Refuge

Really enjoyed getting to try this spot out. I've heard it can get super packed in the later part of the evening, but swung by here with a couple others post-dinner for some drinks. Got in maybe around 7-7:30 and was seated immediately. The bar was maybe 80% full at that point? Definitely packed closer to the time we left around 9pm.At any rate, we ordered the Huckleberry Hound, Bobby's Martini, and Janus Effect w/ fassionola. My wife is a big martini fan so the bobby's martini hit right at home. I'm not the biggest martini fan, but thought it was well done. The other friend got the huckleberry hound. I am not crazy about tequila, but she really enjoyed the fruity components to it. As for me, I got the Janus Effect and really enjoyed it. I am a pina colada fan and although this wasn't exactly that, it had good tropical notes to it while being creamy and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The vibe is pretty dark and can get loud, but never had to scream over anyone. Overall, would definitely come by here again! I've heard they make amazing espresso martinis.Also obligatory callout that this place is located on the side of Anvil and you'll need to go upstairs. Not really a speakeasy vibe, but definitely pretty intimate.

We were in search of a cocktail bar and came across Refuge (thank you, Yelp). I wasn't familiar with this coffee shop and bar, but apparently it's been open for over a year. When we arrived, we went to the coffee shop entrance not realizing that the bar is located on the opposite side of the building. We followed the signage and eventually spotted the door. The entrance to the cocktail bar is nondescript and is towards the back of the building in the valet parking lot. They accept a limited number of reservations through Resy, but mostly accommodate walk ins. When we arrived, they didn't have any seats available, but they were able to accommodate us at this little area near the bar. Once seats became available, we were able to sit down. We probably had to wait about 15-20 minutes for seats at the bar. They have a few seats at the bar, a few tables and some larger booths.Refuge reminds me of how Anvil used to be when they first opened. It's more chill and laid back with an intimate feel. The menu is completely different from Anvil, but the quality of the cocktails is on par.Our bartender Ruby was so sweet and personable. It was Halloween weekend so the bartenders were dressed as characters from Scooby Doo which was cute. My friend and I ordered different variations of the same drink called the Janus effect. Mine had fassionola which gave it a blue color while my friend's had citrus galanagal which gave it a red color. We tried each other's drinks and liked them both. My friend wasn't sure which one she wanted so Ruby gave her a sample of both so she could try it before making a decision.Refuge has a speakeasy feel which I personally love. It really does feel like a refuge from the loud and boisterous bars that are nearby.

This bar and coffee shop is a very cool concept, but I mostly visit the bar. The bar and the coffee shop are on opposite side of the building so it could be a little hard to find. When you walk in, it is only barely lit and you walk upstairs where there is bar seating and then a lounge-like area. It is a small area, but we went on a Friday night and we did not have to wait for a table.The drinks and service here are fantastic. Our server was incredibly attentive and continued to check on us. They were friendly and personable which made the experience even better. We ordered a couple of drinks off the menu, but we also ordered a couple classic cocktails which were made very well. I would definitely come back here after a dinner or before going out for the night.

Refuge might be my new favorite coffee shop in Houston! Quaint and almost hidden, this coffee shop by day, cocktail bar by night is the perfect balance between work and fun.I came here on a Thurs around 1pm, and it wasn't too busy. There's a good amount of tables and outlets to get some work done. The ambiance of this place is so cozy, lots of plant greenery, and big windows for natural lighting. There's free wifi that was actually decently fast so it's the ideal spot to be productive.As far as drinks go, I tried their mocha latte w/ almond milk. It had a smooth espresso flavor, rich dark chocolate notes, and creamy milk foam from the froth. No complaints here, other than their drinks are a little on the expensive side. You can expect that though being that Refuge is really nice, connected to Anvil, and on the nice part of Westheimer.This is definitely the ideal coffee shop for a casual date, small meet up with a friend or 2, or simply to get some work done. They offer coffee, wine, beer, and cocktails for your enjoyment, cheers!

Cute little hidden gem - been around for awhile, but my first time there.Staff was super friendly and helpful making suggestions based on your taste or preference of alcohol or liqueurs. Has limited bar seating, small open lounge area and a handful of booths. Music is just loud enough to allow for conversation. Definitely recommend for a unique out of the way place.

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!

Finally got to try this place last week and I have already returned a second time!Super cute and intimate craft cocktail place located right behind Anvil. The place is really small so I would definitely make a reservation before coming to make sure you get a table. The dim lighting, coziness, and great drinks make it an awesome date spot. I have tried a couple of drinks here but the rosetta is my favorite! Perfect combination of sweet and boozy. The staff here is awesome! They are so friendly and make sure to address you by your name. This is such a small but meaningful gesture. This place has quickly become my favorite in town!

Located in Montrose, this place is a coffee shop during the day and bar at night. Ngl, never heard of this place before my friend recommended we try it out and omg so glad I got a chance to try it out! They sell LOVE crossiants, which are top tier crossiants baked locally in Houston. I got the mini almond crossiant and it was one of the best I have ever had. I also got a honey vanilla latte and it was delish!! A little pricey, considering the crossiants are $8-9 dollars each unless you get the mini ones, but they're such a treat. Also, not as crowded as other coffee shops in the area, and would be perfect for studying/wfh!

Intro: I have been to Refuge twice. Both on weekdays. Once for happy hour and once in the evening. This speakeasy-style bar is located in Montrose. It's right next to Anvil in the space that used to be Etro many years ago. They have a small parking lot. If that's full, street parking is your best bet. Be careful though and read the signs. Some side streets only allow parking at certain times of the day. Ambiance (5/5): Speakeasy-style (but not a true speakeasy) is your clue. Dimly lit. Elegant. With seating at the bar and also at tables. It makes for a great date spot. Service (5/5): The bartenders are attentive and friendly. The cocktails will likely contain ingredients that you've never heard of and they're always happy to answer any questions you might have. Drinks (4.5/5): They have a creative cocktail list. Similar to Anvil, the focus is on sophisticated cocktails so it will take a little while to make your drink for you. But it's well worth it. Overall: The drinks aren't cheap but the quality is there. And if you're looking for a good deal, stop by during happy hour. Cocktails are 50% off!

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.