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Your fast pass to Houston's secret society

We’ll probably never get over the indie-cool factor of sign-less businesses, the ones that require patrons to be in-the-know, just to find them. Looking for the city’s underground hotspots? Consider this your fast pass to Houston’s secret society.

13 Celsius offers locals a charming, European-inspired retreat in the heart of Midtown

Marfreless
Hidden behind the River Oaks Theatre, marked only by a bright blue door, Marfreless has been a favorite make-out haven of Houstonians for years. Inside, the dingy interior of yore has been replaced with rich earth tones, black and white photographs of local landmarks and plush leather sofas. Downstairs, a large bar with ample seating attracts martini-sipping 30-somethings. Upstairs, in the secluded loft, couples mug it up amid rows of densely-packed couches and dim lighting. If these walls could talk…

Last Concert Cafe
Don’t be dismayed when you find the front door locked. Knock twice on the big red entry to gain entry into this hidden gem that once served as a Warehouse District-based bordello. These days, the venue serves up a welcome mix of Tex-Mex fare and live music. Dine inside or snag a seat on the patio. Last Concert Cafe’s kitchen keeps it coming until midnight Friday and Saturday night, while the bar and concerts keep rocking until 2 a.m.

Absinthe
Keep an eye out for the big wooden doors and green lights beckoning patrons for potent libations and late-night bites at this dimly-lit Montrose gem. The menu is surprisingly gourmet, with snacks like smoked salmon carpaccio and homemade thin crust pizzas. Drinks are more bourgeois, including bottled beer and standard well drinks. Food is served until 2 a.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

13 Celsius
You won’t find 13 Celsius’ name marking the exterior of Midtown’s European-inspired retreat, just look for a red-lit LED sign with the address (3000 Caroline) illuminated. Set in a 1920s Mediterranean-style building, the spot features an open-air courtyard, a windowed wine cellar filled with limited-production, high-quality vino and a 40-foot white marble bar—perfect for savoring a refreshingly-crisp, post-work Riesling and light bites. Stop in on Sundays for half-off a selection of wines by the glass and 25 percent off all beers.

By Natalie Bogan Morgan