Vinyl grooves in the oldest bar in the entire megapolis of Houston, Leon's is a venerable institution that blends historic ambience with fresh energy. The crowd varies but never disappoints. 100% agree with Chris C. if I could give this place 6 stars I would (sorry to copycat)! The drinks are mixed with care by the lovely attentive bartenders. The music is always with the sonic warmth only vinyl provides. If you are ever in Midtown wondering what you are doing drowning in douchebags, escape to Leon's!! read more

Leon's Lounge - Leon's on a sleepy Wednesday - Lounges Near Me - Houston, Texas

I was recently reunited with Leon's thanks to a CMYE and I couldn't be more grateful because this place is awesome. I vaguely remember stopping by here forever ago in some half fatigued/half drunk stupor and being none too impressed. In fact I think I was actually creeped out, but this more sophisticated Leon's (perhaps I am harsh and hasty to have judged it so during its prepubescent years?) is totally rocking. I guess the interior can very accurately be described as "Lounge-y" now with the velvety chairs, interestingly snazzy decor and such. Very cozy and comfy, but still classy - what more can you ask for? The cocktails are pretty amazing and delicious. I typically order vodka and soda with lime (because I'm a ~lady~ and apparently old, as I can no longer efficiently metabolize calories, WTF), but I permit myself the indulgent alcoholic calories here because it's so worth it. Given that I am old, I can no longer recall the names of the drinks, but do yourself a favor and stop by during happy hour to try the various delightful concoctions. I would have to say that this is a pretty legit date destination, ahem fellas and ladies - so go forth and prosper. And keep it classy. read more

Captain oh captain! Mavis (I hope this is how you spell it) is literally the best bartender ever. Not only do they make tasty drinks (best White Russian I've ever had) but they also make me and my bestie feel really safe (in the case of being harassed by other (unfortunately) rowdy customers) when having a girl's night here. Not to mention, the bar is gorgeous, the restroom is cLEAN and the playlist is always on point. Definitely suggest this place and if you do go, MAKE SURE YOU TIP!!! read more

I came here to check out the new and improved Leon's and have a few drinks before heading to a show at Continental Club. I was impressed with the decor. The original stained glass and chandeliers remain and they have added some great comfortable furniture in the lounge area behind the bar. The jukebox is no more, as now they only play vinyl. The bartender told us that during the week you can even bring your own. All in all I'm sold on Leon's. Loved it and will be sure to head that way more often. read more

Leon's Lounge - Lounges Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Across the street from trendy Mongoose Vs. Cobra is a quieter/comfier option. Leon's Lounge has been a long running better kept secret of Midtown bars. On the weekends, sure it gets full, but I always attribute a coolness to the vibe of the place even packed to the gills. They bartenders play vintage vinyl through the speakers and will gladly mix you something strong. The layout of the bar is varied from the louder bar top, to the practically hidden side rooms with stuffed chairs, to the narrow alleyway lined with iron tables, or the street view front patio. Head down and grab a glass of something. If you dont like it, another plus is having a second option across the street. read more

Really about as laid back as spots get. I love Leon's lounge for the single reason that it's unlike most other lounges in Houston, in that it's never super stupid busy. Interior design here while very old is pretty interesting, perhaps a little divey even. Drink wise they've got you pretty covered regardless of your choice in poison. I'd definitely recommend their cocktails as they're all well done. They do also have specials throughout the week, so check em out! read more

Alan the bartender is a cool ass dude. He often makes me something new to try I've never heard of not sure if he comes up with them himself or whatever but they normally are good. This is the kinda place you come just to drink. Or listen to live music at night. They say it's the oldest bar in town that I don't know. It looks old, there's a little old lady that seems to I guess own it. Go drink, its pretty quiet and empty sometimes so good place to sit and chat with date. read more

I am almost ashamed that I had never heard of this place even though I have lived in Houston for a long time and frequent many places around here. From what I hear and what I saw on the pictures on the wall, this is a very old bar which was recently rebuilt. This is a very charming bar. The decorations are an absolute throwback to what you see on the TV shows like Mad Men. Everything was clean and comfortable. The bartenders were also very nice and laid back. I don't know whether this was an everyday thing, but they had some delicious and healthy appetizers when I visited there too. If you've never been to this place, give them a try. The only criticism that I have is that there was only one TV and it didn't have an HD signal. Of course, this isn't a sports bar, but if there is a sporting event on TV, I'd hate to avoid coming here because I would miss the game. read more

It's been quiet every time we've come, so it's the perfect place to chill out after work. The drinks are nothing special but you can't go wrong with the St. Arnold on tap. Cocktails are not a specialty here. Their rotary phone is awesome. That ring brings me back. They put great music on those turntables too and everyone is friendly. Start your night off at Leon's!! read more

Not too crowded. Intimate location with lots of room, dim lighting, strong drinks. Perfect place for a romantic date night out. Or a great place to fight with the "man" youre dating. No one will know the difference. Trust me Fyi- youll have to drunk eat somewhere else. read more

Love the feel and décor of this place. Huge bar, separate sitting areas that are all unique in their style. Relaxing. Pimm's Cup and Mojitos were great! Here at 2:00pm on a weekday so not sure what it's like when it's busy. Service was friendly. read more

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Anytime of the day, this place is safe for a woman to be alone. Great full bar, feminist male bartenders, and a door man that does not put up with anyone's shit. Scrolling through your phone? Wearing headphones? They leave you the fuck alone here. Music is some derivative of Queens of the Stone Age and no TV's. Seriously, they would totally host your bachelorette party here on Super Bowl Sunday. Love this place. read more

Great little place. The decor is lovely. The bartenders were really nice and knowledgeable. I had some drink with grapefruit and peppers (weird?) but it was delicious. I could have drank those all night. Too bad I forgot what its called. Guess you'll have to go and find out for yourself (: Ambiance was nice. Only gave it 4 stars because the bloody mary wasn't very good. Given the range of cocktails served there, I expected more than just your plain ol' mix-tasting drink. sure they put a whole celery stalk and sausage and everything but the kitchen sink, but I think that's to mask the "blah-ness" of the actual bloody mary itself. Oh and my sis ordered a chardonnay and found an odd-looking dissolved something in her glass. but that didn't affect me, so no star deductions for that. (yea, yea, I'm selfish). Will go back fo sho. read more

Leon's Lounge - Lounges Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Went here lastnight. Great vibes, great music, nice crowd. Pros: good music; age appropriate music for the crowd; good DJ and live music; very good drinks; lots of seating; appropriate lighting Cons: restroom was nice, but there was a huge hole in the wall (I was scared to use the restroom, because I was afraid of a rodent coming out of that hole.); automatic 20% service charge added to bill (I assume that's an automatic tip.); you have to pay $10 for entry after about 7pm. I could only give it 3 stars, because the cons evenly countered the pros. I plan to return, but I can't have too many drinks, as that would force me to use the ladies room, and put myself at risk of a rodent encounter. read more

Cool bar for bar hopping. It's larger inside than it looks from the outside. 2 long bars on either side of the place, and a small stage with seating in the back, for live music I assume. The bartender Justin was very friendly with my group of girls and I , when we popped in while bar hopping on a Sunday. He made us all 'from scratch' cocktails with fresh ingredients. We loved them all! He was cool and we had a good time while there. I would go again for a drink. read more

Leon's Lounge - Justin the bartender made up something delicious with vodka - Lounges Near Me - Houston, Texas

Even though we had no napkins, Tim provided excellent service. He went above and beyond to grab a napkin to keep the bar dry. The drinks were also delicious, vibe was great. 10/10 will come here again for Tim's fantastic service and conversation. Thanks, Tim! You were a phenomenal bartender! Will definitely be back! read more

The dark and Gothy decor of this bar reminds me of an off-beat European pub somewhere. I LOVE IT!! It's a smaller venue with live bands and all drinks are apparently poured double. Beware of the small bathrooms, though. They are clean, but one toilet per gender means go when you can. Also, the parking is all street parking, so you may have to walk a block or two on busy nights. read more

Nice place to go hang out with friends or a date. They had a band playing the night I went it was good music, a little blues type of music. The seating is different it's curls around to the sides which makes it hard to see when there is a band. The atmosphere is actually pretty cool. read more

I thought I had already written this review. I celebrated my Birthday here this year. My husband and I came with a few friends after Dinner for Cocktails. I love the vibe here. There was a slight issue with the AC on the night we were there which was the only downside cause it was the middle of July in Houston ! Ouch. The drinks were good, ambiance nice. Love the retro vibe & there is always a nice mix of people here. I like that its small & has never been too crowded on the nights we have been here. A cool place to bring out of towners as it's one of Houston's oldest Bars. read more

Leon's Lounge - Lounges Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I'd like to drop this review a few more stars, but I can't completely justify doing so since my issues aren't necessarily the fault of the establishment. However, it has been months since the "incident" and I'm still irked, so down one star you go. We'd planned the going away party for Ms. Fayza at Leon's to commemorate her time as the Houston CM and to wish her adieu on her move to SF. That being said, my previous experiences at Leon's (minus the parking issues) have always been great and wonderful. I'd always heard there was a local celebrity that entertained guests on the piano, but had never met him before. That was my (un)lucky night. Yes, Little Joe Washington is famous. And talented. No, I'm not a fan of him. Joining the party and playing on the piano for tips is understandable. After receiving tips, staying around to badger us for more money and then harass certain members is not. Racist comments are just not going to put me into a giving mood--go figure. Again, though it isn't the bar's fault that Little Joe can be a jerk, it has forever tainted my feelings towards the place. And though I love the place, I doubt I'll be heading back any time soon in hopes of living out the rest of my days without running into him again. read more

It seems that I'm not the first one to be more impressed by the bartender here than anything else. His name is Jason. He's cool. Friendly, professional, and personable, he knows just how to handle the kinds of drunken confessions that only a bartender is privy to hear. But we aren't here to talk about bartenders, we're here to talk about the place itself. And I like it. I recommend it. It's very non-pretentious, which is essential for making me feel at home. Laid back, casual, easygoing. This is the kind of place you can let down your hair and unwind. The rooms are rather split and separated though, it's an odd layout. You've got the front room with the bar, a side room with billiards and other such games, and yet another room with a piano and a homeless man who talks too much. Is that mean? The homeless man, though, apparently is always here, and definitely is part of the experience. At first he is charming. He's entertaining and he clearly loves being center stage. But after a few minutes, you realize that his speech is not winding down anytime soon. You start to want him to leave so that you can go back to socializing with your friends. And he is not going to leave. All the same, though, what could possibly fill out the experience of a true dive bar, better than being serenaded by a friendly, slightly crazy indigent older fellow? read more

Why is it that I want to start every review of a dive bar with "I love this place?" Actually I do, I just rewrite those intros. So here's how I'll start this one: Leon was a bookie. That's what I was told by the bartender. I'd asked whose framed, folded flag was hanging above a doorway and was given that juicy tidbit. It had belonged to Leon, the bookie. Apparently there was originally one entrance and five exits. Awesome. I looked for a game of craps, but was lucky to have not found one. No telling what dangerous ghosts would have been involved in that scenario. As I walked through the bar, I noticed a seedy feeling. Very vague, but present none the less. The main room, where the old wooden bar lives, has a sketchy, you're being watched feel to it. Perhaps it was the regulars sitting at the bar cutting glances at us, but I also felt as if history was staring me down. Like a storied past was giving me the once over for never visiting it. And with it's storied past, I'm not a bit surprised. At the back of this room, I got the feeling once again. I spotted my absolute favorite qualifier in the dive bar equation: the juke box. Sitting on a wooden pedestal, this old dear looked at me sadly when I only put a dollar in. When fellow Yelper, Mike, put in enough for an additional thirty songs, both Jaire and Mike were lucky to be able to type in a couple of their selections. Two minutes later, I'd dialed up a list of awesomeness. My choices were of course scrutinized. (I just want to apologize to everyone that evening, jukeboxes with seventies, sixties, eighties, and hair metal gems turn me into a maniac with crack addict like tendencies.) Beyond this room, is a lounging area. Basically it's just a anteroom with a low table and seventies-esque stuffed chairs. To the left, a game room with a pool and Foosball table. To the right was a back bar that smelled of stale ghost and wood. There were several old registers, an old piano with candelabra, and more chairs. Beyond the lounging area was the outdoor area/gated space between the two buildings. Not so "ghosty" out there with it's beer banner hanging along one wall, but I was still a little apprehensive. read more

I saved 300 for a place I hold near and dear to my heart! Leon's is the one place in this town where I literally feel transformed. I often wish I had a flapper dress on, a feather boa around my shoulders and a dapper young man sipping an Old Fashioned next to me. When I come back to reality, I realize I'm just there with a friend or two, loftily daydreaming about the olden days. I love Leon's for a number of reasons: 1. Its close proximity to the lot I park in on some work days. 2. The store front windows that allow you peer in at the barflies. 3. The stools at the actual bar (which is a rarity), and the purse hooks below. 4. The bartenders are always friendly, yet hipster-ish with a gothic touch - if that makes sense. 5. The drink menu is not over done, with classics alongside newer spirits and a decent beer selection. 6. The record player - guest DJ's on different nights of the week is awesome as well! 7. The little alley/patio. 8. The vintage mantels and mirrors all around, along with the cozy antique sofas and chairs. 9. The prices - for Midtown, you can't beat it! 10. Homemade empanadas...nuff said. Thank you Leon's for retaining your old world charm, even through the change in ownership a few years ago. Thank you for not being what bars within walking distance of you are. Thank you for being different, simple, and not overdone in a city of bars with skeeball players stepping on my toes while I try to get to the bar. Thank you for having a seat at your bar - one that I will continue to fill. read more

It pains me to give this place such a low review. This past weekend was my first time back since the reopening. Everything just seemed lackluster. The bartender's consistently shoddy drinks paired with a pretentious attitude really brought everything down. Someone in my group inquired if they still made the bell pepper cocktail, to which we were informed "new owners, we do things differently now." Oh ok, you do things differently now but you still kept the same name? I get it.... We hung around for 3 rounds then left, everyone having switched to bottled beer the last round. It would have been one thing if the drinks were cheaper, but the bartender made drinks one would expect to be at $3 well night, however they were priced as if we were across the street at Mongoose. Sadly, Leon's is now just a figment of my memory. Poor bartenders, unfortunately made drinks, and a dead atmosphere. I won't be coming back here again. read more

I WANT A LEON'S IN DALLAS That could suffice as all I want to say, but that wouldn't give you a very good inclination as to *why* I want a Leon's in Dallas, now would it? Leon's reminded me a lot of the Loon back home, but smaller and a lot cooler. If I ever had to move to Houston, it would definitely be my regular hang out. First of all, it just has a cool vibe. Everyone seemed to know everyone and it was obvious when we walked in that we were out of towners. But they weren't rude about it, more like looked at us then turned back to their conversation. The bartender quickly become one of my favorite people in the world - sooo friendly and nice, and treated me like he has known me for years. The pours were strong and the prices made me a happy camper. For all that we had we should have had a much higher tab, but I guess either we got a hook up or they're just plain cheap. The music was great and I really enjoyed the random piano players, although one of them came by our table haggling us for a tip and I was a little off-put by it. Next time I'm in town I'm going to Leon's again. No questions asked. read more

Oh Lordy, I needed this place! As a person that isn't quite cool enough for midtown, I desperately needed a dive-ish bar where I can get away with my chucks and imperfect hair. Leon's fits the bill! Despite being Houston's oldest bar (no, it's not La Carafe), it's not 100% a dive anymore, since they went through renovations and added some craft cocktails to the menu. However, it's dive enough for me. The space is dim lit, the decor looks like it's been in the building for decades (and never cleaned) and the drinks are wonderfully priced. On top of this, the gals behind the bar are quick and friendly, with just the perfect amount of bartender wit. If you make a point to get out early enough, there's usually street parking nearby, too. I'm sold! read more

Um, whoa, Leon, what in the For Crying Out Loud is going on here? I dropped in here on the tail end of an epic couple of days that saw me ciimb and descend the same batch of stairs give or take a billion times (I may exaggerate somewhat, but trust me, there were stairs, there were lots of them, and I was climbing those suckers). I was so wiped, in fact, that when the esteemed Lisa A suggested something else I basically replied with 'well, you lead, I'll follow.' Even the dim can occasionally burn bright, and how cool it was that we found this place on the back end of a full day. I admit to being a little clouded by the cheery skies, and was a blank snowglobe of enthusiasm when we hit Leon's afterward. Cockails, friends, family, a smiling barkeep who's feigning thirsty. We'll see. But for now, thanks for being such an important part of all that's going right thus far. Viva! read more

On a Friday night, the place was pretty empty. It's a decent size with plenty of couches and high top tables. But the fluorescent lights really really killed a potentially romantic vibe. I don't think soft music would've hurt either. Maybe I should've come on a night with the live band? The drinks weren't bad; standard full bar with some specialty cocktails. My Tito's Texas Mule was very good! Overall, I had higher expectations for Houston's "oldest bar". read more

Vibe was cool, dj was good, drinks were nice and strong and we really enjoyed ourselves EVEN THOUGH the hookah guy was VERY rude - over charging for a vape hookah and then coming to get it 15 mins before time was up with a complete attitude (manager did say he would address it tho) It was nice to have parking right across the street. Going back is a possibility (without hookahs) read more

Love this place. Every time I come here, I usually see the dude with long hair (Alex I think) and he's always super cool. The crowd is older, calmer bar regulars. Not the annoying Barbarella kids or midtown bros. Classic dive bar. read more

If I lived in Midtown or downtown THIS would be my hangout bar. It's a dark and mysterious drinking den. A narrow tavern with a penchant for old vinyl records on the speakers and heafty drinks. If we could still smoke in Houston bars in this place it would be impossible to see past your nose...you know it had that kind of atmosphere in its heyday. I watched the bartender mix what I thought was gonna be a certain liver killer for another patron. When I asked her what curious concoction she was making she said "just a margarita". Honey! If you put that many ingredients and that much love into "just a margarita" I am sold on your mixology skills. I want you to make every drink I ever drink from now until the end of time. My pour of Jack with three little ice cubes was a nice one and for $5.50 it was perfect. Their Scotch selections were a pleasant surprise for a bar with such limited bottle space. The beer selection also was decent for a smaller bar area. I think I may try some of their classic cocktails when we go back again. And we will go back again. Unlike so many of the bars I want to go to more often - ie: Anvil and Poison Girl. -this one opens at 2 instead of later in the day. I am an afternoon day off drinker and don't want to fight 5 or 6 pm traffic to get home after a couple pops. They have steak night and empanada night and happy hour specials. The noise level was perfect. We could talk, hear the music, order our drinks without yelling and leave without ringing ears. I wish now we had ventured further into the place and into the back where they have overstuffed lounge chairs and cozier seating. But we were at the last of our pub crawl destinations and wanted to top off our day with a nice strong bourbon and then head home. Why not a 5 star review since I loved it so? The bathroom was smaller than an airplane potty and the highball glasses were square and bothersome and hard to sip from. But those are piddly things that I shouldn't mark off for...but a one holer ladies room is important to note. read more

Everyone is dead on about the bartender. He is wonderful! So nice. I totally didn't expect the inside of the place to look like it does, considering it's the oldest bar in Houston, and the looks of it on the outside. But it was so nice on the inside. All of the other rooms are really cute, and there are comfy chairs in the back. Also, I really dug the jukebox. And this place if uber close to my house! I'm so glad I went. I'll be back. read more

We should make this perfectly clear...I love this freaking place. The food is limited. They only do food on select nights (Wednesday night is steak night) and even then the choices are limited. This is a bar, first and foremost. What gives it the boost over most bars is the atmosphere. The bartenders are knowledgeable, the drinks are plenty and the music is amazing. The low ceilings and dim lighting give it the feel of a speak easy, and so does the music selection. Leon's only plays vinyl records. No satellite radios, no local stations...just vintage stuff. As an added bonus, you can bring in your own records and they will play them for you. (Whhhhaaaaat? I just went there) Perfect for a late drink or a start to the evening. Wonderful place to just relax and catch up with friends. read more

Cool atmosphere, open until 2am everyday, and decent crowd. Manager is really welcoming and generous. He is actually the bartender at the Davenport bar. He makes awesome drinks and does not short you when it comes to liquor. read more

Leon's Lounge - Lounges Near Me - Houston, Texas

One of my favorite bars to visit. Their prices have gone up a bit since I first started coming but they haven't lost all of their charm. This is still the oldest true bar in Houston, that started out a bar and has only been a bar. Changed ownership last year but back open again. This is a good place to make a new friend. read more

2.5 stars, for those who are saying this is the oldest bar are wrong. La Carafe, is Houston's oldest bar and has much more character. This to be honest is just a normal bar stuck in a place where people expect glam. There really is nothing too special outside of the lighting fixtures and stained glass window. Sure you can play darts/pool/shuffleboard/jukebox, but thats avail in most bars. The bartenders/clientle are cool as this place is geared toward having the regulars pay the bills. Overall I enjoy this place, but its not a bar I would drive across town for. Drinks are low priced, not incredibly difficult to find parking, and it is not loud so its a good choice to meet up friends there before you go out. read more

Cozy, great when there's live music! If you can take an Uber to avoid the parking. Love this bar!

This place is great! First off, the bartender is pure class. I walked up to the bar, ordered a beer, and started to bring out my wallet. He said "pal, you wanna start a tab?" I did, and I pulled out my credit card. His response: "don't worry about it pal, what's your name?" I then asked why he didn't take a credit card for the tab... "well buddy, I will just remember your name... and anyways, if you try to take off without paying... I have sized you up, I think I could catch you." Honestly, can you beat that for a cool bartender? Although I feel a bit offended because I feel like I could have a fair shot in a footrace. Next time I go back I might have to challenge him. As for the bar itself. It has comfy chairs, a dart board, a pool table, a piano (which was played on quite well by a man called Lil' Joe... something or other)... basically it is everything you need in a dive bar. Plus it is right next to the light rail and HCC... where I just so happen to be taking an accounting class. I might have to stop by Leon's after class... or depending on how work goes, maybe before. read more

As far as dive bars go, this was a classy joint. The bartender was excellent, and it made a great first stop for a night of mayhem. I enjoyed the pool and darts while enjoying my Blue Moon served up in a pint glass and with a juicy slice of orange. The place wasn't that crowded, but there were a couple of people who appeared to be "regulars." Perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of the experience was the bartender himself, who was knowledgeable, friendly, and just a classy guy (which is no small feat for a dive bar). Leon's is unpretentious, self-aware, and an overall good time. On the outskirts of the strip of "frat-daddy-esque" bars, Leon's has good drinks, mellow times, and you can actually have a good conversation without the din of thumping techno or Top 40 pop. read more

I soo wanted to like this place after reading the reviews about it's nostalgia, great drinks and atmosphere. My dear friend and fellow elite yelper @FreeL. had nothing but nice things to say about this place and we are usually on one accord when it comes to bars and our fondness of certain places, but I would have to agree with yelper Olivia K. that his place is weak as hell and I can think of so many other places to spend my Saturday night. SERVICE Upon entering the bar, all we could hear were these loud, obnoxious cougars at the bar and their young "meat". Sloppy drunk and too wasted for it only to be a little after 8. But It's a bar and this is what happens at bars right? So my husband and brother in law pull up to the bar. The waitress comes over and says Hi, what will you have? hmmm..We don't know. I mean we could order what we normally do but this being one of the oldest bars in Houston, I am certain you have "specialties" or things your prefer, so how about you share that? So I ask what she recommends, she rattles off two names on the menu and so we order that. The drinks are tasty. We also order the empanadas which were ok (like 1 star). A little longer in the oven might have been nice. As we sit there, we notice that even though there are only a couple patrons at the bar it is taking FOREVER for someone to acknowledge that we are at the bar. My brother ordered a bottle beer that he had to ask for 3 times. And all you have to do is grab a beer, open it and hand it over. But again, it's a bar, so I am attempting to keep calm and enjoy this as an experience. So as the place gets more and more crowded we noticed that if you weren't sloppy drunk or willing to yell and cop an attitude with the server you more than likely would have to wait a while for even some eye contact. It took 7 minutes for someone to come over to us so we could close out our tab and get the hell out of there. I won't mention that the bartender was muddling something and squirted the juice all over my face, hands, jeans and glasses BUT I chose to sit at the bar and understand that those things may happen sometimes. Although I have been to and sat at SEVERAL bars and this hasn't happened. I think the most upsetting part about it all was that the bartender offered my husband a shot to "make it better".. Like he was the one smelling like a margarita, with juiced up glasses and jeans. I was done at that point and closed out my tab and bounced! I won't return, as there are several other places that I could rattle off that are 10 times and 3 stars better than this joint. read more