First of all: Make a reservation for the exact group size you have. This place is very popular and usually booked up. It's inside the Four Seasons hotel. I did their main valet for about $8 on a Thursday. Easily your best bet! It's fun to ask the front staff and make the "journey" to find the place so I won't spoil any of that here. You will eventually have a host who will take you through the experience to get inside. They have a bar experience where you're face to face with the bartenders and a couch seating style. Hanging with the bartenders is more fun as they're fun with a lot of personality. Make sure to let them know if you're celebrating something. High chance you'll get bonus shots/drinks! Every drinks has a cool presentation and is very instagramable.i can't remember the name of mine but it had a mango taste with a dip n dots inspired topping. It's in one of my photos. It was on an other level. I'm not much for sweet drinks but dip n dots are my weakness. It went so hard. Highly recommen read more

Extremely overrated Had friends in from out of town and thought this would be a great place to take them. High reviews from ppl I trust and a great concept. Booked a reservation and had to rush from another event to make it in time. We get there on time and we still wait 20 minutes in the lobby to be taken up. Love the concept and the door behind the bookshelf. However, just tell us what to do and step out the way. They stand right on top of you and it ruins the pictures/videos. We get inside and the vibe is great. Low lit and nice ambiance and decor. We go to the back and get seated. It was kind of awkward seating for four but it got the job done. Cool view out of the single window to the city below. Let's get to the drinks and service. Apparently, it was a newer menu and many of the drinks we were told about were no longer listed. The server was very strange and off-putting. She didn't do the best job describing the drinks at all and kept calling us "my babies". Four full grown adults being referred to as "babies" by a woman our age or younger was just weird and she did it a lot too. No one liked it. The drink I got was extremely overpriced and came in a tea cup- not my cup of tea. My friend asked for something creative using tequila and pineapple- she said "sure, we can make that. Do you prefer 1942 or clase azul?" I stepped in. I know you have more tequilas than your two most expensive options. Of course they did and she gave him more realistic options to mix with. Had I not stepped in, she would have taken advantage of him. None of us were impressed by the drinks, the prices or the service. None of the fun and fancy drinks were shown to us nor seen throughout the bar or other tables. No smoke, no big bubbles being popped, no treasure chest with a drink in lol This was an expensive let down. We do a ton of high end and expensive dinners and bars. This did not live up to the hype or price point. Extremely overrated and the strange service left a bad impression on all of us. read more

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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. read more

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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! read more

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This is a visitors on expense account kind of place - with the cheapest cocktail starting in the $20s -- but wow! Creative, balanced cocktails with a punch, incredible presentation, and top notch service. read more

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. read more

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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. read more

Bandista - Our table - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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. read more

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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. read more

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This high-end speakeasy delivers an incredible experience from start to finish. The intimate, hidden setting creates a sophisticated and exclusive atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for the night. The staff is fantastic -- attentive, knowledgeable, and truly passionate about their craft. And the cocktails are on another level: beautifully presented, perfectly balanced, and exceptionally creative. If you're looking for an elevated cocktail experience, this place is an absolute must!! read more

Bandista - Welcome Drink & Amuse-bouche - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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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. read more

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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 read more

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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. read more

Bandista - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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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. read more

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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! read more

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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. read more

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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? read more

Bandista - Wide selection of spirits, including zero proof/non-alcoholic options. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

Bandista is such a cool hidden gem in downtown Houston. From the moment you're whisked away through elevators and secret hallways, you know you're in for something special. It totally nails that speakeasy vibe, and the intimate space paired with smooth R&B jams makes it feel like your own private party. The staff here is awesome -- super friendly, fun to chat with, and they really know their stuff. The cocktails? Next level. Every drink is like a little masterpiece, both in how it looks and how it tastes. You can tell a ton of care goes into every detail. It's the perfect spot whether you're grabbing a nightcap with friends or looking for a cozy, memorable date night. Between the incredible service, killer drinks, laid-back music, and that exclusive feel, Bandista is hands down one of the best places to kick back in Houston. Already counting down the days until I can go back! read more

Bandista - The Story - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Hidden speakeasy with a thoughtfully crafted menu with multiple drink options and incredible pairings. read more

Bandista - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Another Speakeasy in the books! If you're looking for a fancy artisan crafted and creative cocktail, you found your place. Came here for my friends birthday on a Saturday evening. It was my first time, but some in the group had been before. It has limited seating, and resy with deposit is required. This is understandable, so they can pace the flow of guests with their small amount of seating. Luckily, we had the back lounge area mostly to our ourselves. If you snag bar seating, you get to see the magic happen. But as a larger party, we were comfortable in the back. Drinks - I had the Writere Block. It didn't have any smoke or fire or anything crazy. But it was a solid cocktail. Which is all I really want anyway. I look for well balanced and tasty. Lately, I have been going out of my comfort zone with spirts, and it's paid off. The prices here are steep, so it's probably a special occasion rather than an every Friday night kind of place. One of the cocktails, the Menage a Trois, was a whopping $68 bucks. Service - was great, from start to finnish. Our first bartender, Zack, was funny and made a good first impression. Our 2nd bartender Sam had great depth of knowledge. Both of them were relaxed and engaged, ready to chat with us on all aspects of the cocktails. Everyone enjoyed their drinks and experience. read more

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We went on a Saturday night at 6:30. An escort leads you from the hotel lobby to the speakeasy. Once inside the speakeasy it feels like any sterile hotel lounge. I ordered a chocolate martini and it was made with Hershey syrup from the squeezable bottle! When paying $24 for a drink at the Four Seasons, I expect them to make their own chocolate sauce. The bartenders were more about having you order a drink off the menu than creating a craft cocktail based on your likes. I'm not sure why this comes up on the top 10 speakeasy list for Houston. I've been to far better speakeasies. read more

I was blown away by our entire experience here. We checked into the hotel lobby and were quickly escorted through elevators and back kitchen areas to some large shelves where you input a code to open a hidden door. The cozy bar is currently decorated with Christmas decor, not just a few lights. It's like Santa barfed everywhere but in a good way. We were lucky to sit right in front of where they make the cocktails and it was such a show! Chipping ice, setting things on fire, bubbles floating in the air, it was like Disney. Sam is truly an artist and watching her create each drink with such passion was inspiring. We tried 4 different cocktails from their holiday menu and each was perfectly balanced and hit all 5 senses. Looking at the drink prices can be intimidating but it's not just the drinks you're paying for and it's well worth it. Thanks Sam! read more

Bandista - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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What an experience! If you love creative and fun cocktails, and private speakeasies, this is the place to try! And with super friendly bartenders! Amazing all around! read more

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Yelp FTW yet again! I saw Bandista on Yelp and was immediately intrigued. I love craft cocktails and I love a good speakeasy so I was eager to check this place out. I was able to make a reservation on Open Table a few days out. You have to have a reservation and if you cancel within 24 hours or no-show, you will be charged $25 per person. On the day of our visit, I was running behind so I called them to ask about moving back the reservation. I spoke to Alexis and she was so nice. They weren't able to move back our reservation time, but she explained that we had a 15 minute window to arrive. She also shared that I could text the number and let them know if I was going to be later than 15 minutes. She said that we wouldn't lose our reservation since we let them know, but we may not get the full hour and a half. We checked in at Toro Toro and waited for the hostess. Within a few minutes, a different hostess, Alex greeted and escorted us to the speakeasy. She gave us the code to get in and we were on our way. The bookcase door is a lot of fun and it was fun watching people's reactions as they walked in. We sat at the bar (you have a choice of bar seating or lounge when you make the reservation). Our bartender for the night was Sean and he was awesome. Upon entering we were given a complimentary glass of champagne, a bowl of pecans, and a choice of still or sparkling water. So fancy! Bandista calls itself a cocktail laboratory and it does feel like a science lab with some of the drinks. The prices are steep, but you're paying for fancy cocktails that are unique and interesting. You're also paying for the presentation and experience. As much as I wanted to try the Pimm's Cup, I went with the Primavera. For my second drink, Sean suggested I try a Pliny's Tonic which is not on the menu. It is cucumber forward but also has a spicy kick to it (not sure if the spice is chili powder). The drink was really good and I was able to tolerate the spice. Throughout the evening we got to chat with Sean as well as Zack. Alex even came over to see how we were doing. Service was top notch! As we were finishing up, Sean asked us if we had time for one more drink. We had dinner reservations, but we couldn't pass up the opportunity. He made us a gin martini shot. It was smooth and really good! Bandista exceeded my expectations! I loved the small intimate vibe and I felt like a VIP. If I could afford to be a regular at Bandista, I would be here on a weekly basis lol. I won't be here every week, but I'll be back for sure! read more

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Last week, myself and two friends drank everything they offered. The set up is cool, clubby and a bit exclusive; a worthwhile experience. I believe reservations are recommended. We set up at the bar and were taken care of by a bartender (I think) named Joseph. He was maybe mid to late 20s, Asian man...forgive me my memory is hazy. We had, I think, everything or close to everything on the menu. If bayou water was offered, we would have drank it. The drinks were all excellent. Service was outstanding. Leaving the hotel, the hotel staff took great care making sure we made it safely into our Uber. The entire operation is top notch. We had such a great time, thanks to y'all for helping make great memories. read more

I don't even know ow where to begin because this bar is beyond impressive. Let's start with the fact, if you want to attend this secret bar, you must make a reservation via Open Table. Once you arrive, you check in with the hotel staff, whom will escort you to the Bandista and provide the passcode for the entry that is behind the bookcase. Once you input the passcode, you push the bookcase that open to enter Bandista This is a very intimate, cozy, trendy/modern, and luxurious style hidden speakeasy. The food they serve comes from the Turo Turo kitchen but I only a few of their cocktails which I will be sharing here. Once I sat down they offered me a drink that tasted like a really good sparkling water and the bartender said it is to clean your pallet, which I found quite interested because it felt like that's what it did. Afterwards, I ordered my first drink which was called, "Ritual." The cocktail comes in a clear skull head with a burning holy wood called Palo Santos, which is used to rid your space of negative energy. The bartender burned the wood and waved it around while explaining that to me then said, "Now to perform our ritual." The ritual was putting the drink it my glass and having at it. Lol The creativity was all way too cool for me. This was exciting and adventurous. Their entire menu was rather distinctively unique. The names matched the entire presentation of the drinks and some of the drinks (like the Ritual) had an entire performance that came with it. I tried quite a few of their cocktails Lol. I had the, "Sparkling Courage, Ménage A Trois, Call Me Sambaldy," I didn't have the Pimms cup which is the drink that looks like a tennis racket. I just took a picture of someone else's because it looked delicious. The service was absolutely exceptional, the bartenders were very knowledgeable on all of the liquors and the menu. This is definitely a place you can bring someone to impress them. There is so much more I could say but this review would be a book by the time I'm done. Pull up Houston! read more

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To enter, you are brought in by a hostess who explains the journey and takes you a back way to the bar. I was initially confused on who the hostess was as they walk around with handbags to carry their radios. They have on long black dresses, so easily can be mistaken as hotel guests. In 2023, I'm not inclined to just follow anyone especially someone taking me back to dark hallways and service elevators. You have to enter through the kitchen (am I only the one who feels like this is unsanitary?) and are brought to a bookcase where she explains how to grant access with a code and a special push of a book. They provide welcome champagne, dip and some kind of roasted mushroom chip thingy that really is too soft to dip. To be fair, this is really just not my vibe. Overpriced drinks, a production to enter/exit with no easily accessible bathroom. Even ordering a drink not on the menu won't save you much. If customized, luxurious, fancy cocktails and intimate, dark ambiance are of value to you, I'd recommend. The service was favorable, the bartender was knowledgeable and my group was checked on often. Reservations are a bit difficult to snag; definitely have to plan well in advance. The waitlist is a joke; I never received a text in one of my attempts. read more

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The Four Seasons has recently been one of my new favorite weekend hangout spots because of all the cool venues within. This weekend we discovered this hidden gem, and by hidden I mean it is literally a hidden speakeasy. This is a reservation only type of spot so plan accordingly as spots fill up fast. When you arrive, you walk up to the hostess stand at Toro Toro. From there, you walk through the restaurant to what looks like a private dining room with a beautiful bookcase. The hostess showed us where the hidden keypad is along with a code and only asked that once inside, if we had to take a call that we be respectful and step outside as not to disturb the chill ambience inside. Pics are welcomed though. We entered the code and poof, the door slightly opened and we let ourselves in. Immediately upon entering you see this beautiful bar with high end spirits. There is nothing cheap about this place. The bar itself holds about 10 people and there is a lounge area that sits about another 10 people. That's it. I like that it has that exclusivity which truly gives it that speakeasy vibe. Once seated, we were given a complimentary champagne along with a choice of still or sparkling water, and a sweet and salty nut mix to snack on. Sean our mixologist for the evening introduced himself and let us peruse the menu. The leather bound menu added to the upscale vibes and was very detailed in describing what was in each drink. Sean helped me make a final decision and I went with the Dead Man Walking. It looked like a complex drink, plus I'm a sucker for cool presentation as well. This drink is made with overproof gin and clarified milk punch, along with a spray of absinthe and a rosemary and grapefruit infused vapor. It is presented in a ship in a bottle decanter. The emerald blue drink inside with the ship and vapors looked like a pirate ship on the ocean. Once poured, the drink was also smoking as well. Wow factor on presentation for sure! They limit only two of these per person and I can see why. There is enough for two nice pours and though it doesn't taste strong, it snuck up on me. The flavors were smooth and I tasted every bit of the ingredients described to me. For my second drink I wanted something more summery and refreshing. Strawberry Fields is what I got and again, another amazing drink. This was another rum drink which was very strawberry forward. What set it off was the addition of red wine poured on top when served. They suggested drinking straight through it and not sipping. I love when drinks comes with instructions. This was also served with a sweet and savory treat. A lemon cookie, topped with a goat cheese and peppercorn donut and drizzled with strawberry syrup. That one bite hit all the senses and paired so well with the drink. Overall, this was an outstanding cocktail experience. Customer service between the hostess, and Sean and Zach behind the bar was top notch. This isn't the cheapest place to have a drink, but you definitely get what you pay for here. I will definitely be coming back! read more

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Upon arriving, I was greeted by the host who then took us to the service elevator as at the time the elevator used was out of service. Walking into the lounge, it's a beautifully decorated and the ambience is nice, cozy. The complimentary bubbly is a nice touch. However, for the price of the drinks we were expecting more. The person I was with specifically asked for a drink that was not tequila, or citrusy (as she couldn't pick one out of the menu) the server stated that he would pick the perfect drink for her. When it came back, it was a Margarita! Very disappointing. My drink was okay, but not worth the $45. Additionally, we felt rushed and as if they didn't care to serve us. For having only 10 people there, they were not as attentive as one would like. read more

Bandista - Complimentary bubbly - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

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#IYKYK This is the place! An intimate, 1920's speakeasy on steroids tucked away in the Four Seasons (escort needed) behind an elegant bookcase with welcome drinks, a fantastic menu, and savvy bartenders-- I'm here for it! The Primavera (mine) and the Sazerac flight (hubs) our first course. Then we moved on to the Pimm's Cup (mine) and the Sidecar (hubs). All were beautifully crafted, freaking phenomenal, and worth the price tag! Sean (bartender extraordinaire who sounds like Thor) was very knowledgeable and we enjoyed hanging out at the bar with him. Make a reservation and get there ASAP, you'll be so glad you did. read more

It was a one and done for us, we had a group of 6. The old fashion was the best in presentation and taste. The espresso martini and some drink served in a pretty tea cup with mini boba were both a fail, they were way too sweet. In our opinion, they was more about presentation than quality of drink experience. read more

I was super excited to get a reservation to this tiny little, hidden speakeasy with only a handful of seats behind a bookcase. The drinks are pricey, but the taste and exclusive feel makes it worth it. They greeted us with a welcome drink & my fig daisy even came with a delicious snack. My only disappointment was the the bar closed at midnight and we were rushed out the door -- even though our reservation time was 11:45 and the host was late to get us. It meant we only got to order one drink and then had to go. I'd still love to come back to get the full experience and other cocktails. The restaurant and downstairs bar were also closed at midnight on the Thursday. read more

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Bandista is Houston's take on a premium cocktail bar and its the mark extremely well. Take a high end location, intimate seating only setup, expensive liquor and a playful yet seriously talented bar team and you get Bandista! Sean was our master of libations for the night and he did a great job and recommending drinks on the menu and catering the mood and taste with off-menu ideas as well! An example of the expertise is the fact that my wife, who doesn't drink boozy cocktails or anything close to an old fashioned, proclaimed that the tequila old-fashioned Sean crafted was one of the best cocktails she's ever had! Overall, the intimate vibe is just right, the cocktails expertly made, the team entertaining and the prices appropriate for the experience. While definitely not an every week type of spot, this will go on our repeat list! read more

Bandista - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Houston, Texas

This was such a fun experience. Kinda pricy. Drinks were about 30-40 dollars EACH. Regular size cocktail. The ambiance was great. Make sure you have a reservation! My favorite thing was the goat cheese cookie that came with my drink. Loves the experience! Will come again. read more

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Nice quaint & quiet hidden spot. Mixologist was great, drinks were great. Highly recommend for romantic date night.

There's no doubt in my mind, this bar is gonna be on a list of the best in North America one day. It is such a neat speakeasy in the Four Seasons in Downtown Houston. The bartenders were super kind and the made some tasty cocktails. We really enjoyed the sleek, dark environment, entering behind a bookcase. The was such a cool experience and we can't wait to return. read more

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Been here 2x for cocktails and 1x for a special pop-up event. I got the dead man walking, the triple sazerac, and the manhattan over these visits. The dead man walking is the most visually stunning and the best tasting. I loved the experience of trying the drink. It's quite strong, so they max you at 2/person. They also give you a welcome bubbly and bar snacks. It's fun to sit either at the bar or in the lounge area. The entrance is super fun, where you punch in a code and push a door in a tucked away corner of the hotel. The bartenders are all friendly and knowledgeable, and I have enjoyed every experience here! read more

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Booked for a large party of 9 on a weekday night and the staff on the phone was very accommodating to our size. Had a slight mix up with phone numbers and reservation times, but the staff tried to get us in as early as possible. The service was excellent and the staffs expertise and explanation of the menu is certainly part of the experience here! The drinks were pretty pricey but one could expect as much with a nice speakeasy like this. Ambiance was dark and intimate. Drinks were very good and there were many I'd lie to return and try for a special occasion! read more

A friend and I went last night for my birthday, and I must say we had a great experience. The host came, bringing us to where we were needing to go. Of course, we were able to enter through the secret door. We were met with complimentary pomegranate champagne, which tasted great. Our mixologist/bartenders were Sean and Anna. The service was impeccable, as they provided us with a great experience. The ambience is nice, and perfect for intimate date nights as well. Most drinks are $35+ but honestly I feel as though it was worth it. It's the Four Season's, so I wouldn't expect anything less either. Drinks: 2 - Sparkling Courage 1 - Primavera 1 - can't remember the name, but was pretty and my friend said it taste read more

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Bandista is by far the sexiest and most intimate bar that I've been to. My favorite drink on the menu is dead man walking which I offered in a glass skull. The service and ambiance is definitely a vibe for a couples night. This is a hidden gem for me is a monthly check in. read more