For a cornucopia of craft brews served up in cool digs, it’s tough to beat downtown’s Flying Saucer Draught Emporium (705 Main St. at Capitol, Houston, TX 77002; 713-228-7468). The spacious Saucer boasts the largest beer selection in the city, with 81 on tap and more than 140 in bottles. Find all your favorite American microbrews and imports, plus dozens more that you’ve never heard, seen, or tasted. When you need a bite, the menu features great beer food like pizzas, sandwiches, and bratwurst.
In the Uptown/Galleria area, The Richmond Arms (5920 Richmond Ave. at Fountainview, Houston, TX 77057; 713-784-7722) embraces your passion for a pint. Authentic English pub atmosphere and grub draws Brits, Euros, and others to savor the more than 80 beers on tap. In cool weather, the fireplace warms the soul whilst sipping suds.
To ease into the evening in sophisticated fashion, the intimate, Frank Lloyd Wright-esque Sidebar at Gravitas (807 Taft St. off Allen Parkway, Houston, TX 77019; 713-522-0995) keeps things low key. Bartenders will mix special cocktails, such as the strawberrylychee martini and mojitos, while beer and wine drinkers can choose from an appreciable list. The adjacent bistro serves outstanding fare.
Ringside at Sullivan’s (4608 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77027; 713-961-0333) — tucked into the stellar Sullivan’s steakhouse — is a lively place that keeps toes tapping and hearts pumping with live music by some of the city’s best jazz and R&B musicians.
