the fun vibe, good food, and recommended reserving online for a great experience.
- One reviewer mentioned the great club atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service, suggesting trying other menu items on a return visit.
- Another satisfied patron praised the amazing food, hookah, and top-notch service provided by their bubbly waitress.

3. Down the Street
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- A group of eight enjoyed a relaxed Sunday brunch with amazing drinks and delicious food.
- Outdoor space and vibe are great for brunch, and the bartender Tony was fantastic.
- Chill and comfortable atmosphere, good drinks, and great food make it a go-to neighborhood gem.
- Laidback atmosphere, yummy foods, and good drinks contribute to an enjoyable experience.
Overall, Down the Street has a 4.5-star rating and has received positive feedback for its atmosphere, service, and food offerings. Guests have praised the friendly staff and the variety of dining and drink options available. Visit their website for more information and plan your next visit to this popular spot!

4. Underdogs Pub
Información y Opiniones
- Chill vibe and friendly bartender.
- Great drinks, especially the pie shots.
- Good selection of beer and whiskey with excellent service.
- Dog-friendly atmosphere with welcoming staff.
Whether you're looking for a laid-back hangout spot or a fun night out with friends, Underdogs Pub promises a fantastic experience for all who walk through its doors.

5. Betelgeuse Betelgeuse
Información y Opiniones
- The pizza is awesome, with fresh ingredients and flavorful sauce
- The quirky atmosphere and great outdoor seating make it a fun spot to hang out
- Friendly service and quick delivery add to the overall enjoyable experience
Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing meal or a night out with friends, Betelgeuse Betelgeuse offers a range of services and amenities to make your visit a memorable one.

6. Julep
Información y Opiniones
Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Extensive cocktail menu with varieties of liquors
- Warm and cozy ambiance
- Impeccable service from friendly staff
- Great wine selection

7. SoHou Bar
Información y Opiniones
- The staff is very friendly and the owners are awesome, making it a great spot for events and celebrations.
- The large open concept atmosphere and cozy seating area create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
- The bar is led by women, offering a refreshing change in the sports bar scene.
- The drinks are superb, and the venue's photo ops and games make it the perfect spot for hanging out with friends.
With a ranking of 5.0 and numerous positive reviews, SoHou Bar is definitely a must-visit establishment for anyone looking for a fun and welcoming bar experience in Houston.

8. MAX's Wine Dive
Información y Opiniones
- Comfort Food Brunch! The Shrimp & Grits is a go-to dish, and everything tried has been loved.
- Outdoor seating is fantastic, and the house red wine is flavorful.
- The atmosphere is great, with attentive and friendly staff along with out-of-this-world food.
- Delicious fried lobster tail with smothered crawfish sauce and red velvet pancakes create a spectacular experience.
Customers rave about the menu items, from the shrimp and grits to the fried chicken, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy at MAX's Wine Dive.

9. R Bar
Información y Opiniones
Customers have left positive reviews about their experiences at R Bar:
- Great atmosphere, more of a pub vibe, pet-friendly, and perfect for Sunday hangouts.
- Described as the neighborhood bar with a fantastic beer selection, sports on the screens, and a friendly environment.
- The official Manchester United bar in Houston, ideal for watching games, with a busy yet exciting atmosphere and friendly staff.
- Welcoming and not afraid to chat up strangers, great beer recommendations, and hospitality.
Overall, R Bar is praised for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, excellent selection of drinks, and a great place to watch sporting events or catch up with friends. Whether you're a local regular or a first-time visitor, R Bar is a must-visit spot in Houston for a good time.

10. Porch Swing Pub
Información y Opiniones
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Great food and drinks
- Good vibes and atmosphere
- Generously portioned and reasonably priced food
With a rating of 4.3 stars, Porch Swing Pub is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and welcoming bar experience in Houston.

11. Darkhorse Tavern
Información y Opiniones
- Love the chill vibe and friendly bartenders.
- Slick atmosphere, great selection, immaculate vibes.
- Came here to have a drink with a friend. The happy hour price for my drink wasn't honored when the bill came.
- A good place for getting some occasional beers.
With a ranking of 4.5, it's no wonder that Darkhorse Tavern is a go-to spot for those looking for a relaxed and enjoyable time out. Give it a try and experience it for yourself!

12. Lincoln Bar
Información y Opiniones
The inviting atmosphere at Lincoln Bar caters to a diverse crowd, welcoming groups and tourists alike. Customers have praised the welcoming environment and the casual yet trendy vibe of the bar. With seating options available and amenities like toilets, guests can relax and enjoy their time at the establishment.
Customer reviews highlight a few key points:
- Some patrons were displeased with the overcrowded layout and music selection on busy nights.
- Others praised the attentive and friendly waitstaff, citing memorable experiences like birthday celebrations with sparklers.
- Some customers had mixed experiences with reservation and bottle service, affecting their overall satisfaction.
- Positive feedback included appreciative comments about the great time, friendly service, and enjoyable drinks, making it a highly recommended spot.
Overall, Lincoln Bar provides a dynamic and inclusive space for patrons to socialize and unwind with friends and family, offering a range of offerings from food to cocktails.

13. HandleBar
Información y Opiniones
- This place was a blast. Customers danced, enjoyed the vibe, and had a playful time.
- Great atmosphere, drinks, and music make it a favorite spot for many.
- Cool games, good atmosphere, and friendly bartenders are some of the highlights mentioned by customers.
- Staff is very friendly, drinks are reasonably priced, and the patio is well-equipped for a fun time.
Customers rave about the great beer selection, great cocktails, and fast service provided at HandleBar. The establishment also offers a range of options including outdoor seating, bar games, and more. If you're looking for a fun and vibrant bar in Houston, HandleBar is the place to be.

14. Bottled Blonde
Información y Opiniones
Customers have left 477 reviews about their experiences at Bottled Blonde. Here are some key points from their feedback:
- This is a pretty cool spot with a decent selection of food items and reasonably priced drinks. The service is good, and the staff are nice.
- The service on Mother's Day was amazing, with attentive staff and efficient order taking.
- Some customers mentioned issues with rude security guards, but appreciated the good music and waitstaff.
- Visitors enjoyed the games, music, and service, particularly highlighting the waitress' friendliness and humor.
If you're looking for a place with a casual and trendy atmosphere to enjoy drinks, food, and music, Bottled Blonde is a great choice in Houston.

15. Clutch
Información y Opiniones
Here are some summarized customer reviews:
- Enjoyed a delightful brunch experience with a perfect ambiance and delicious food. Highly recommend the Clutch Breakfast Platter and Mimosa Tower. - May 21, 2024
- Had a great time with excellent service and a vibe at Clutch. The burger was top-notch, and the atmosphere was enjoyable. - February 23, 2024
- Experienced poor hygiene practices with fruits and minimal customer service. - May 20, 2024
- Encountered issues with parking, attire policies, and drinks but found some enjoyment in the music. - June 17, 2023
With its Service options, Accessibility features, and vibrant Atmosphere, Clutch strives to provide a memorable experience for all its patrons.

16. Bar 5306
Información y Opiniones
The bar is known for its unforgettable nights filled with great music, delicious drinks, and a welcoming crowd. Customers have left positive reviews, highlighting the following key points:
- Great music and lively atmosphere
- Amazing service and fun weekend nights
- Special events and attention to detail
However, some negative reviews have also been shared, expressing concerns about security and pricing. Despite mixed feedback, Bar 5306 remains a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a night out in Houston.
Map of Bars on Washington Ave, Houston
Washington Ave in Houston is infamous for its vibrant bar scene. Spanning from the East End to Memorial Park, it features an array of bars to suit every taste. From chic wine lounges to vintage-themed cocktail spots, the diversity is unparalleled. The following map detailing all the bars on Washington Ave will serve as your ultimate guide.
Top-Rated Bars on Washington Ave
There are several highly-rated and recommended bars on Washington Ave. The top ones you must consider visiting according to punters and critics include: The Darkhorse Tavern, which is known for its ambiance and great drinks; the Concrete Cowboy, popular for its lively atmosphere; and Rebels Honky Tonk, loved by fans of country music and dancing. These bars offer a unique experience that matches different interests.
There are also some hidden gems like Lola's Depot, which offers affordable drinks and a relaxed setting; Liberty Station, where you can enjoy your drinks in a large outdoor patio; andBungalow Heights, a great place to enjoy cocktails in a casual atmosphere. These lesser-known bars can often provide a more laid-back, genuine Houston experience.
Typical Opening and Closing times
Bar times in Houston can differ based on the establishment, but typically, bars on Washington Ave open at around 4 pm and close at 2 am. During weekends, some bars like The Darkhorse Tavern and Concrete Cowboy open earlier, often serving brunch from as early as 11 am. Always check with individual businesses to confirm their hours as some may have special events or altered hours.
It's important to note that under Texas law, bars can serve alcohol until 2 am from Monday to Saturday, and on Sunday, they can serve until midnight. Hence, most bars might stop serving drinks a bit earlier to comply with the law, but they do not necessarily close their doors immediately.
On-Site Parking Availability
Several bars on Washington Ave offer on-site parking for their customers. However, parking can be quite challenging during peak hours due to the popularity of these bars and the limited space available. Some bars like the Concrete Cowboy and Lola's Depot have ample parking space, whereas others might only have limited street parking available.
However, most bars are within walking distance from each other, and Houston's reliable ride-sharing options such as Uber and Lyft can prove to be useful particularly if you're planning a night of bar hopping.
The Safety of Washington Ave
Washington Ave is considered one of the safest nightlife destinations in Houston. The area is well-lit, and there's usually a substantial crowd, even late at night, which tends to deter criminal activity. The Houston Police Department also maintains a significant presence in the area, particularly on weekends, further boosting safety.
As with any city, however, it's always important to be vigilant of your surroundings, particularly late at night. Keep personal belongings close at hand, take authorized transportation services, and never leave drinks unattended. These simple precautions can ensure your evening out in Washington Ave is both fun and safe.
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