Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Houston Hobby Airport, TX

MIDTOWN. With its loft-like appearance, graphic furniture, and expansive patio, this upscale sports bar gets lots of...

MIDTOWN. With its loft-like appearance, graphic furniture, and expansive patio, this upscale sports bar gets lots of support from local business people. They make it a weekday hangout when the work whistle blows, and a well-attended happy hour shows them the love in return. Affordable drinks, pub fare, and plenty of TVs offer ample reason to kick back and relax. If no good game is on, shoot a round of pool, or take in the energetic tunes of live bands from Wednesday to Friday.

Hours: Daily 11am-2am Hours May Vary Seasonally

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

DOWNTOWN. A mainstay that's getting new life thanks to local revitalization, Warren's still carries on as it always has...

DOWNTOWN. A mainstay that's getting new life thanks to local revitalization, Warren's still carries on as it always has ­ simply, and without fanfare. Its regular clientele are the same. They're just looking for a place to have a drink and decompress after the day, not to pose and preen. A dark wood interior, a jukebox of classics and oldies, and capable bartenders are among its charms, along with a pink neon sign that indicates the bar's outdoor presence. Affordable prices are a nice perk, and the place's sole turret-like booth affords the best vantage point for checking out the goings-on.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2am; Sat Noon-2am; Sun 2pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

MONTROSE. Houston's jazz connoisseurs frequent this intimate, 40-seat venue. An impressive roster of local and...

MONTROSE. Houston's jazz connoisseurs frequent this intimate, 40-seat venue. An impressive roster of local and nationally-recognized acts packs the house on weekends, and a cozy setting means that every seat is a good one. A full bar is available, along with the same appetizers and desserts you'll find at sister-pub The Black Labrador, located downstairs. A perfect choice for a first date!

Hours: Fri-Sat 9pm-Midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express

DOWNTOWN. Escape big-box clubs and mind-numbing music at so, so appealing La Carafe. Occupying a historic building (yes,...

DOWNTOWN. Escape big-box clubs and mind-numbing music at so, so appealing La Carafe. Occupying a historic building (yes, that slant is character), the wine bar places a premium on conversation and human interaction. Lit primarily by candles, the intimate establishment is perfect for a romantic liaison or an easygoing night out with friends. Indulge in a well-chosen wine list, and delight in a superb jukebox that boasts a wealth of classic, mood-making tunes. Day or night, a terrific hangout with local appeal.

Hours: Daily 1pm-2am

Payment Methods: Cash Only

MONTROSE. Numbers has gained a reputation as being the place in Houston to catch new bands before they've had a chance...

MONTROSE. Numbers has gained a reputation as being the place in Houston to catch new bands before they've had a chance to make it big. Featured performers range in genre from Goth to New Wave to rock-rap, but you can always count on great crowds and one of the area's hippest (and hottest) dance scenes. Past acts have included Hole, Type-O Negative, Ben Folds Five, Coolio, Gravity Kills, and Sevendust.

Hours: Fri-Sat 9pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express

MONTROSE. Popular with Houston's Levis- and leather-wearing crowd, this gay bar doesn't stand on formalities and is...

MONTROSE. Popular with Houston's Levis- and leather-wearing crowd, this gay bar doesn't stand on formalities and is ideal when you need a measure of low-key clubbing. While the place can get crowded, it's a terrific destination for chatting, maybe getting up a game of pool, or kicking back on the outdoor patio. When you've tired of checking out the patrons, set your sights on the stable of dancers. If nothing else, console yourself with cheap drinks and free peanuts ­ it's certain to be a good night!

Hours: Daily 4pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

RICE VILLAGE. This location of the regional chain is a boon to the student-heavy neighborhood and is a reliable, if...

RICE VILLAGE. This location of the regional chain is a boon to the student-heavy neighborhood and is a reliable, if crowded, go-to any night of the week. Elegant wood paneling distinguishes the spot from more run-of-the-mill college bars, as do spectacular happy hour specials (Monday to Saturday, 2pm-9pm; all day Sunday). While many patrons happily quaff domestics, beer connoisseurs are pleased with around 50 bottled choices and 20 on-tap options. TVs, darts, pool, and a refreshing patio round out the amenities.

Hours: Daily 11am-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

RICE VILLAGE. Benjy's airy, open restaurant unites fabulous food, impeccable service, and terrific people-watching....

RICE VILLAGE. Benjy's airy, open restaurant unites fabulous food, impeccable service, and terrific people-watching. Happily, it also boasts a relaxed, well-regarded lounge where patrons gather before dinner and professionals flock for great happy hour specials. The chic, streamlined space invites mingling, cocktails are well mixed, and an impressive spirits list gives newcomers pause. Savory appetizers can also be had, and an outdoor area comes with a view. A separate lounge entrance is at the rear of the building.

Hours: Sun-Mon 11am-9pm; Tue-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

MONTROSE. Don't come here looking for shiny nightlife trappings or a menu of delicate cocktails ­ the Icehouse is...

MONTROSE. Don't come here looking for shiny nightlife trappings or a menu of delicate cocktails ­ the Icehouse is nothing but downhome and casual. Picnic tables, domestic brews, and a few wine options make up the regular offerings, and from time to time, live bands play, and grilled hot dogs are served. Mostly, patrons just put up their feet at picnic tables and enjoy the chance to relax. Expectedly, people from all walks of life peaceably coexist, and local vendors hawk food on occasion. You'll also find an awesome jukebox, and oh yes, dogs are welcome. Since 1927.

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-Midnight; Sat 10am-1am; Sun Noon-Midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , American Express , Diner's Club

RIVER OAKS. Pay attention as you make your way down Peden Street or you stand a good chance of missing this nondescript...

RIVER OAKS. Pay attention as you make your way down Peden Street or you stand a good chance of missing this nondescript little joint, whose unmarked blue door in no way anticipates the lounge inside. Marfreless fosters a surprisingly romantic setting that makes it a favorite with lovey-dovey couples looking for a quiet table where they can make small talk, nurse a few glasses of wine, and listen to soft classical music. Subdued lighting and several scattered, cozy couches add to the place's intimate appeal.

Hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-2am; Sat-Sun 6pm-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express