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    Boozy News

    A damn good drink: New OKRA charity bar finds a home in a historic downtownbuilding

    Sarah Rufca
    Jul 16, 2012 | 1:34 pm
    • The site of OKRA's new charity bar is historic — and right downtown.
      Courtesy Photo
    • The building used to house the Casino Saloon.
      Courtesy Illustration

    The group of restaurant and bar owners behind OKRA, the Organized Kooperative on Restaurant Affairs, has opened several new high-profile concepts around Houston lately, including Underbelly, Hay Merchant, Oxheart, and (coming soon) Pass & Provisions. But that hasn't stopped them from moving forward on a promised charity bar, coming in November to the former Red Cat Jazz Café space downtown.

    The currently unnamed charity bar "gives OKRA an outlet to support the community that supports our businesses every day,” member Justin Yu of Oxheart said in a statement. The menu will feature spirits as well as local and favorite beers plus "a small collaborative food program" from members including Paulie's, The Modular and Revival Market

    Located in the historic district near Market Square Park, the building dates back to the 1880s and originally housed the Casino Saloon.

    Once open, 100 percent of the bar's proceeds will go to support local organizations and social causes. Each month OKRA will select four nominees and patrons can pick their favorite charity to benefit, receiving one vote to cast for each drink purchased. OKRA will also serve as an event space for charities and organizations.

    The space selected for the OKRA charity bar reflects the members' commitment to honoring and preserving the city. Located in the historic district near Market Square Park, the building dates back to the 1880s and originally housed the Casino Saloon.

    The historic space features an intact circle arch and barrel vault ceilings, as well as a "central, oval shaped bar surrounded by brick walls decorated with gas light fixtures and a high glass ceiling in the rear of the bar."

    Are you looking forward to the new charity bar? Suggest a name in the comments.

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    news/restaurants-bars

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    'Hidden' Houston bar offers private lockers for wine and whiskey lovers

    Eric Sandler
    Nov 6, 2026 | 4:00 pm
    Hidden Cellar Aye Candy bar speakeasy
    Photo by Hungry AF Media
    The Hidden Cellars opens on Saturday, November 7.

    A speakeasy within a speakeasy sounds like the premise of a Saturday Night Live sketch, but it’s really happening at a Spring Branch bar. Opening this Saturday, November 7, the Hidden Cellar is a new concept within Aye Candy.

    While Aye Candy’s focus is on cocktails, Hidden Cellar is devoted to wine and whiskey. With an entrance that’s literally hidden behind a painting in Aye Candy, Hidden Cellar offers an even more intimate environment than its host. The space features a long bar and lockers that will allow those who pay a fee to keep their favorite bottles stored for private consumption.


    View this post on Instagram
    A post shared by Nahima Ortega Houston Foodie | Houston Hot Spots | Cocktails (@houston5oclock)


    “The concept is designed to welcome both seasoned enthusiasts and guests simply interested in discovering something new,” a release states. “Whether enjoying a familiar whiskey, exploring a new wine, or asking the team for a recommendation, the experience emphasizes thoughtful selections, hospitality, and the pleasure of finding something worth returning for.”

    Cristy Velasco, her mother Mely, and brother Rafael opened Aye Candy in May 2024. Inspired by speakeasies in Mexico City, patrons enter the cocktail bar through a small candy shop at the entrance. Once they walk through the storefront, visitors will find a dimly lit lounge with banquettes for small groups and couches for larger gatherings.

    The Hidden Cellar will celebrate its grand opening with music by Tropical Muses beginning at 9 pm. Reservations are available by messaging the bar on Instagram.

    Hidden Cellar Aye Candy bar speakeasy

    Photo by Hungry AF Media

    The Hidden Cellars opens on Saturday, November 7.

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    news/restaurants-bars
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