On the strength of the playlist alone this place gets 5+ stars!!! Old school hip hop and rap!!! Then the stellar greeting and service sends it over the top!!! Eric was the server and bartender that made our drinks and they were great!!! I'm so glad I stopped by and will be back!! read more

Refuge - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I came here on a Friday night for drinks. It was a bit hard to find for me. I Ubered and went into a different bar on the bottom floor. One I went around the back of the building and up the stairs I knew I was in the right place. There have two different sections. One is a smaller bar area and the other a larger lounge area. It all seems to be seated room early and we had a reservation. We sat at a higher top on the bar side. Service was attentive. I wasn't in love with the options on their menu so I asked a lot of questions. I ordered Pimm's royale. It was good but a bit sweet/heavy to order a second. They accidently brought my friend a Nuevo León instead of the corn n oil he ordered but it was a blessing because the corn n oil was terrible once it came lol. But the Nuevo León was so good I ordered it for my second drink. Each drink was $16. Music was a bit loud if your goal is to talk and seeing as no one was up or dancing I feel like that's why most people go. They have a small parking lot and side street parking. Not a bad place to check out and lots of bars nearby to hop. read more

Amazing vibe, great servers who were super nice! It's a good place to study, parking seemed pretty straightforward. The croissant ended up being pretty expensive so just be aware but I was okay with it bc I was paying for the ambiance. read more

Refuge - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Came here for a coworking session with a friend on Wednesday. It's a small space but it's very nice with natural lighting and ambient music. I got a green tea and it came quickly and our server was super nice. There are plenty of outlets to work from and the wifi is good!! Would love to try the bar portion out sometime soon read more

Refuge - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

I visited Refuge the coffee bar on a Saturday morning whim- I'd heard about the spot and was near to the area. I kinda feel like it should just stick to being a bar. I personally felt a little internally conflicted to walk in and see a full bar lit up and people sitting at that bar with laptops. The physical menu is only alcohol, the coffee menu is posted on a board behind the bar. I ordered a cappuccino w almond milk. The only food offerings were pastries from Love Croissants. I had mini almond, warmed up. My drink and snack were both tasty, no complaints there. Tenfold on the beans so I knew the Capp was going to be legitimate. Service was friendly and warm. Parking was awkward but they do have a lot in the back. I'd come back to try the cocktail bar, prob not for my caffeine and breakfast needs anymore. Two word review: to go. read more

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Truly a hidden gem. This is now my favorite bar in Houston. Every single drink I've had here has been exceptional. The Spirit forward drinks really place the spotlight on smooth and delicious spirits. The more sweet drinks are all so creative and have so many interesting and delicious notes and nuances. The service is great. They provide a hot towel when you come in. This place also has a happy hour from 5-6 pm. Drinks are 50% off and on Tuesdays they have special martini menu that is even more amazing. Only con is that the music can be kind of loud and seating can be limited but nothing a reservation can't fix. read more

Refuge - Janus Effect - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

So this bar is located behind Anvil by the valet in the back parking lot of the building. You'll take the stairs up, upon entry and you'll find a very quaint, dim and intimate bar. It's more of a conversationalist place with great cocktails. Perfect for a 2nd or 3rd date out for drinks. I ask the bartender to make me a custom drink with cognac and whiskey and it was amazing ! Music is a mix of genres...a little something for everyone. The Staff are very attentive and make consistent rounds. I would recommend going a bit earlier or closer to opening to get a seat, otherwise there will be a wait on the weekend . You can add your name to the list and hang out in anvil until your seat is ready ! read more

Exceptional service and cocktails my friend and I came here with the expectation to try some new items on the menu and we were not disappointed. The staff is great, fun friendly and always bubbly. The helpful suggestions from staff made the experience amazing! The low lit setting provides a comfortable surrounding to relax in. read more

Great speakeasy in Montrose. Eric was a phenomenal mixologist. Favorites include the Bobby's martini and the Better Half cocktail. Will definitely be back. read more

Very beautiful intimate bar with great cocktails. It's located in the same building as Anvil on the second floor. Interior is dark and moody. Drinks are on the expensive side - $16 per cocktail. My favorites were the Hall Pass and Pantone 359. I docked one star and thought about docking two because the music is way too loud in here. We sat near the bar away from the speakers and it was still loud. I hate this trend of bars that are entirely too loud because I'd really like to be able to talk to people I'm with without semi-shouting. read more

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Awesome service from Julia! Great suggestions that turned into amazing drinks! The ambiance is close and intimate. Me and the wife went on a Tuesday night so we were lucky to get a nice table for two. We also caught the last day of their winter menu as they change out their menu every season. We had the Evergreen, Quarter Note, Embarqment, Rub's Cobbler, and the Commodore's Cadillac. 10/10 will definitely be coming back here! read more

Food: The croissants were a good size! I waited too long so I ate my croissant when it was a little cold, but I personally liked the chocolate croissant! It has the perfect amount of chocolate that isn't too much or too little. For the Matcha, I asked the barista if it was sweetened or unsweetened and she said it was unsweetened matcha. I asked if there was any way to make it sweet and she suggested vanilla syrup, which was perfect! I would definitely get the matcha again when I come back, I definitely recommend. Inside it is a little cramped. There are 4 small tables squished along a little strip, 2 decently sized tables, 3 small high tables, seating at the bar area, as well as a couch seating area. When my friend and I arrived, there was only one table left for us, and the place does tend to get crowded at times, so if you go here at the wrong time you may not find seating. They play music here and most people here study/do work, but there are people who also chat over coffee so the atmosphere isn't a quiet place. For parking, there were 4 parking spots in front of the cafe and luckily one of the spots were free! If none of the spots were free, then there we would've had to resort to street parking, which I am not sure if it is free. I love my experience here, but you just have to get lucky with seating and parking. I would definitely recommend this place with others, and I love the interior :) read more

Refuge - Interior - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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For the first time in a long time, I intentionally got dressed and sought out a co-working space. Refuge was the opportune oasis for my productivity to take shape. Thee calm ambiance, modern playlist, and well-crafted coffee drinkings were just what I needed to get through my Tuesday to-do list. The generous amount of natural light streaming into the place and the spacious patio were a refreshing new scene when compared to my typical working space (my apartment's balcony). Although I am not a huge coffee connoisseur (favoring the smell more than I do the taste), Jack behind the bar crafted me a great latte mix of vanilla, lavender, and just enough ice. My friend's espresso martini and matcha (with lavender) also scored high. Next time, I'll be sure to pay more attention to the signage pointing me in the direction of the parking lot behind the building rather than parking in the neighborhood. read more

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We had been to Anvil multiple times in the past but it was our first visit to Refuge. It has a more laid back setting which is nice if you'd like to spend more time and have a conversation. The cocktails were good and well made. The server was nice and knew his cocktails, with great recommendations. read more

Refuge had pretty good drinks-- my favorites were either the Hallpass or Sauternes Cobbler. The inside was pretty dark and loud, but after a few drinks, the vibe was really good. I would say its on the more expensive side, but after a few drinks, go downstairs to Anvil-- they're drinks are unreal good!! (same owner). Also, make reservations in advance! There are many spots for bigger parties, but we were lucky to get the main couch area in the place that can seat up to 8 people! Overall, good vibes, slightly expensive, but worth a try for a night out! read more

Refuge - Nouville Americano, Sauternes Cobbler - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

Friendly service. "Mezcal" drink without any discernible smoke. Bartender shook hands with a sniffling customer to my right and promptly asked me what I wanted next. The check, was my answer. read more

I remember when this place was Penny Quarter, and if you loved Penny Quarter, you'll love this! Great coffee, pastries, wine, beer and daily cocktail specials. If you need to have a work outside of home session, quick drink with a pal, or just want to curiously pop in, you will not be disappointed! Easily my new favorite nook in Montrose! read more

Refuge - Key Lime Croissant - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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This is truly the best bar in Houston. You get what you pay for. If you want high-quality service and cocktails, then this is your pace. read more

Refuge - Great cocktails - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Services and food had a great vibe! Will be back and hope I can find parking during the evening!

As a longtime fan of Anvil and the previous Tongue Cut Sparrow, I was delighted to hear about Heugel's newest cocktail bar. The ambience and upscale cocktail menu are very reminiscent of tongue cut, and they even have the little table snacks. I am obsessed with their new martini Tuesday menu which changes monthly and offers popular martinis from bars all over the world, as well as some house specialties. The "excessive" portion of the menu has some amazing and elaborate cocktails with the highest quality spirits. The cherry on top was when refuge started their weekday, happy hour service a couple months ago, from 5 to 6 PM on M through F. Sadly, Anvil never brought back their 4-5pm happy hour after the pandemic, but now there's one just upstairs! I like the happy hours to try new cocktails at a more approachable price because it is risky to order something you are not sure if you'll like at the price point. Even the excessives are half off during the happy hour! Refuge accepts both reservations and walkins. If you want to have a party of 5 to 8, you might need a reservation, because there is only one table large enough for parties 5+. Otherwise there is plenty of seating for two or four. Maybe a little wait, but no worries-you can go downstairs and get a drink at Anvil while you wait! read more

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I went for my birthday and we had a good time, the drinks it was so good, the food it was ok.. And very comfortable ambience read more

Refuge - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

Great mood lighting and drinks. Service is great, love the warm towel. The gummy bear mini shot is a must have. My friends initially laughed at me for ordering it but I had them all try it and they proceeded to order another round for everyone read more

Great cocktails, wonderful service, and a really cool vibe. Refuge has the best cocktails in Houston right now, and it is perfect for starting or ending a date night. read more

Refuge - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

Solid place for a nice cocktail. Very similar to Anvil but slightly different vibe.. maybe a bit more intimate if you are looking for a date spot. Will probably need reservations at peek times. We got lucky and were able to be placed on the waitlist and grab a drink at anvil before it was our turn. Same parking sitch as anvil. Love! read more

The ambiance of this bar is absolutely phenomenal. It is dark and cozy and they give you complimentary hot towels on your arrival which is such a nice touch! The staff is wonderful - kind, engaging, and fun. The drinks were very strong so they are not for the weak! read more

Refuge - Ambiance - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Julia was the bartender. She is phenomenal. I let her pick my drinks and she was on point. I highly recommend.

Love this hidden gem! Cute cocktail bar located above Anvil. It's quite dark inside, felt like a trendy attic den. Came by for HH and sat at the bar, it filled up pretty quickly by the end of the hour. Got the Pantone 359, really liked how unique, light and refreshing it was! Great spot to hit up with girls. read more

Absolutely loved this place! The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, making it perfect for a night out with friends. The drinks are top-notch, and the staff is super friendly. Can't wait to come back! read more

One of my favorite cocktail bars. Super cool ambiance, amazing drinks and great service! read more

Refuge - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

We sat at the bar, had a couple of great drinks, sexy atmosphere, and had really great service. Music was a little loud that night but I plan on going back! read more

The summer tropical menu was fun! The old fashioned is a must. The durian drink was a little strange but I love being pushed out my comfort zone. Make sure to get the coffee drink for dessert. read more

I like the small intimate setting. However, the cocktails that evening were just ok and limited and could not upgraded. I prefer cocktail menu at Anvil (which is where we want after). The Waldorf was the most interesting cocktail of the set. read more

This was my second time here and I was very disappointed. The booth we sat in was in the corner and was at least 80 degrees... while in Houston in August, I really hoped to not sweat indoors... In addition, the cocktails here were average at best. I tried 4 different drinks and did not think any were spectacular. For a $16 cocktail, and with Anvil next door, I was expecting something so much better. Furthermore, I asked for recommendations from our waiter and he was very short and rude with me, which I did not appreciate. I feel as though a waiter should want to explain a favorite drink and get customers something they will enjoy. Overall, I was very disappointed with our experience and we will not return here. read more

Amazing service; that damn grilled cheese is like being on DMT. It's an out-of-body spiritual experience that simply cannot be replicated. Get the grilled cheese. read more

Refuge - Tequila Diablo and Tokyo Godfather - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

My boyfriend and I had the best evening at Refuge. The cocktails were delicious and fun, the ambiance was great with their new tiki summer theme, and the hospitality and service was wonderful from start to finish. We had the best server who took the time to answer our questions and gave us recommendations from their new summer drink menu. Highly recommend checking this place out. read more

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Drinks are delicious and creative. Service is incredible - very upbeat and friendly staff. Bring some night vision goggles if you have trouble seeing in dim lighting :) read more

Refuge - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

If I could give 10 stars, I would. This place has wonderful cocktails and great service. I agree with the prior reviews - dark and moody, but in a good way. Great music too. It is loud but the vibe is 100. Also, shoutout to Kristen behind the bar for getting so excited when we order Becherovka - woohoo!! Thank you Refuge team for the experience read more

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Ambiance and service (at every point) was amazing! Enjoyed our handcrafted cocktails.

Used to love when this was Tongue Cut Sparrow (Downtown location was awesome too). Things have changed. The space is still cool, but I have had a couple of sub-par experiences. On last visit bartender(s) busy talking to friends (or regulars?) and seemed to ignore my friend and me. Bummer since I live in the area and wanted to take a small group of out-of-town friends there. read more

A fun little spot upstairs behind Anvil. It's rather dark and moody, quite loud but overall a cool vibe. We were seated along a small shelf (?) for a little while and moved to a true table once one opened. The cocktails are pricey, but absolutely delicious. The Pantone 359 has their house-made rum! Also, can't review without mentioning the waitstaff!! They were incredibly attentive and very kind. read more

Refuge - Pantone 359 - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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