MEET THE TASTEMAKERS

Houston's 11 best bars of 2025 craft cocktails and community

Let’s toast to the nominees for Bar of the Year in the 2025 CultureMap Tastemaker Awards. These Houston bars, which range from longtime favorites to fresh-to-the-scene bars, caught the attention of our panel of local restaurant industry experts in 2025.

Each is unique in its own right, but their dedication to impeccable ingredients, inventive cocktails, and genuine hospitality has led to their inclusion in the Tastemaker Awards.

Which bar will win? Find out April 3 at the Tastemaker Awards party at Silver Street Studios. We’ll dine on bites from this year’s nominated restaurants and sip cocktails from our sponsors before revealing the winners in our short and sweet ceremony.

Buy your tickets now before they sell out.

Here are the nominees for Bar of the Year:

Bandista
It might not be the most clandestine speakeasy (you must reserve via OpenTable, after all), but it still delivers the exclusivity and theatrical flair of something forbidden. Tucked behind a bookshelf in the Four Seasons Houston, this Latin-influenced bar only seats 20. Intricate drinks featuring premium liquors are the focus at Bandista, such as the Ménage à Trois: a three-part experience that starts with a fog of cognac perfume, continues with a made-to-order Brandy Alexander ice cream, and ends with a neat pour of cognac. Bandista also regularly hosts guest bartenders from some of the world's top bars.

Catbirds
This Montrose dive bar has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood hang scene since 1995. Bobby Heugel (Better Luck Tomorrow, Refuge, Anvil) and business partner Peter Jahnke swooped in to save the beloved spot in 2023. They’ve kept it close to the original vibe, from throwback happy hour prices of $3.50 or less for beer and wells to remaining open 365 days a year.

Clarkwood
Housed in the historic Star Engraving Building, this intimate wine and cocktail bar is known for its Old World charm, earthy elegance, and lush greenery. Dressed-to-impress patrons gather around the horseshoe-shaped bar to sip on artfully presented, handcrafted cocktails, including the signature espresso martini with a toasted marshmallow. A 1,500-square-foot courtyard bar was added this past fall, meaning even more stylish folk can bask in Clarkwood’s elegant atmosphere.

Double Trouble
Top-notch espressos and skillfully crafted cocktails share equal billing at Double Trouble. The bar is dedicated to welcoming all, whether to its patio overlooking Main Street or inside for tiki-inspired drinks. Patrons can jump-start the day with coffee or cocktails, with the bar serving signatures like the frozen Suffering Bastard with bourbon and gin beginning at 11 am. Double Trouble is celebrating its 13th anniversary in 2025, showing that its playful energy and unwavering hospitality continue to charm.

EZ’s Liquor Lounge
EZ’s Liquor Lounge aims for the welcoming feel of a retro Texas bar complete with vintage neon signs, a pool table, Formica-topped tables, and quirky taxidermy that recalls the smoke-filled dens of decades past with delightful nostalgia. This isn’t a dive bar, with the well-crafted cocktails, spirits list, and attention to service elevating it above the average hole-in-the-wall. Rather, consider it a tribute to the easygoing, no-frills bars of the past.

Johnny's Gold Brick
Every holiday season, this inviting Heights neighborhood bar transforms into the ultimate Christmas pop-up, decked out in tinsel galore. Even without the festive decor, Johnny’s Gold Brick retains a loyal following with $9.99 house cocktails and a menu that bartenders refresh monthly with new creations. For 10 years, the relaxed locale has earned fans thanks to its skilled bartenders and weekly specials — like Tuesday’s $9.99 bundle of a burger, tater tots, and an Old Fashioned.

Lee's
Formerly Lees Den, this intimate cocktail lounge underwent a refresh, emerging at the beginning of 2025 as an eclectic haven that combines attention to detail with a determination to be a little different. Helmed by Máté Hartai of Local Foods Group, Lee’s menu features captivating libations like the Black Hat — a mixture of kombu, nori, rye, vermouth, and cuttlefish ink — as well as “the smalls,” miniature cocktails for lighter sipping or sampling. Patrons can wander in from its sister restaurant, Milton’s (a Tastemakers Best New Restaurant nominee), to discover this moody, slightly hidden gem.

The Library
A spot offering wine, books, and cheese might be considered heaven on earth for some, and The Library has all three. As CultureMap wine columnist Chris Shepherd wrote last year, "This place is about as legit as a wine bar gets — the list is awesome. The depth of varietals, producers, and vintages is quite impressive, and the staff is about as nice and knowledgeable as they come." He also wrote, "Price points are really fantastic — you can go in and spend anywhere from $35 to whatever your heart and budget desire."

Melrose
Newly opened but already making waves, Melrose blends sophistication with a relaxed atmosphere. The drinks are a draw, as is the small bites menu developed by chef Emmanuel Chavez of Tatemó for those feeling peckish. Co-owner Army Sadeghi (of Clarkwood) joins Brandon Duliakas and Dan Wierck (the duo behind Clutch and Concrete Cowboy) to create a sleek, contemporary interior, a lush outdoor courtyard, and an intimate upstairs lounge that accommodates just 12 seats.

Nickel City
A favorite import from Austin, Nickel City prides itself on good-natured hospitality and an unpretentious vibe. Expect a no-fuss atmosphere that delivers a “beer and a shot” combo alongside specialty cocktails and a solid range of spirits — especially whiskey. Coming soon, rum lovers will be able to find heaven at Nickel City’s Florida Room, a dedicated rum bar that's been in the works for a year. The bar’s daily specials, fun-themed nights, and affordable prices draw a diverse crowd of locals and industry folks, a clear indication that something special is unfolding in EaDo.

Reserve 101
Whiskey takes center stage at this bar that underwent a comprehensive interior renovation in 2024. Whether patrons are stopping by after catching a game at either Daikin Park or Toyota Center or starting the night with a meticulously poured dram, Reserve 101’s collection of 1,000 bottles from 14 countries ensures something for every palate. Both whiskey connoisseurs and newbies can savor vintage pours or indulge in the bar’s most reordered cocktail: the New York Sour, a clarified take on the classic.

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The Tastemaker Awards ceremony is brought to you by Stella Artois, Chardon, PicMe Events, and more to be announced. A portion of proceeds will benefit our nonprofit partner, the Southern Smoke Foundation.

Photo by Julie Soefer

Enjoy mini cocktails and small plates at Lee's

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Soup spoon season

10 Houston chefs share 15 top soups that offer comfort and sustenance

Photo by Louis Lamson Quy

Louis Lamson Quy, co-owner of Alora, is a loyal diner at Phanh Ky thanks to its Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang, which reminds him of his hometown, Saigon.

Happy soup season to all who celebrate. The weather has finally dipped low enough in Houston that diners can enjoy a hearty bowl of soup without breaking a sweat. With so many delicious selections at Houston restaurants, we turned to Houston's chef and other restaurant industry experts to find out which brothy creations are worth seeking out.

The only rule? No one could nominate a soup from their own restaurant. Here’s what they had to say.

Dana East, line cook, Uchi Houston

To Dana East of Uchi Houston, the caldo de res at Ruchi Mexican Grille’s Reliant Stadium location “feels like home to me… Even though I’m not Mexican.”

“The caldo de res at that specific Ruchi's tastes like it was made in a Mexican grandmother's kitchen, or like soups that I would eat for family meal that kitchens I work in would make when everybody is sick during the winter,” she says.

East also recommends the Bogotano at Mi Pueblito, a soup made with three kinds of potatoes that she says “imbue a smoky flavor in it that is borderline addictive.”

“I could eat an entire pot of that stuff,” she says. “They serve it with fresh cream and capers that take it to the next level.”

Garrett Rice, owner, Bayou Butchers

The cream of crab soup at Loch Bar is a highlight that Garrett Rice of Bayou Butchers looks forward to after work.

“It’s a simple dish that lets a really good ingredient shine, and they certainly don’t shy away from the crab in true Baltimore fashion,” Rice says. “With Loch Bar’s kitchen open late, I can always count on a cup of crab soup waiting for me after a long shift.”

German Mosquera, executive chef, Long Weekend

When German Mosquera of Long Weekend wants ramen, he heads to Mensho, the Japan-based chain that just opened its second Houston-area location on the border of River Oaks and Montrose.

“For me, it’s all about the broth,” he says. “Mensho’s tori paitan has a rich, velvety texture and incredible umami flavor from start to finish. The perfectly jammy egg adds another layer of richness that keeps me coming back. I also love the intimate Tokyo-style counter seating. It makes for an authentic ramen experience.”

Kerry Pauly, owner, KP’s Kitchen

The matzo ball soup at Kenny and Ziggy’s is “in a league of its own,” according to Kerry Pauly of KP’s Kitchen. He describes it as “rich, flavorful, and pure comfort whether you’re sick or feeling great.”

Louis Lamson Quy, co-owner, Alora

“My favorite go-to spot for soup has always been Phanh Ky,” says Louis Lamson Quy of Alora, a Peruvian-Vietnamese fusion restaurant in Montrose. “They specialize in hủ tiếu nam vang, a noodle dish with roots tracing back to Teochew Chinese immigrants in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It’s also one of the most popular noodle dishes in my hometown, Saigon, so it always feels a little like home to me.

“To me, Phanh Ky is one of the OGs in the game,” he adds. “I first tried it when I moved to Houston nine years ago, and I’ve been coming back ever since. There’s just something comforting about a place that stays consistent after all these years.”

Maria Christie, operator and general manager, Christie’s Seafood and Steaks

“I love, love the lemon chicken soup at Harry’s,” says Maria Christie of Christie’s Seafood and Steaks. "For me the soup at Harry’s reminds me of the way my mom would make the lemon soup.”

“And the lentil soup (at Anonymous Cafe) is really hearty and it just reminds me of cold winter days (whenever we get those in Houston!),” she adds. “It’s absolutely perfect because it has a hint of tomato in it. Deeeelicious!”

Her sister, Kathy Christie, who serves as Christie's director of catering, is a fan of Little Pappasito's chicken tortilla soup. “Whenever you are under the weather, it totally hits the spot,” Kathy says. She adds extra lime to hers.

Nicole Routhier, partner and culinary ambassador, Le Colonial

The bun bo hue at Pho Quynh, a small Vietnamese restaurant located inside 99 Ranch Market, is a year round must for Nicole Routhier of Le Colonial.

“Their spicy, deeply flavorful broth is super comforting and among the best in town. The chef is generous with the noodles and toppings of tender beef brisket, pork shank, gio Hue (steamed pork sausage with black peppercorns), and blood pudding. The soup comes with a side of shaved cabbage, crunchy bean sprouts, Vietnamese mint (rau ram), and a wedge of lime to be added to the soup as you eat. Two tiny containers of fermented shrimp sauce (mam tom) and spicy chili oil are also provided so you can add even more umami to the soup,” Routhier says. “Bun bo hue is a full meal on its own, and my idea of heaven in a bowl.”

Oscar Juarez, founder and owner, Make It Nice Hospitality

The pozole verde at Cuchara is a simple and flavorful dish that private chef Oscar Juarez of Make It Nice Hospitality says he would recommend to anyone.

“The broth has a nice balance of richness and acidity, and it’s just one of those dishes that’s comforting without being too heavy,” Juarez says. “Growing up with Mexican food, I have a real appreciation for dishes like this.”

Rafael Nasr, founder, Craft Pita

Rafael Nasr of Craft Pita says he has “a burning passion for North China’s sizzling rice soup.”

He describes it as an intensely flavored, crystal-clear broth with bits of pork and tiny shrimp to fill you up.

“The carrot, napa cabbage, and wood ear mushrooms add umami and I am convinced have healing powers,” he says. “The flash fried rice adds texture and flavor at the same time and whether served table side or at home provide dinner and a show. I eat this soup and talk about it more than any soup in Houston.”

Nasr’s pro tip: Add a bit of soy sauce and lots of North China’s housemade green chili oil to the soup.

Ziggy Gruber, chef and owner, Kenny & Ziggy’s

Ziggy Gruber of Kenny & Ziggy’s has a couple of favorite soups in town, which isn’t surprising since his own deli is known for its bowl selection. Among his favorites is the clam chowder at Capital Grille, which he says captures the true flavor of the East Coast with plenty of clams and just the right amount of thyme.

He also loves the French onion soup at Etoile Cuisine et Bar.

“The stock is very rich and the onions are extracted so the flavor is permeated throughout the soup. I like that it has multiple croutons rather than one crouton in the soup,” he says. “And then the cheese on top!”

Another top pick for Ziggy is the tortilla soup at Grace’s.“It is complicated in such a good way, with the crunchy bits of tortillas and chicken skin, with the coolness of the avocado, and it has just the right amount of spice,” he says.

$Phanh Ky H\u1ee7 Ti\u1ebfu Nam Vang,$

Photo by Louis Lamson Quy

Louis Lamson Quy, co-owner of Alora, is a loyal diner at Phanh Ky thanks to its Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang, which reminds him of his hometown, Saigon.

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