Channel turn-of-the-century Paris in this jewel box space with its massive antique bar, or sip in the serenity of the adjacent, art-filled Library.  For those in the know, The Bar offers a truly unique getaway with stiff drinks and a stellar wine list amidst the grandeur of the landmark Fondren mansion, home to La Colombe d’Or Hotel.

The setting at Bar Malatesta in the Hotel Granduca is straight out of old-world Italy. This cozy corner in Uptown Park is great for savoring a drink before dinner or enjoying a cocktail after a shopping trip to the near-by Galleria. The bar offers complimentary appetizers plus light jazz Thursday through Saturday nights. 

Monarch Lounge at the Hotel ZaZa is known as much for its libations as for attracting a crowd of local cognescenti. The main room is decorated with dark wood and the spacious terrace overlooks Houston's famous Mecom Fountain — no better place for a cocktail al fresco on a cool fall or spring night.

This hipster Euro-inspired watering hole, located on the second floor of Hotel Sorella in Houston's CityCentre, features an outdoor lounge and adjacent infinity pool.  With its starlit ceiling and central fireplace, Monnalisa offers killer contemporary ambiance to go with your cocktail.

Adjacent to Quattro in the Four Seasons Hotel downtown, QBAR's sophisticated decor includes floor-to-ceiling silver beads, red leather banquettes and a 50-foot long granite bar. It's a great place to hide from a nagging boss or escape the downtown hustle. Specials include a $4 cocktail happy hour and bites menu.

Line & Lariat at Hotel Icon attracts the business savvy and Houston hipsters alike.  Start happy hour early at this upscale lounge where weekday drink specials start at 2:00 p.m. and go until 7:00 p.m. The $5 beverage deals include well drinks, regional draft beers, house red/white wine and prosecco.