Anvil Bar and Refuge
Anvil Bar and Refuge Photos
Business Info
ANVIL BAR AND REFUGE ATMOSPHERE
You might also consider
More like Anvil Bar and Refuge
Recommended Reviews - Anvil Bar and Refuge
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Anvil is a one of the only bars in Houston that has a 100 list of classic cocktails. This 100 list is half off during happy hour 2pm- 5:30pm Everyday open from 2pm-2am One of the only bars offering the biggest selection of cocktails. Service is great and it is spacious inside with more than one bathroom. This bar is classy, clean, dark lit, and it gets packed! Lots of seating but you might have to stand depending on how busy it is. If you haven't been it is worth checking out!
Stopped by with my friend on Saturday and ended up staying for 3 hours! The space is well decorated and not too loud even though it was busy, which we appreciated. Our bartender Katy got us some water shortly after we took our seats at the bar and came back quickly to take our orders. My friend got the Elevated Rosita and really liked it, while I opted for the Pretty in Pink which was also really good. We ended up getting all of their bar food sides (kettle chips, olives, and nuts) and they were all really good! They accidentally spilled almost half of the olives when bringing them to us so they brought us an extra serving of it later to make up for it. Katy was super nice and gave some great recommendations for drinks, even letting us know when a substitution wouldn't work well (ie not doing tequila in a certain martini). For my last cocktail I asked for a white Negroni and she immediately knew what I was talking about and made it perfectly. I've always said that you can tell a lot about a cocktail bar by asking for a white Negroni. Next time I'm in town I'd love to stop by again and try some more of the menu!
I seem to only end up at Anvil pretty late into the evening for "one last drink". They have amazing cocktails and great service. Our bartenders last night were very fast and friendly, and our drinks were AMAZING. My drink was a watermelon rum cocktail that I will probably be thinking about for a long time. I do have to say my one quip with smaller bars does always end up being the noise level, but even with it full and music playing it didn't take away from the experience the way it has in other places.
The bar is so cute! I've never seen so many booths, well like 5 or so but still it's nice to have spacious seating area. Plenty of standing area. It was busy for a Friday night. The bartenders were so attentive and noticed when I walked up and immediately got me a menu. When I was ready to order she came back. It was so quick and the drinks were delicious. I loved the variety on the menu. It got even busier so we headed out but definitely added to the list of places to stop by.
I think I've officially found my little hideaway in Montrose. Anvil is so sexy at night! The vibe gives cool NYC bar but the servers give very neighborhood bar. I literally had to pull myself away from the bar because I had to go home. This is definitely on my list as a regular spot.
Always a great time :) We come here when we need a solid place for a date night or after a long day.
I like to pop in here on "off nights" like M-W when it's fairly low key. On the weekends it gets very very crowded & can be a challenge to get a table or bar seating. The mixologists do a great job of making whatever drink you like or recommending a drink based on your description of your preferred drink profile. Its a pretty dark atmosphere. Gotta use your phone to see the menu but they do craft cocktails well. Parking can be a challenge with some spots across the street. They also have valet parking for $10 (at least that's the weekday price) Anvil is a go to bar for me when I want a well balanced craft cocktail. I also really enjoy their sister bar, Refuge, in the back, upstairs when I want a more intimate, upscale vibe. Drinks & talented mixologists are equally wonderful there.
Loved this bar! It's pretty jammed inside, with limited seating besides the bar. However, I do love the music that they played and the ambiance was nice. I tried the blended margarita, and it had lime sherbet in it. That was a first for me. I will definitely be back!
Love this neighborhood bar in Houston! Their happy hour is excellent, and they're incredibly knowledgeable about their drinks. The menu can be overwhelming, but you really won't be disappointed with whatever you get. Highly recommend the kettle chips and cream cheese dip as a snack! Crunchy and salty in all the best ways. Also super impressed with all their on-tap choices, including on-tap rum!
Solid bar in Houston that we went to while visiting for the weekend. It was pretty busy but we managed to snag seats at the bar. My espresso martini was solid, but I've had better. Good music and friendly bartenders!
Excellent drinks! I visited on my birthday and I'm so glad I did. It wasn't very busy, which nice. We were greeted as soon as we entered and handed a menu and told to order at the bar. After deciding, it didn't take long to prepare our drinks. They were both delicious! It will definitely be a place of return to, I look forward to trying many more drinks.
It was very busy as expected for Saturday night. There were a lot of people coming in and out so we were able to snag 2 seats at the bar fairly quickly. The bartenders are fast and very attentive. As for the drinks, the cocktails are craft with very unique flavors. One of the best bars we've been to.
I was told this is the best cocktail place in the city. I came here on a weekday night and it was pretty busy. We were able to find seats quickly at the bar. Our bartender was very accommodating the music at this place wasn't the best but definitely not the worst. I would come here again for a drink. The espresso martini was perfect.
5 days ago
1 month ago
I can't believe how many times I have passed Anvil but never went there until today. Immaculate vibes if you want a dark speakeasy kind of feel. They present a short menu of signature drinks but have a list of over 100 cocktails and spirits on their website. Overwhelmed, I told the bartender to just make me something sweet. The Charlie Chaplan she presented was fantastic, a perfect mix of sweet and tart. I had no clue what liquor was even in it but I ordered a second immediately. My friend said it's usually packed in there, so a rainy happy hour before the 5 pm rush was perfect. It's Montrose, so parking is scarce, but it's a perfect bar to meet up with a friend or sit solo at the bar and people watch all of the inexplicably unique and beautiful patrons. read more
Visited on a Sunday afternoon from a suggestion at Komodo's. Had the Homebound and the Pliny's Tonic. Being a vodka/soda person neither one disappointed. Both were very refreshing and satisfying. Service was awesome. Definitely coming back! read more
Anvil is a one of the only bars in Houston that has a 100 list of classic cocktails. This 100 list is half off during happy hour 2pm- 5:30pm Everyday open from 2pm-2am One of the only bars offering the biggest selection of cocktails. Service is great and it is spacious inside with more than one bathroom. This bar is classy, clean, dark lit, and it gets packed! Lots of seating but you might have to stand depending on how busy it is. If you haven't been it is worth checking out! read more
Stopped by with my friend on Saturday and ended up staying for 3 hours! The space is well decorated and not too loud even though it was busy, which we appreciated. Our bartender Katy got us some water shortly after we took our seats at the bar and came back quickly to take our orders. My friend got the Elevated Rosita and really liked it, while I opted for the Pretty in Pink which was also really good. We ended up getting all of their bar food sides (kettle chips, olives, and nuts) and they were all really good! They accidentally spilled almost half of the olives when bringing them to us so they brought us an extra serving of it later to make up for it. Katy was super nice and gave some great recommendations for drinks, even letting us know when a substitution wouldn't work well (ie not doing tequila in a certain martini). For my last cocktail I asked for a white Negroni and she immediately knew what I was talking about and made it perfectly. I've always said that you can tell a lot about a cocktail bar by asking for a white Negroni. Next time I'm in town I'd love to stop by again and try some more of the menu! read more
I seem to only end up at Anvil pretty late into the evening for "one last drink". They have amazing cocktails and great service. Our bartenders last night were very fast and friendly, and our drinks were AMAZING. My drink was a watermelon rum cocktail that I will probably be thinking about for a long time. I do have to say my one quip with smaller bars does always end up being the noise level, but even with it full and music playing it didn't take away from the experience the way it has in other places. read more
The bar is so cute! I've never seen so many booths, well like 5 or so but still it's nice to have spacious seating area. Plenty of standing area. It was busy for a Friday night. The bartenders were so attentive and noticed when I walked up and immediately got me a menu. When I was ready to order she came back. It was so quick and the drinks were delicious. I loved the variety on the menu. It got even busier so we headed out but definitely added to the list of places to stop by. read more
23 days ago
I think I've officially found my little hideaway in Montrose. Anvil is so sexy at night! The vibe gives cool NYC bar but the servers give very neighborhood bar. I literally had to pull myself away from the bar because I had to go home. This is definitely on my list as a regular spot. read more
I like to pop in here on "off nights" like M-W when it's fairly low key. On the weekends it gets very very crowded & can be a challenge to get a table or bar seating. The mixologists do a great job of making whatever drink you like or recommending a drink based on your description of your preferred drink profile. Its a pretty dark atmosphere. Gotta use your phone to see the menu but they do craft cocktails well. Parking can be a challenge with some spots across the street. They also have valet parking for $10 (at least that's the weekday price) Anvil is a go to bar for me when I want a well balanced craft cocktail. I also really enjoy their sister bar, Refuge, in the back, upstairs when I want a more intimate, upscale vibe. Drinks & talented mixologists are equally wonderful there. read more
Loved this bar! It's pretty jammed inside, with limited seating besides the bar. However, I do love the music that they played and the ambiance was nice. I tried the blended margarita, and it had lime sherbet in it. That was a first for me. I will definitely be back! read more
7 months ago
Love this neighborhood bar in Houston! Their happy hour is excellent, and they're incredibly knowledgeable about their drinks. The menu can be overwhelming, but you really won't be disappointed with whatever you get. Highly recommend the kettle chips and cream cheese dip as a snack! Crunchy and salty in all the best ways. Also super impressed with all their on-tap choices, including on-tap rum! read more
Excellent drinks! I visited on my birthday and I'm so glad I did. It wasn't very busy, which nice. We were greeted as soon as we entered and handed a menu and told to order at the bar. After deciding, it didn't take long to prepare our drinks. They were both delicious! It will definitely be a place of return to, I look forward to trying many more drinks. read more
1 month ago
It was very busy as expected for Saturday night. There were a lot of people coming in and out so we were able to snag 2 seats at the bar fairly quickly. The bartenders are fast and very attentive. As for the drinks, the cocktails are craft with very unique flavors. One of the best bars we've been to. read more
1 year ago
I was told this is the best cocktail place in the city. I came here on a weekday night and it was pretty busy. We were able to find seats quickly at the bar. Our bartender was very accommodating the music at this place wasn't the best but definitely not the worst. I would come here again for a drink. The espresso martini was perfect. read more
10 months ago
I finally visited Anvil after receiving many rave recommendations from my husband and his friends. I stopped in on a Friday night around 9pm, and the bar was pleasantly full without being crowded. The backdrop of the bar is its extensive liquor shelf which is bright and colorful. There's plenty of room to stand, but if you want to sit I'd recommend arriving earlier to snag a booth. Our server provided us with great drink recommendations before Our drinks were refreshing and festive - perfect for the end of summer. read more
10 months ago
Anvil is a staple in Montrose. While some of the trendy bars come and go in popularity, Anvil remains busy- and for good reason! On a weekend night, it's usually packed. My boyfriend and I recently went on a Thursday early evening and it was still pretty full, but a nice slower pace, where we could hear each other talk. The service is still good on a weekend but even better when they weren't as busy. Our bartender was sweet and funny. We've definitely been there while honoring Dry January and the mocktails are awesome. The cocktails are also always unique and good quality. It is fun to try new ones whenever we are there! read more
Initially walking in, it was loud as expected. The bar was full but despite this, we were quickly provided a menu by a bartender. We eventually found a seat at the bar and the service was amazing. The cocktails were amazing. Great experience overall. Highly recommend checking out. read more
Anvil is nestled in the heart of Montrose, with an excellent drinks menu that accompanies its cozy bar atmosphere. There's bar seating, high tables for standing, and large booths and tables perfect for dates and nights out. I went with a friend for a few drinks to enjoy my first evening in Houston, and the ambiance made for a great first impression. I ordered two Double Windsors, which had my preferred liquor of choice in bourbon. Our drinks came relatively quick and the service checked in on us often, both in ensuring we were satisfied with our drinks and for witty banter. The atmosphere is lively as expected, particularly once it reaches traditional hours when people start going out. There's no formal seating rules, so expect to be on the lookout for seats when arriving (or be ready to stand during more crowded times past 10:00 PM). Great drinks, solid staff interaction, and all you can ask for in a consistently strong bar! read more
The Anvil bar was PACKED on the Fri night I went! Definitely a chill bar with most people standing around waiting for seats to open up. Even so, drinks came out relatively quickly and the servers and bartenders were attentive and kind. The ambiance inside is dark yet lively, but there isn't much seating at all - you have to really pay attention to swoop on a seat when it opens! I ended up getting the Family Affair drink - nonalcoholic since this was the last stop in my group's bar hopping night, and it was delicious!. My friends got the Espresso Martini (not very strong) and the Double Windsor (super strong). Ultimately, it was a great time and atmosphere, and I'd definitely come back! read more
2 months ago
anvil bar is a neighborhood staple. the crowd is mixed, but everyone is there for the stellar cocktails the service is definitely on point! i've been a couple of times and i've been greeted and promptly serviced each time. the decor is simple and chic, which plays as a excellent backdrop for the mixed crowd. don't be shy about talking to bartenders and aking them to make something off menu. they are extremely knowledgeable mixologists and i definitely trust their expertise. 10/10 recommend. bonné santé read more
6 months ago
Impeccable service from bartender Manny. Place was packed and we were hesitant on going in thinking we wouldn't get great service. However, Manny was prompt with service and offering menus as soon as I walked in the door. When seats opened up, he personally introduced himself and shook my hand. I got the Cafe con Whiskey which was expertly crafted. Great atmosphere with great cocktails. read more
Anvil bar is a long-standing trendy little bar in the Montrose area. The ambiance is lively, the service solid, and the drinks handcrafted There is an Anvil menu you can order from with classical cocktails and a variety of other drinks to order. They have a sizable fully stocked bar with many professional bartenders. Each cocktail is a handcrafted work of art I've never seen Anvil empty. There are always people having a great time. It's not a huge space, so, seating can be limited The bartenders are not the broody hipster bartenders with an attitude. I found the our bartender was incredibly friendly, and the service was great As we entered, the bouncer was talking to patrons in front of us that must have been regulars. I thought at first it was a capacity issue and we (and they) had to wait, but no, we had to wait a few minutes for them to catch up until we had our IDs checked so we could go inside. It would have been nice of them to let us go around Some tips: The Mint Julep is fantastic. I rarely order these because bars don't always offer them, but Anvil specializes in this drink (among others) Cheers!! read more
2 years ago
In typical obnoxious coastal elite fashion, I was ready to lower my cocktail standards in Houston, readily accepting a trip where I'd mostly drink beer. But then everyone started recommending Anvil for a fancy cocktail, and I gave in. We rolled up with our group of 5 on a weekend night, fulling expecting a long wait, but we got lucky and got a round table in short time. The cocktail gods smiled upon us. Drinks wise, I always go for anything with mezcal, and the Las Almas, with the sparkling wine and mezcal was a winner. The Loose Canon also stood out to me because I like any drink made with tamarind. There isn't much to speak of regarding the atmosphere. Exposed brick and christmas string lights remind me of bars that were popular in the 2010s, which is totally fine. It works for Anvil. A little high brow, a little mid brow. Anvil set a good standard for me around Houston's cocktail scene. I would totally go back. read more
4 months ago
Great place great bartenders shout out to Gisselle she's the best! If you stop by ask for her. Her energy is amazing and makes amazing drinks! read more
1 year ago
A wonderful craft cocktail experience. I love how you can order things off menu such as a New York sour (which I was dying to try). Very attentive and detail oriented bartenders who clearly know their craft. The only thing I don't love is how sometimes you have to fight to get a seat anywhere but I mean it's a great place so it's going to get pretty crowded. read more
5 months ago
Great service, really enjoyed the drinks! Joana the bartender was awesome, had asked her to make something out of the menu and the drink came out so well. Will def be back when in Houston! read more
2 months ago
11 months ago
Wonderfully quaint little bar. Our bartenderess was amazing and friendly, but not too intrusive. The drinks were spot on as well: Margarita and Old Fashion. read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
BEST BAR VIBES!!!! I love how attentive and friendly the bartenders are, every bar should have a master class at Anvil and learn a thing or two about quality customer service. Come for the drinks stay for the incredible energy. The Sea Isle is a fantastic drink, the mango was great and the rum was perfectly mixed. I also had the champagne cobbler which was good too! I definitely recommend this spot. I love that they play R&B music. read more
Page 1 of 31
More info about Anvil Bar and Refuge
1424 Westheimer Rd
Houston, TX 77006
Montrose
Directions
Visit Website
http://anvilhouston.com
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Services
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Health Score
Anvil Bar and Refuge Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Anvil Bar and Refuge
Any bar food available there or just drinks?
They actually have sandwiches, olives, chips with dip, cheese board.
Does this place have a chill vibe where I can still talk to my friend or it's does it get loud? Looking to visit on a Saturday night. TIA!
It gets pretty loud on a Saturday night.
Is this bar only open until 5:00 p.m. now? New hours on yelp say 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., but website says 4:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m.
No, we are open daily from 4pm-2am. Not sure why Yelp did that.
Did they close?
No we are definitely not closed even though Yelp has marked us as closed for some reason. We've asked them to change this and are waiting.
Is there wifi?
Yes. You just have to get the password from one of the bartenders.
Review Highlights - Anvil Bar and Refuge
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
76 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
3 years ago
17 years ago
17 years ago
2 years ago
10 years ago
17 years ago
7 years ago
9 years ago
12 years ago
10 years ago
12 years ago
3 years ago
12 years ago
13 years ago
10 years ago
13 years ago
11 years ago
13 years ago
13 years ago
Anvil Bar and Refuge - coffee - Updated August 2026
Best of Houston
People found Anvil Bar and Refuge by searching for…
Trending Searches in Houston, TX
Allergy Friendly Restaurants near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Anniversary Dinner near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Appetizers And Drinks near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Asian Dessert near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Asian Fusion near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Avocado Toast near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Banana Latte near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Bars With Outdoor Seating near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Breakfast Drive Thru near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Breakfast Sandwich near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Breakfast To Go near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Bubble Tea near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Cheese Wheel Pasta near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Chicken Parmesan near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Cinnamon Roll near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Coffee near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Coffee Shop To Work At near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Dog Friendly Brunch near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Farm To Table Restaurants near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Focaccia Bread near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Girly Restaurants near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Gluten Free Breakfast near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Gnocchi near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Hot New Bars near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Italian Restaurant near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Laptop Friendly Bars near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Lasagna near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Late Night Happy Hour near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Lobster Bisque near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Lobster Roll near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Martini near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Most Expensive Restaurant near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Muffins near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Neapolitan Pizza near Anvil Bar and Refuge
New American near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Organic Healthy Restaurants near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Restaurants With Private Dining Rooms near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Roof Top Restaurant near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Scones near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Seafood near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Singles Scene near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Small Plates near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Smoothie near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Speakeasy Bars near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Study Spots near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Unique Fun Dining Experiences near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Viral Fruit Pastries near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Waterfront Brunch near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Browse Nearby
BEST of Houston, Texas Restaurants near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Breakfast near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Things to Do near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Desserts near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Cocktail Bars near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Parking near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Lunch near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Boba near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Shopping near Anvil Bar and Refuge
BEST of Houston, Texas Thrift Stores near Anvil Bar and Refuge
Browse Brands
Related Searches in Houston, TX
Best Appetizers to Enjoy Around Houston, Texas
Best Bar Food and Snacks Served in Houston, Texas
Best Clam Chowder Options in Houston, Texas
Best Gluten Free Breakfast Places in Houston, Texas
Best Happy Hour Bars to Visit in Houston, Texas
Best Places for Brunch in Houston, Texas
Best Places for French Toast in Houston, Texas
Best Places for Margaritas in Houston, Texas
Best Places for Poke in Houston, Texas
Best Rooftop Restaurant Experiences in Houston, Texas
Best Sit Down Restaurant Options in Houston, Texas
Best Smoothie Spots and Cafes in Houston, Texas
Best Soul Food Dishes in Houston, Texas
Book Rehearsal Dinner Spots in Houston, Texas
Celebrate With Birthday Dinner in Houston, Texas
Check Out the Hottest Restaurants in Houston, Texas
Cocktail Bars With Food Options in Houston, Texas
Cocktails and Food Pairings in Houston, Texas
Coffee Shops With Free Wifi in Houston, Texas for Your Needs
Cozy Breakfast Cafe Options in Houston, Texas
Cozy Study Cafes Perfect for Work in Houston, Texas
Delicious Soup Spots to Try in Houston, Texas
Delicious Vegan Breakfast Served in Houston, Texas
Dine at a Fancy Restaurant in Houston, Texas Tonight
Discover Authentic Filipino Food in Houston, Texas
Discover Authentic French Restaurants in Houston, Texas
Discover Fresh Acai Choices Available in Houston, Texas
Discover Fresh Organic Coffee in Houston, Texas
Discover Juice Bars & Smoothies in Houston, Texas
Discover Popular Coffeeshops in Houston, Texas Today
Discover Popular Iced Coffee Spots in Houston, Texas
Discover Popular Martini Bars in Houston, Texas
Discover Refreshing Cold Brew in Houston, Texas
Discover the Best Boba Drinks in Houston, Texas
Discover the Best Breweries in Houston, Texas Today
Discover the Best Bubble Tea Spots in Houston, Texas
Discover the Best Macarons Available in Houston, Texas
Discover the Best Romantic Restaurant Options in Houston, Texas
Enjoy Delicious Tapas Near Houston, Texas
Enjoy Dinner and Drinks Deals in Houston, Texas
Enjoy Drinks and Appetizers Near Houston, Texas
Enjoy Free Wifi Connections Across Houston, Texas
Enjoy Fresh Cinnamon Rolls in Houston, Texas
Enjoy Late Night Happy Hour Deals in Houston, Texas
Enjoy Pastries and Coffee Near You in Houston, Texas
Enjoy Patio Dining Options in Houston, Texas
Enjoy Refreshing Mocktails in Houston, Texas
