It’s summer and it’s hot and sticky, leaving many of us parched and in need of lagers, craft cocktails, or cocktail pops to cool off. As local dog lovers know, bar fun is that much more enjoyable when our furry friends can tag along. Here, then, are some of Houston’s favorite dog-friendly bars where you and Fido can mix it up and mingle.
Axelrad
1517 Alabama St.
This Midtown favorite features a massive courtyard with picnic tables and hammocks. With a bar inside and the outdoor beerstreamer dispensing alcoholic drinks, you won’t have to go far to get your fill. Expect rotating food trucks and Luigi’s on standby for you to nosh on; also keep an eye out for their chef pop-ups. Parking can get a bit hectic, but anyone willing to walk, bike, Uber, or use any sort of public transit will be rewarded with a 5 percent discount.
Better Luck Tomorrow
544 Yale St.
For something a bit smaller and intimate, head to Bobby Heugel and Justin Yu’s brainchild. The crew behind the popular Heights bar are a talented bunch and cocktails are on point. The team has recently introduced summer pitchers that can be filled with martinis, mojitos, Manhattans, French 75s, or Negroni (minimum of three guests required). The happy-hour-and-a-half runs weekdays from 3:30 pm to 5 pm — and keep an eye of for weather specials: For example, if it is hotter than 95 degrees, highballs are half-off regular price.
Underdogs Pub
4212 Washington Ave.
This Washington haunt is one of the few in Houston that allows four-legged friends to be off-leash. Here, pooches can freely roam the patio and even inside the pub as you imbibe. Underdogs offers 18 taps and craft beer from local breweries and abroad, as well as spirits and cocktails. Look for specials on draft beers on Thursdays, as all 18 taps are $4 and Wednesdays all Irish, American, and Scotch whiskies are $3 off.
Nettbar
4504 Nett St.
Keeping it local in the Washington corridor and off the beaten tracks is Nettbar, an early-1900s home converted to a fun, neighborhood bar with a patio, picnic tables, a Bocce Ball court, giant Jenga, giant four square, and cornhole. Rotating food trucks provide grub and TVs inside and out showcase sports. As the bar is next to the train tracks, you can expect the apropos $2 train shots.
Bobcat Teddy’s Icehouse
2803 White Oak Dr.
This Heights newcomer offers an expanded outdoor patio, plenty of TVs, and an excellent bar program. Locals walking their pooches stop in to sip on Aperol Spritzes or slam back a Jameson and a Lone Star. With plenty of outdoor seating and specials throughout the week, this cat makes for a perfect neighborhood dog haunt.
8th Wonder Brewery
2202 Dallas St.
Fans of this brewery have dubbed it "Wonder World." Stop by to sip, try your hand at cornhole, and nibble at the Eatsie Boys truck. Don’t miss out on the dope Instagram op courtesy of The Beatles statues and the "We Love Houston" sign. The brewery offers plenty of real estate out back for friends of the two and four-legged persuasion.
Truck Yard
2118 Lamar St Suite 150
One of the hottest bars in EaDo — and all of Houston — even boasts a ferris wheel. Best bet at this packed hot spot is outdoor seating, where you can nosh on Truck Yard's cheesesteaks or items from the rotating food trucks, while you people watch (and dog watch). Adding to the party is live music Thursday through Sunday.
West Alabama Ice House
1919 W Alabama St.
This Montrose mainstay and local favorite offers plenty of room for your furry friend. Ping-pong tables and a basketball court keep things sporty, or you can camp out in front of the TVs or projector screen for movie night. The neighboring Tacos Tierra Caliente food truck is an absolute must-try.
Heights Bier Garten
1433 N Shepherd Dr. Ste 1
The Bier Garten's main draw is the huge courtyard that offers tons of seating and cooling fans throughout. With 94 taps of beer, you’ll find something to drink; food offerings include a Cubano sandwich, a pork belly cobb salad, and even a pork shank platter. How can you say no?
The New Potato
3519 Clinton Dr.
Located in Fifth Ward, The New Potato is a hidden gem. Enjoy a comfortable patio space and 29 craft beers on tap, or sip on the spirits and specialty bourbon and whiskey, if that’s more your speed. As your dogs chill, you can enjoy 10-inch, thin-crust personal pies and the relaxing neighborhood vibe.
Axelrad patio
