Menu

Houston, Texas

The 16 Best Downtown Happy Hour Spots in Houston

Are you looking for the perfect spot to wind down after work in Houston? Look no further. This comprehensive guide features The 16 Best Downtown Happy Hour Spots in Houston.

Whether you’re in search of great deals on drinks, scrumptious food, or simply a vibrant ambience, explore places in the heart of Houston where you can relax and unwind. Get ready to discover your new favorite happy hour hangout!

So, why wait? Grab your buddies or round up your co-workers and dive into this ultimate guide to The 16 Best Downtown Happy Hour Spots in Houston.

How this guide is ordered

This ranking was put together by our Houston editors from businesses serving this part of the city, favoring those with a durable local reputation, confirmed contact details and a clear record in what they do. We return to it periodically as Houston grows and changes.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Quick view

Featured options

Select an option to see its summary.

#1
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
4.54,060 reviews
#2
Hearsay Market Square
4.41,969 reviews
#3
MKT Bar
4.41,321 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium#1
What stands out

  • Trivian night atmosphere is lively and fun.

  • Excellent food, such as loaded tots with egg toppers.

  • Good service, although more domestic beer choices would be appreciated.

  • Enjoy $5 local draft beers with wings and pizza on Sundays.

  • Experience a vibrant atmosphere and fantastic flavors.

  • Cheers to a great time and delicious food.

  • Large selection of curated beers on tap.

  • Relaxed and helpful servers.

  • Great place for happy hour with $5 drafts.

  • Neat environment with great beer selection.

  • Highlight on food is the pretzel appetizer.

  • Some food items could use improvements in certain areas.

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

4.54,060 reviews
705 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium is a popular restaurant located in Houston, TX. They offer a wide range of services, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers appreciate their fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, and sport highlights.

Hearsay Market Square#2
What stands out

  • We were happy that we chose to come here before seeing a show at the Hobby Center, which is just a short drive down the road. It’s a great, trendy place for a quick bite, or to sit down and visit for a while. I loved the decor and the feel of the place.

  • Isaiah was our waiter and he was fun to talk to. The food came out fast, hot, and was delicious!!! The ambiance of the building is very nice with all of the history of it and the Market Square. You gotta go!!!

  • Fast and friendly service, laid-back atmosphere. All food fantastic - bread board solid, cheesesteak egg rolls with sweet chili sauce are an absolute must-try. Outstanding chocolate cheesecake for dessert!

  • Small place with big taste. The service, atmosphere, and location were all good. Had beef short rib with Brussels sprouts and son had patty melt. Both really good with big portions. Highly recommend when in downtown Houston for a quick stop off.

Hearsay Market Square

4.41,969 reviews
218 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Hearsay Market Square is a popular American restaurant located in Houston, TX. This establishment offers a variety of services and features, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers appreciate the fast service, great dessert, and live music provided at this restaurant.

MKT Bar#3
What stands out

  • Great food and excellent service, especially during steak night.

  • Cozy and chill vibe with a good menu selection and knowledgeable waitstaff.

  • Great location with live music and good food and drink.

  • Excellent staff that can handle large parties and provide stress-free service.

MKT Bar

4.41,321 reviews
1001 Austin St, Houston, TX 77010, United States

MKT Bar is a renowned New American restaurant in Houston that offers a wide range of services and features for its customers. This establishment takes pride in providing fast service along with a selection of great coffee and desserts. With a cozy and trendy atmosphere, customers can enjoy a variety of offerings, including halal food, vegetarian options, spirits, and wine.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Overall, MKT Bar is highly recommended for its diverse offerings, welcoming atmosphere, and top-notch service that cater to various customer needs and preferences.

Dean's Downtown#4
What stands out

  • Located right on Main Street, Dean's Downtown boasts an enclosed patio area with fans, making it a perfect spot for any weather.

  • Customers rave about the fast service and great selection of beers and cocktails, making it an ideal destination for a night out.

  • The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, appealing to a wide range of clientele.

  • Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings such as happy hour drinks, live music, and bar games, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

  • One customer enjoyed the spacious interior, comfortable seating, and great service, making it an ideal spot for a first date.

  • Another visitor praised the bar's fast service, free entry, and lively atmosphere, promising to return for future visits.

  • A reviewer highlighted the creative and unique atmosphere of Dean's Downtown, emphasizing the great experience they had playing chess with one of the staff members.

  • Another patron commended the cozy ambiance, good drink selection, and easy-going staff, making it a must-visit spot for a relaxed evening out.

Dean's Downtown

4.5767 reviews
316 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Dean's Downtown is a lively bar located in the heart of Houston, Texas. Known for its spacious interior, comfortable seating, and excellent service, this bar is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The bar offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating and a welcoming atmosphere for both dine-in and casual hangouts.

The reviews speak for themselves:

Dean's Downtown is more than just a bar; it's a vibrant destination for anyone looking to unwind, socialize, and enjoy a memorable night out in Houston.

Around the Corner#5
What stands out

  • Vibe- Chill atmosphere with great music, plenty of seating, and friendly service.

  • Food and drinks- Enjoyable cocktails and tasty food options.

  • Atmosphere- Relaxed and welcoming, perfect for socializing and unwinding.

  • Parking- Easy access to parking spaces in the area.

Around the Corner

4.5582 reviews
1510 Hutchins St, Houston, TX 77003, United States

Around the Corner is a popular bar located in Houston, TX. The establishment offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy fast service and a diverse selection of beverages including great beer, cocktails, and wine. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, appealing to both locals and tourists.

Customers have left positive reviews praising the large outside patio, dinner specials, and the variety of drinks available. They also highlight the friendly staff and the quality of the food, recommending dishes like the Crispy Cauliflower and the steak special. If you're looking for a laid-back spot with great vibes and delicious drinks, Around the Corner is the place to be.

The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar#6
What stands out

  • The food was absolutely fantastic with perfect seasoning and portion sizes.

  • The wings were crispy and delicious, with a unique Asian-inspired flavor.

  • Great atmosphere, welcoming staff, and highly recommended dishes make it a must-visit spot in Houston.

  • Amazing food options like pulled pork tacos and butter cake dessert, along with excellent service and atmosphere.

The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar

4.22,409 reviews
1000 Prairie St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar is a renowned Southern restaurant in Houston that offers a variety of services to cater to all dining preferences. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, takeaway, dine-in options, and more. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great dessert options, and a sporty atmosphere perfect for a casual dining experience.

With a ranking of 4.2 stars and a total of 2409 reviews, customers have raved about their exceptional experiences at The Moonshiners. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Visit The Moonshiners to experience the best of Southern cuisine with a hint of exceptional service and ambiance!

Hearsay On The Green#7
What stands out

  • This is a great place for date night dinners or casual hangouts, offering a mix of fine dining and casual vibes.

  • Customers have enjoyed mouth-watering dishes like crab chowder, lamb chops, and juicy steaks.

  • The restaurant has been commended for its prompt and friendly service, making the dining experience memorable.

  • Visitors have appreciated the fair prices for the quality and quantity of food served.

Hearsay On The Green

4.31,091 reviews
1515 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77010, United States

Hearsay On The Green is a popular New American restaurant located in Houston that offers a variety of dining options and amenities. With a ranking of 4.3, it is known for its fast service and great desserts. Customers have praised the restaurant for its friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and delicious food offerings.

Little Dipper Bar#8
What stands out

  • Loved the vibe and decor of the place, but some found the service lacking consistency.

  • Great Old Fashioned cocktails and friendly bar staff create a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Cute, cozy spot with happy hour specials and a photobooth for added fun.

  • Super friendly bartenders, good selection of beer and liquor, and a fabulous outdoor area for people watching.

Little Dipper Bar

4.5314 reviews
304 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Little Dipper Bar is a cozy and trendy spot in Houston that offers a great selection of cocktails and beers. With amenities like outdoor seating and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, it caters to a diverse crowd, including groups and tourists. The bar's lively yet not too loud atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Bayou & Bottle#9
What stands out

  • Excellent service from the knowledgeable and friendly staff.

  • Delicious food and beverages with a wide selection to choose from.

  • Beautiful setting within the Four Seasons hotel, offering an elegant ambiance.

Bayou & Bottle

4.5285 reviews
1300 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010, United States

Bayou & Bottle is a charming cafe located in Houston, Texas. The cafe offers a variety of services and features to ensure a delightful experience for its customers. Some of the highlighted services include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

Customers have praised Bayou & Bottle for its exceptional service and inviting atmosphere. Here are some key points from their reviews:

If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink, Bayou & Bottle is the place to be! The cafe welcomes both locals and tourists with its warm hospitality and delectable offerings.

McIntyre's Downtown#10
What stands out

  • A large gathering of friends enjoyed the quick friendly bar service and good beer selection in a fun sports bar atmosphere.

  • The multi-story downtown bar with arcade games is a great event space but parking can be challenging for large groups.

  • Visitors appreciate the sound for games and the spacious top floor with a lively atmosphere.

  • The bar offers a stunning view, diverse entertainment options, delicious food, and friendly staff, promising an unforgettable experience.

McIntyre's Downtown

4.4451 reviews
901 Commerce St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

McIntyre's Downtown is a popular bar located in Houston, TX. This lively establishment offers a variety of services and features that cater to its customers' needs. With highlights like bar games, fast service, great beer selection, and live music, patrons are sure to have a great time. The bar also provides outdoor seating, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy al fresco dining.

Customer reviews rave about McIntyre's, with an average rating of 4.4. Here are some key points from the reviews:

Overall, McIntyre's Downtown is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and vibrant bar experience in Houston.

Biggio's#11
What stands out

  • Fast service

  • Great beer selection

  • Great cocktails

  • Sport atmosphere

  • Varied menu with delicious food and drinks

  • Long wait times for tables and food

  • Great atmosphere for sports enthusiasts

Biggio's

4.12,165 reviews
1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010, United States

Biggio's is a popular sports bar located in Houston, TX, known for its great atmosphere and tasty food and drinks. With a ranking of 4.1 stars, it is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Some of the key features of Biggio's include:

Customers have left mixed reviews about their experiences at Biggio's. While some praise the food and service, others mention long wait times and high prices. The reviews highlight:

Whether you're looking for a place to catch a game or enjoy a casual meal with friends, Biggio's offers a relaxed setting with a wide range of offerings to suit your tastes. Visit their website for more information and stop by to experience it for yourself!

Lilly & Bloom#12
What stands out

  • Great ambiance, seating, bartenders, and hookah. Attentive and awesome staff.

  • Quiet and comfortable place with a kind bartender who helps customers with beer selection.

  • Warm and friendly staff, good music, and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a speak easy/hip hop bar.

  • Excellent happy hour and mixology bar with up-to-date music selection and great bartenders.

Lilly & Bloom

4.5189 reviews
110 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Lilly & Bloom is a popular Bar located in Houston, TX. This vibrant spot offers a range of services, including Outdoor seating, Dine-in, and Live music. They are known for their Great beer selection, Great cocktails, and Great wine list. Customers have praised the Fast service and welcoming Atmosphere.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Cellar7#13
What stands out

  • The restaurant has been commended for its flavorful dishes and reasonable prices.

  • Customers have particularly enjoyed the crispy brussels sprouts and chipotle chicken.

  • The staff members, including bartenders like Sam, have been highly praised for their excellent service and personable demeanor.

  • Cellar7's happy hour menu is highly recommended for its variety of appetizers and drinks at very reasonable prices.

Cellar7

4.4217 reviews
610 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Cellar7 is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of Houston. Known for its fast service and delicious comfort food, this restaurant offers a wide range of options for its customers to enjoy. Some of the highlights of Cellar7 include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services. Customers have praised this establishment for its cosy and trendy atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for families, groups, and solo diners alike.

SOHO Garden HTX#14
What stands out

  • Lazy Sunday afternoons are great with a cocktail, good weather, and no disturbances.

  • Great passion fruit Mojito and a colorful atmosphere with cool photo opportunities.

  • Phenomenal ambiance like a garden with beautiful decor, excellent service, and consistent drinks.

  • A hidden treasure with cute refreshing drinks, great atmosphere, and fun music.

SOHO Garden HTX

4.3372 reviews
408 Main St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

SOHO Garden HTX is a trendy cocktail bar located in Houston, Texas. They offer a range of services and features to create a unique experience for their customers, such as outdoor seating, dine-in, great cocktails, and live performances. Customers have highlighted several key points in their reviews:

Lawless Spirits and Kitchen#15
What stands out

  • The space is incredibly beautiful with friendly and helpful staff.

  • The food and beverages are exceptional, making it a budget-friendly option for events.

  • Guests praise the accessibility features and attentive service provided by the team.

  • Customers enjoyed the fantastic drinks and chic ambiance of the bar, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

Lawless Spirits and Kitchen

4.4202 reviews
909 Texas Ave #2a, Houston, TX 77002, United States

Lawless Spirits and Kitchen is a renowned bar located in Houston, TX, offering a wide range of services and features to its customers. With a ranking of 4.4, this establishment is known for its fast service, great beer selection, and great cocktails. Customers have left glowing reviews, summarizing their experiences in a few key points:

These reviews reflect the overall positive atmosphere and quality experience that Lawless Spirits and Kitchen provides to its patrons.

El Big Bad#16
What stands out

  • Anastasia provided exceptional customer service, making the experience one to remember.

  • The variety of custom tequilas and unique flavors set El Big Bad apart from other bars in Houston.

  • Guests enjoy the lively atmosphere, delicious margaritas, and good vibes of the second-floor patio.

  • Despite some changes to the service format, the food, especially the chicken enchiladas and pumpkin margarita, remains consistently excellent.

El Big Bad

4.01,455 reviews
419 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002, United States

El Big Bad is a vibrant restaurant located in Houston, TX. They offer a variety of services and features to ensure a memorable dining experience for their customers. Some of the service options available include outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The highlights of this establishment are fast service, great cocktails, rooftop seating, and a sporty atmosphere.

Customers have left positive reviews for El Big Bad, highlighting a few key points:

With a rating of 4.0 and over 1455 reviews, El Big Bad continues to attract customers with its flavorful offerings, friendly staff, and inviting atmosphere. Visit their website for more information and don't miss the opportunity to enjoy their delicious cocktails and comforting food options.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Flying Saucer Draught Emporium 4.54,060
#2Hearsay Market Square 4.41,969
#3MKT Bar 4.41,321
#4Dean's Downtown 4.5767
#5Around the Corner 4.5582
#6The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar 4.22,409
#7Hearsay On The Green 4.31,091
#8Little Dipper Bar 4.5314
#9Bayou & Bottle 4.5285
#10McIntyre's Downtown 4.4451
#11Biggio's 4.12,165
#12Lilly & Bloom 4.5189
#13Cellar7 4.4217
#14SOHO Garden HTX 4.3372
#15Lawless Spirits and Kitchen 4.4202
#16El Big Bad 4.01,455

For businesses

Run a business?

Manage or add my business

Map and areas

Map of Downtown Happy Hour Spots in Houston

In the heart of the Bayou City, you'll find an exhilarating mix of world-class dining and exciting nightlife. To elevate your after-work experience, we have curated a comprehensive map of all the downtown Houston happy hour locations. Use this as your guide to finding the best happy hour specials, making your evenings more enjoyable and affordable.

How to choose Downtown Happy Hour Spots in Houston, Texas

  1. Wide variety: Explore a range of places, from upscale lounges to laid-back local pubs.
  2. Best deals: Enjoy the best drink and food discounts that Houston has to offer.
  3. Reviews: Interested in what others think of these spots? Gain insights from user ratings and reviews.
  4. Location: Find the perfect hangout in the perfect location - close to work, home, or public transport.

Frequently asked questions

What is a happy hour?

Happy hour is a time of day when bars, restaurants, and other establishments offer drink and food specials at discounted prices. It typically occurs in the late afternoon or early evening, allowing people to enjoy a few drinks and bites after work or before dinner. During happy hour, customers can take advantage of deals such as discounted beers, wines, cocktails, and appetizers. It is a popular way for establishments to attract customers during slower times and for people to socialize and unwind with friends or colleagues. Many places in downtown Houston have happy hour specials, making it a great way to explore the city's nightlife scene without breaking the bank.

Where can I find the best happy hour in downtown?

Downtown Houston is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and lounges that offer fantastic happy hour deals. Some popular spots include: Exploring different establishments in downtown Houston can help you discover hidden gems and find the perfect spot for your next happy hour gathering. Petty Cash: Known for its delicious cocktails and small plates, Petty Cash offers a lively happy hour with discounted drinks and food. Barringer Bar: This cozy speakeasy-style bar has a great selection of craft cocktails and beers, making it a favorite among locals for happy hour. Cottonwood: With a large outdoor patio and rotating selection of beers on tap, Cottonwood is a great spot to enjoy happy hour specials with friends.

When is the best time to go to a downtown happy hour?

The timing of happy hour specials varies by establishment, but it typically falls between 4pm and 7pm on weekdays. This allows people to stop by after work and enjoy discounted drinks and food before heading home or out for the evening. Many places in downtown Houston offer extended happy hour specials on certain days of the week, so it's worth checking out different spots to see which ones align with your schedule and preferences. Keep in mind that happy hour can get crowded, especially in popular areas like downtown Houston, so arriving early can help you snag a seat and enjoy the specials without feeling rushed.

Are there any food options during happy hour in downtown Houston?

Yes, many establishments in downtown Houston offer discounted food options during happy hour in addition to drinks. You can find a variety of appetizers, small plates, and snacks to enjoy while sipping on your favorite cocktail or beer. Some places even have special happy hour menus that feature a selection of discounted dishes, making it a great opportunity to sample different items without breaking the bank. Whether you're in the mood for sliders, tacos, wings, or charcuterie boards, you can find a range of food options to pair with your drinks during happy hour in downtown Houston.

Related guides

The 16 Best Country Bars in HoustonThe 16 Best Night Clubs for 21 and Up in Houston, TXThe 16 Best Live Music Events in Houston on Saturday Night