Bandista is an intimate speakeasy and cocktail bar in downtown Houston, inspired by the glamour of a 1920s lounge and infused with a decadent Latin vibe. Hidden behind an unassuming entrance, the bar serves inventive cocktails and rare spirits for a refined late-night experience.

Hours

Tuesday – Saturday
5:00 pm – 12:00 midnight

Awards

  • North America’s Best Bars by 50 Best, 2026 – Ranked No. 47
  • North America’s Best Bars by 50 Best, 2025 – Ranked No. 59

Dining Experiences

Signature Drinks

  • A cocktail with ice cream
    Ménage à trois

    Pushing the boundaries on what a cocktail is, this newest creation transforms a Brandy Alexander into a trio of experiences. First is a fog of Krigler’s Established Cognac 66 perfume, followed by made-to-order Brandy Alexander ice cream. Lastly, a cognac with an added nose of chocolate and the mouthfeel of cream creates a spirit-only version.

  • Almost Famous

    Siete Misterios Coyote Mezcal, Roasted Pineapple and Epazote Infused Dolin Genepy, Charred Citrus, Scarlet Aperitivo, Paparazzi

Events

A bar with many bottles of liquor behind a bookcase.
Bandista Tuesdays
Tuesday – Saturday, 5:00 pm – 12:00 midnight
Bandista is now open on Tuesdays, offering one more night each week for guests to venture behind the bookcase. 90-minute reservations are available for inventive, award-winning cocktails at one of Bandista’s 20 seats. Additionally, Bandista will now accommodate walk-in guests, based on availability.
Reserve
Botanist Bar Guest Shift at Bandista
September 21 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Featuring sophisticated yet whimsical cocktails alongside chemist-like designs, Vancouver’s Botanist Bar stages behind the bookcase to share their creations. Bartender Grant Sceney will present five of Botanist's acclaimed signature drinks, including the Botanist Martini and the Raincouver cocktail. Botanist has been honoured by North America’s 50 Best Bars four years running, Reservations for one-hour seatings are required, though walk-ins will be accommodated, as available.
Reserve now
Library by the Sea & Bon Vivants Guest Shift at Bandista
September 22, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
This renowned duo from the Caribbean brings the islands behind the bookcase, with a dynamic collaboration. Library by the Sea (Grand Cayman) and Bon Vivants (Nassau, Bahamas) will present five signature cocktails between the two bars, featuring ingredients from the islands, with a music playlist to match. Reservations for one-hour seatings are required, though walk-ins will be accommodated, as available.
Reserve now
Moebius Milano Guest Shift at Bandista
September 23, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Moebius Milano brings its inventive and theatrical cocktails from the fashion capital of Milan, Italy to Bandista. Owner/Maestro Lorenzo Querci will present five of Moebius’ acclaimed signature drinks, which redefine Italian classics with modern techniques, including its hugely popular Pesto Martini. Reservations for one-hour seatings are required, though walk-ins will be accommodated, as available.
Reserve now
Three smiling guests share a toast with stemmed glasses and tumblers of cocktails with olive and lemon garnish.
ViceVersa & Vacanza Guest Shift at Bandista
September 24, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Classic Italian cocktail culture (by way of South Florida) comes to town for a special experience featuring Valentino Longo, creative director of ViceVersa and Vacanza (soon to open at Four Seasons Resort Fort Lauderdale). A selection of five signature cocktails between the two bars will be presented, highlighting Italian craftsmanship, the tradition of aperitivo, and the celebration of reimagined hotel bar classics. Reservations for one-hour seatings are required, though walk-ins will be accommodated, as available.
reserve now
Make your reservation. (713) 297-1340 Reserve A Table

Bandista

Playlist Created by BELLOSOUND

More Dining Options