The oldest haunt in Houston, La Carafe wine bar is less a ghost than a piece of living history, a timeless challenge to the contemporary nightclub scene.

The cozy candle-lit tavern hasn't changed much in more than 125 years. The bar is similar to those in New York City from the same era: intimate and low lit, exuding a warmth and character that comes with the passage of time.

La Carafe serves only wine and beer and can only ring you up on its now antique cash-only register. The diverse jukebox complements the atmosphere with immortal tunes from Edith Piaf, Django Reinhart, and Hank Williams.