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    Bandista

    4.3 (80 reviews)
    Ultra High-EndCocktail Bars, Speakeasies
    Closed 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)

    Bandista Photos

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    Recommended Reviews - Bandista

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    Brittney K.

    I'm a sucker for a good speakeasy, so when I saw there was one within walking distance of our hotel during our Houston trip, I had to check it out. It instantly shot to the top of my speakeasy favorites list. I loved that they greeted us with a welcome cocktail and an amuse-bouche. This was such a fun and unexpected touch. Every cocktail on the menu sounded perfectly curated, and it was honestly hard to choose. I ended up trying two, and the Un-Crusta-Ble was incredible, so complex, unique, and flavorful. Already dreaming about going back!

    Sweet Mezcal to start
    Belly G.

    First time I'd heard of Bandista was when it was recognized as one of the top 100 Cocktail bars in the United States by 'Top 50'. And the first thing that came to mind was, 'how come I'd never heard of this place? I've got to check this place out!!' Located inside the Four Seasons Hotel with very limited seating, I made a reservation for three to come here. Upon arriving at the Four Season and not knowing where to go, we asked the check-in desk and were informed that someone would come get us. A nice lady showed up not too long after and took us up to the 2nd floor through the service elevator and through the kitchen before we got to an area with bookcase for a wall. The lady asked us to punch in the code to open the bookcase to enter the lounge and 'open sesame!!' My friends and I had a superb experience here. The mixologists suggested drinks and also created drinks based on what we'd told them we liked. The drinks are a bit (okay, a lot) on the high side. So be ready to spend if you decide to come here. I also have to say that this would make a great place for a date because you can have an actual conversation. Maybe not for a first date because I wouldn't recommend paying $30+ for one drink on a first date, but hey you do you.

    Rob Ahoy
    Sarah G.

    Ever since friends told us about Bandista (though they didn't have reservations and couldn't get in), I've been wanting to try it. We decided to go for my husband's belated birthday (and this was his first speakeasy experience). The drinks did NOT disappoint - nor did the people watching. We love a good 1920s-feeling vibe, and this absolutely had it. Josh was our bartender and was phenomenal at explaining the menu and making our drinks. I could watch the bartenders all day. Just a heads up - there aren't food offerings. We ate in the area and stopped by for some post-dinner drinks.

    Our table
    Barret L.

    High-end speakeasy with a fun library wall hidden entrance in the upper levels of the Four Seasons hotel downtown. Elaborate, fun drinks - they even have one that is a ship in a bottle! The waitstaff and bartenders are happy to help you make your decision - lots of options to choose from.

    Debbie O.

    Initial impressions at Bandista (after we walked through the back alleys of the hotel to get to the door, and entered) was an intimate space that felt perfect for our group of 4 to celebrate. When we got to our seats, we found crumbs and spills of food from the previous party. They had not cleaned (shocking considering this is at a four seasons). I asked the hostess if they could clean that up for us and she said "of course", apologized and went off to find someone to help. She returned with a lady who was dressed like the bartenders, and this lady, appeared to have a problem with my asking for the space to be cleaned. She said "it is a bar, thats what happens" right before cleaning. And while true, it is a bar that takes reservations, and is associated with the four seasons. You can clean the tables before a party arrives. After that, a gentleman from the bar brought a menu and stayed with us the rest of the night. This gentleman is the reason why this review is a 4 star! He walked us though menu highlights and took our order. Service remained strong with him. The drinks were creative, balanced and deliciously. We came here because Bandista was named the best bar in Texas. I am not sure if I necessarily agree with the title, but the drinks were good.

    Free cocktail while ordering
    Bradley L.

    Me and some friends went to Bandista last night, and honestly, I wasn't overly impressed. Bandista is supposed to be one of Houston's top-tier cocktail spots. It's hidden behind a bookshelf inside the Four Seasons and has a whole speakeasy vibe. One of the reasons we came was to check it out after seeing it on the list of North America's Best Bars. We definitely showed up expecting something special. But the vibe just didn't match the reputation. Everything started off kind of "eh." We had a reservation for 10:45 PM, and while I know this might seem minor, it took about 10 to 15 minutes to seat us. For a place with such a curated and intimate setup, that kind of delay felt off. A group sat near us, and two people from that group were basically making out the entire time. There was even some not-so-discreet hand stuff going on. It really killed the mood and made the space feel way less classy than it's made out to be. Ordering drinks took longer than expected, and when we were ready to close out, the bartender brought us the check after all our glasses were already empty, then disappeared for another 10 minutes before taking payment. The drinks were fine, but nothing really wowed us. For the price point and hype, it all just felt underwhelming. We ended up heading next door to Reserve 101 instead. 3 stars for the vibe before it was brought down. Has potential to be 5.

    The Story
    Briana H.

    This hidden speakeasy is located inside the Four Seasons in downtown Houston. Reservations are required but we got one walking up to the hotel receptionist. We waited about 5 minutes for someone to come down a grab us. We were taken into an elevator, then escorted to the hidden speakeasy. It was a fun experience. The off grid routes really play into the speakeasy feel. This isn't your usual bar. Their cocktails are beyond well thought out & the server is knowledgeable about the entire menu. This is a great spot for a group nightcap which is exactly what we did while in town for AfroTech.

    Waters
    Joanne C.

    First off the entrance isn't what I see on IG. But after a convo with the waiter, who is also the bartender, informed us that the bookshelf entrance is still there however it's a shared space with an event room. So if someone books it then you can't enter that way. Bummer but the other entrance is just as interesting. Walking into the four season go straight to the check in counter and let them know you have reservations for Bandista. They communicate via walkie talkies and give you an option to go up the stairs or elevator. I chose stairs. When you get to the top then you are greeted by another hostess who navigates you threw the kitchen to the door that leads into the bar. The decor is on point. There is bar seating that then leads to a small room that cozy with chairs and couches. Now the drink prices are steep. All the drinks in the holiday menu are $25. The regular menu is pretty price. Maybe because you get an experience with it. I had the chapuline's return and that was pretty taste. The foam part on the top taste like a grasshopper drink and I love grasshoppers. Wallow in self pity was refreshing. More of a summer drink to me than a festive christmas drink. Now I didn't venture off the holiday menu but my friend did order off the regular menu.and got the writer's block. She thought it was ok and not really worth $42 dollars. They do not serve food so before to eat a little something before coming. Our server was really nice, gave great descriptions of the drinks, and checked on us often. Definite a vibe but only go if you are willing to spend the money for the drinks

    Desh M.

    As a speakeasy and cocktail fan, I had been wanting to try Bandista for some time. We made reservations for a Friday night for a group of friends. Upon entering, we were a bit surprised that we were taken up through the back of a kitchen to enter the speakeasy. That was a bit odd. However, entering the bar using the code was cool, and the vibe was great! Our waiter was great - he was engaging and pointed us to recommendations. The downside was that the cocktails weren't that great. These are expensive cocktails - and so we expected unique presentations or taste. While the cocktails were served in some interesting ways, they just didn't taste particularly impressive. The Ritual drink, which was served for 2, had a cool presentation in a skull but really just tasted like fruit punch. I definitely won't be back unfortunately.

    Bar area
    Chris P.

    This spot is all about the vibe, presentation, and experience, which is very 1920s speakeasy lounge with a Latin ambiance. It's well appointed with great cocktails that bring it. It's located within the Four Seasons downtown so if you're driving here your parking options will be parking garages, street parking, or valet. Otherwise, grab a ride share! Once inside, check-in at the lobby and then you'll be escorted to the bar that's located behind a coded bookcase. We were sat at the bar and the menu is inspired by a loteria card set. There are several cocktail choices on the menu including a few seasonal options. Sitting at the bar was awesome because the preparation and presentation of each cocktail is worth it. The service is great, the bartenders are attentive and always making sure you have what you are seeking. The one item to note here is the pricing is quite steep just for a cocktail so be prepared. That said, there is some really spectacularly crafted cocktails. Overall, I recommend anyone looking to have an experience while enjoying a craft cocktail, check it out.

    Espresso Martini
    Shambrika S.

    My bestie and I were in need of a good vibe and a good cocktail. Bandista hit both for us. This sexy little hideaway inside of the Four Seasons Hotel in Houston,TX is accessible (via reservation) but gives you the feel of being the only person in the room. The price point for cocktails is no less than $20, which in my exploration of curated cocktails I am not surprised at all. But each drink packs its own unique experience. I enjoyed 2 cocktails, the first was a gin cocktail that the mixologist came up with because I noticed they had a specific gin that not many places carry but should. Condesa Gin. The second was what many call a Freezer Martini, they made it super cold with dry ice and baby was it strong!

    Brandi J.

    A cool experience! We had friends in town and wanted to have a fun experience. Bandista checked all the boxes. The location was easily accessible. We entered the main front entrance and the staff was very helpful. Less than a five minute wait later, we were escorted to the speakeasy. The decor was beautiful and the staff were very inviting. Our host was top notch. He was professionally dressed, and very personable. We had a great time over the two hours we spent in the space.

    Wide selection of spirits, including zero proof/non-alcoholic options.
    Christian M.

    Sad to go to Bandista for the first time tonight for my birthday and have such a lackluster experience. While the decor was nice and the drinks were tasty (yummy, creative), the service left much to be desired. The hostess was sweet, but the bartenders seemed annoyed (cracking jokes at our expense) and cold overall. I wouldn't have thought much of it except that the older white couple next to us received a whole fire show with the same drink order, and the younger white couple on our other side received multiple bourbon samples, even though they seemed like novices to the spirit and I asked for a bourbon drink specifically (none on the menu). My husband and I were only spoken to when they believed we were ready to order/leave, while they introduced themselves to these other couples and engaged them in friendly conversation. You'd think a bar that espouses such ties to Mexican history would make sure their staff showed less prejudice and could try to make all customers feel welcomed, but perhaps it's too much to ask? We don't see ourselves heading back or recommending this place to friends. After all, if you cant get decent service on your birthday, what hope is there for other days in the year?

    The Story

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    1 year ago

    Zachary was a great asset! Fun, informative and attentive. Cannot wait to go back. His recommendation for drinks was spot on.

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    Sam was amazing! Ambience is so lovely, drinks are strong two will be enough 3 is pushing it

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    Overpriced drinks that aren't even using very high end alcohol. Cool ambiance but I would not go again. Drinks are not anything special

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    3 years ago

    The best drinks in Houston and service to top notch. If you here visiting Houston it's a must

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    2 years ago

    Fantastic intimate ambience with great service and delicious drinks. A real speak easy

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    Page 2 of 2

    Ask the Community - Bandista

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    Behind Closed Doors

    Behind Closed Doors

    4.5
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    On my recent trip to Houston!…read more When I was searching for dowtown bars and dancing, Behind Closed Doors popped up. It looked dark, clubbish, and fun (exactly what I was looking for) and I couldn't wait to come here. After a 25 minute Uber ride we were downtown and walking to our destination. At first we could not find it but thankfully a nice gentlemen showed us where it was. Upon walking in, darkness with these bright lights paved our way. We sat down at the bar, but realized dancing did not start until 10pm. The bartender came over and said to us "we have a speakasy behind door #3" we were like WHAT! Let's go. So, we walked down the dark hallway and pushed open door #3 (hence the name) to find this super cool speakeasy bar. Dim lights, really modern decor, comfy suede chairs and best of all, some really great cocktails. If you are ever in Downtown Houston, I highly recommend you coming here. I promise you will have the best time. We did not stay for dancing.

    Behind Closed Doors is a cool downtown "speakeasy" experience. Each room has its own vibe and…read moremusic, which makes it feel like you're discovering something new as you move around. The drinks were solid, and the overall atmosphere was definitely a vibe. We went on a Saturday evening, so it was pretty crowded, but once we found our spot in the Gold Room, we stayed there most of the night. Great music, great energy, and a unique concept. Definitely worth checking out if you're looking for something different for a night out. Not sure how it took me this long to stumble in here. Parking is what it is downtown so, there's that.

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    Marfreless

    Marfreless

    3.9
    (180 reviews)
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    I was there for 8 minutes, here's what I learned: this is a swingers bar. Whether you're a couple…read moreor not, they do stuff upstairs separate from the stuff downstairs. When people in reviews say this place is dark, I mean "the lights are almost out" dark. The bouncer told me he's seen it all upstairs...orgies, girl-on-girl, gangbangs, swingers, you name it....it's not exactly a casual speakeasy. You need to plan a night here if it's your prerogative. The upstairs is couples only, but the bouncer told me that if you'd slip him $20 then you can go upstairs and try your luck. The pictures they show you are brightened. This place is nearly pitch black. And I'm not saying this to blow up anyone's spot, it probably is a great spot for couples but it just wasn't my scene, especially when I vouched that it was a good place for me and my guy friend to chill. Also, the bartender wouldn't give me and my friend the time of day. I was really excited to see how this place made drinks and they wouldn't even service me and my friend...she just was checking her social media. I might come back here one day with a girlfriend I know VERY well, but as for now I'll keep my change and go somewhere else

    Had a chance to stop in for a nightcap on a Sunday night around 10pm. This place came heavily…read morerecommended and since I'm a carefully crafted cocktail lover, I had to make an appearance. I also heard there is a sexy couples thing that happens upstairs. Didnt have a significant other, so I have to take everyone's word for it lol. The place is located in a mall area with no signage. Very dim place which is right up my alley. Bartender seemed like a very capable guy, so I went with a oaxacan old fashioned (mezcal based) and it was decent. The downstairs bar area is nice and there is also comfy seating available nearby kinda in the cut. I definitely plan on coming back to Marfreless on a another visit

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    Bar area
    Replace these chairs or at least buy some chairs covers. It looks gross. I can't imagine the material can be properly sanitized.

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    Replace these chairs or at least buy some chairs covers. It looks gross. I can't imagine the material can be properly sanitized.
    Hidden Bar

    Hidden Bar

    4.5
    (61 reviews)
    4.1 mi

    Now THIS is a speakeasy. I had no idea that I was going to get this experience when coming to…read moreHouston, but I couldn't be happier. The origami ceiling, lively bar, friendly staff, unique cocktails, fun bathroom, and photo booth in the corner made for an unforgettable experience. My friend said it was the busiest he had ever seen the place, and it was loud. But we got some awesome drinks that I swore I could've taken pics of -- the lighting was a little crazy, so I think I ultimately changed my mind with that. One was the periscope which was a refreshing and summery gin drink... And I think I tried the naked and famous too because I like mezcal. I had already eaten so I skipped the restaurant the speakeasy's connected to, but I cannot wait to return to Houston outside of a Con so I can really go all out on exploring. It was an amazing way to end my first night!

    Super cute speakeasy hidden inside a sushi restaurant. We went on a weekday evening and had no…read moretrouble getting a table. I ordered the Side to the Sun Rises (gin, yuzu, mint, cucumber) which was light, refreshing, and well balanced. I would recommend it if you enjoy gin-based cocktails with a slightly fruity flavor. My friends really enjoyed their drinks as well. They have all day happy hour on Sundays/Mondays. We did not get a chance to try the food, but the menu looked great. Overall, a fun spot with great vibes and definitely worth checking out!

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    Love the decor!
    Love the decor!
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    Ceiling
    CASE Chocolates

    CASE Chocolates

    4.6
    (51 reviews)
    1.4 mi

    Soft life, sweet treats, and a little mystery is exactly how a girls' night should feel. The…read moreultimate girls night out in Houston is a Case Chocolates. Every Wednesday, they host a midweek indulgence for the ladies: complimentary champagne, signature chocolate, and curated sounds inside this one-of-a-kind chocolate speakeasy. Come for the immersive chocolate experience. Stay for the seductive, late-night vibes. If you're in Houston and looking for a cute girls night out, unique date night, or a speakeasy experience, add this to your bucket list immediately. It's intimate, indulgent, and just different enough to make your night feel special. Now there are levels to this elevated experience. Here's the simplest breakdown according to their mixologist Tim: 1. Opening Hour: 2 infused chocolates, 1 chocolate medallion, a mixed drink, and a welcome spritz 2. Guided Tasting: 3 courses of drinks and chocolates 3. The Journey: 5 courses of drinks, chocolates, and other bites. Come hungry! You're encouraged to book a reservation through their website. But since we went on Wednesday for the ladies night, we were able to just go right in. I'm doing chemo so I can't drink or have the alcohol infused chocolate but I still had a great time. Sober folks can also enjoy this place. I got a cherry mocktail and it was the best mocktail I ever drank. They had two chocolate bon bons that weren't infused with alcohol and then all of the flat medallions are also not infused. They were sweet enough to send me home with some alcohol infused chocolates to have once I finish my chemo. We got there around 7 and didn't leave until the place was closing down. The DJ was amazing and she made the atmosphere feel more like a Saturday night.

    To start, when you arrive, you will ring the doorbell for them to come let you in, which I guess…read moreconsidering the space makes sense. The store front is very tiny, it could fit maybe 6 people fairly comfortably. They do have a speak easy space for their tastings, which is an interesting concept, which I'll touch on later. Effectively, they have different unique shapes of chocolate that are liquid filled with alcoholic and non-alcoholic liqueurs. Think licor 43, gin, bourbon, whiskey, tequila, etc. The chocolates themselves are good, there wasn't any that I disliked and I'd say the carajillo was one of my favorites. All that said, I think this can be hit or miss with some folks. I like them, whereas I can see how it has a bit of a flash in the pan type taste. It hits fast and then, that's it.Personally, I can get past that probably and could easily eat 10 in rapid fashion. Where this place loses my attention and where I struggle is the pricing. Value is always subjective and I'm sure some will find these to be well worth their price. For reference, I think it's 4 for $22, 8 for $34, when I recently visited. I just didn't find them to be worth that pricing model, particularly when there are other brands that you can get at a lower price and similar fillings. At the end of the day, I think this is worth it for an experience or date, particularly if you're going to go in for the tasting. Think, wine and cheese, in this case, cocktails and chocolates. It's $65 a person for the experience. Overall, I'm glad to see a boutique shop like this that's locally owned by a young, ambitious entrepreneur. My two cents, price lower and there is likely a higher amount of return customers for the chocolates, but I'll save you, the reader, the take on an entire business model diatribe here.

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    Final chocolates
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    Welcome Cocktail and Chocoaltes
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    Segreto Lounge

    Segreto Lounge

    4.4
    (36 reviews)
    5.7 mi

    Located next to Lombardi's, Segreto Lounge is one of Houston's best secrets in the Galleria…read more Delicious cocktails mixed with either live music or ambient upbeat house tunes help make this a premier hang out spot after dinner or if you want to have a relaxing moment with your crew. As for drinks, they are pricy due to the atmosphere/setting but they are quite tasty. Bartenders put a lot of love and detail into concocting them and it shows. Once you pick up your drink, you can either sit at the bar or one of the tables and lounge around; or (if you're adventurous) come up to the front and get your dance on. One thing I enjoyed about this spot was how my girlfriend and I could have a conversation with one another and not have to shout due to the volume. They serve food here too if you're hungry but I'm mainly here for the adult beverages, music, and vibes!

    Segreto is one sexy, fun place. The drinks are on the pricier side of life but the entertainment…read moreand atmosphere make up for it. Come put together, bring your fun attitude and dance shoes or sit at the table and head bounce, but either way you'll love the live music and the DJ afterwards. Pro tip....Get there early if you don't have a reservation so that you can snag a bar seat or possibly be seated at a table. If at a table with no rezy be prepared to have to get up when the reserved party gets there though.

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    Entrance to Segreto Lounge with signage and roped entry.
    Entrance to Segreto Lounge with signage and roped entry.
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    Guests toasting signature cocktails, "Little Segretos" at Segreto Lounge.
    Credence

    Credence

    4.4
    (260 reviews)
    10.4 mi
    Family-owned & operated
    Locally owned & operated

    5//5 on food. Highlight of the night was definitely the dry aged duck. They say it's for 2 but…read morehonestly I think it's more for 3! There was still a ton left over. Loved the creme brulee for dessert! Had the Dead Flower to drink and that was probably my favorite mocktail! 5/5 on service as well. Our server had great recommendations for drinks and food. He was also super attentive. 5/5 on ambiance. Was definitely giving an upscale vibe.

    After hearing non stop great things about Credence from friends and on social media, we finally…read morewent for dinner the other night to celebrate my birthday with some friends. The dining room is chic and feels very upscale but comfortable with a large open fire kitchen that was really fun to watch while dining. They were very on top of service with both our dining captain and waiter checking on us throughout the evening. For appetizers we ordered the deviled crabs, tuna tostada and wood roasted carrots. All were great but I especially loved the carrots which were cooked and seasoned perfectly. For my main course I had the chicken and dumplings, husband got the NY strip, our friends shared the whole fish and we had the cabbage and crab rice as sides. Everyone was very happy with both their main courses and the side dishes. We were too stuffed to order dessert but they sent out a s'mores inspired sunday for my birthday which was both thoughtful and sublime. Overall we were very impressed with our meal. Food was delicious but veeeery indulgent. We will be back.

    Photos
    Credence
    Credence
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    Off The Record

    Off The Record

    4.0
    (52 reviews)
    0.5 mi

    My daughter and I went to Off The Record on a Thursday night to have a drink, and it happened to be…read moreR&B night. The female DJ was amazing and kept the energy going all night. We loved the decor, especially the area leading to the bathroom which is beautifully designed, although we were not allowed to take pictures. It was really fun seeing which records made the wall and reminiscing about the songs I grew up with. The venue has a lot of open dance floor space but limited seating. We were not able to see the upstairs area since it was closed that night. It can get a little loud, but we still enjoyed the vibes, the crowd, and of course the music. Just a heads up, they do add a service charge to your bill. Overall, Off The Record is a stylish spot with great music, a lively atmosphere, and a cool R&B night experience.

    We had such an amazing night out in the city at Off The Record. My friends and I arrived around…read more10:30pm after walking through downtown Houston. The vibes were perfect right away, white a giant poster wall at the front entrance, but it gets even better after walking into the main area. There was various vinyl decor on the walls, which was beautifully curated to compliment each other. The dj was playing a mix of R&B and Hiphop, both current and a 2000s throwback vibe. I ordered a Cosmopolitan at the bar while my friend ordered a Lemon Drop Martini, and we both thoroughly enjoyed our drinks. I also ordered a couple green tea shots since my friend never had one before. The only thing that was a bummer is the automatic 20% gratuity added, but that didn't dampen our night. We stayed until a little after 12am just dancing, enjoying the music, and appreciating this gem in downtown Houston.

    Photos
    Upstairs lounge
    Upstairs lounge
    Bar & projector
    Bar & projector
    Records

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    Records
    Refuge

    Refuge

    4.4
    (97 reviews)
    2.2 mi
    $$

    I've wanted to check this place out for a while so I was so excited to stop by! Speakeasies always…read morehave the best, most creative drinks. We went to the upstairs area which was dimly lit and played 80s/90s hip hop. We tried few drinks. Lion's mane tail, brown butter washed whisky, mushroom (which I found so unique). It was quite strong and was nice to switch up from the usual old fashions we try. Second drink was sharp turn. It was super fresh and crisp. Clear as water but I definitely felt it. Service was really good here too. I like that the bartenders all create their signature seasonal drinks so they genuinely are so well versed when describing the drink menu.

    Refuge is such a high quality bar. You can tell that they put immense care into the quality of…read moretheir drinks and service. I ordered 2 mocktails and my husband ordered two drinks. I thought that the catch 22 ( mocktail) would be too sweet or vinegar forward but it was tangy and light. My husband actually said he liked my mocktail more than he liked his cocktail which was good but a bit sweeter than he likes. The second mocktail I ordered was off the menu. I asked for something tropical and not too sweet. It was pretty good but not as complex as the catch 22. My husband liked the jaded merchant better than the dew drop. He also was sipping far too much of my mocktail which speaks volumes about how good it was. Love the moody vibes, drinks, and service. I've only visited three times but should make it one of the places we come to more often.

    Photos
    December 26
    December 26
    Small seating area
    Small seating area
    Espresso martini

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    Espresso martini

    Bandista - cocktailbars - Updated July 2026

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