Houston is home to a vibrant dining scene with many restaurants that offer excellent wine selections. While lots of Houston’s finest restaurants and wine bars offer an incredible selection of wine, these are some of our favorites.
Nice Winery
Nice Winery, nestled just off the Beltway near I-10, was a hidden gem for years but has recently become a Houston staple with a large local membership and ever-expanding winery grounds and features. Ryan Levy and Ian Eastveld, the dynamic duo behind Nice Winery, are a powerhouse of talent. Not only are they Certified Sommeliers and seasoned wine educators, but they also boast Le Cordon Bleu culinary training. Their artisanal wines, crafted with meticulous care, grace the tables of esteemed restaurants and have garnered prestigious gold medals in internationally acclaimed wine competitions. The winery offers educational wine and culinary experiences as well as memberships for those who like to indulge in monthly wines.
The Tasting Room
The Tasting Room, a wine bar and restaurant in Uptown Park and City Centre is a wine lover's paradise. They offer an extensive wine list and a menu designed to complement their wine selection. The comfortable, come-as-you-are atmosphere lends itself to being a frequent stop for those who are simply looking for a relaxing experience to sit back and enjoy a glass of red of white with delightful snacks to pair with.
Camerata at Paulie's
Camerata at Paulie's is a wine bar that's known for its curated wine list and knowledgeable staff. It's an excellent place to explore different wines and learn more about them. This gathering spot is a darling space for an event, celebration or even just a stop to sit at the communal table for wine and cheese. For those looking to indulge in a full dinner menu, Paulie’s is right next door and serves a delightful Italian menu.
El Meson
The award-winning wine list at El Meson has earned the prestigious Best of Award of Excellence. The primary focus of this remarkable selection is on Spain, with an emphasis on the unforgettable Sherries. However, it also offers an array of options from regions such as California, Italy, France, and beyond. Nevertheless, the beating heart of this list lies in the Iberian Peninsula, where it truly shines for Spanish wine enthusiasts. With impressive vertical selections from renowned wineries like La Rioja Alta, R. López de Heredia, Vega Sicilia, and more, it promises to captivate and delight lovers of Spanish wine. Menu-wise, El Meson presents a diverse one featuring an array of traditional tapas and paellas, alongside beloved Cuban classics like ropa vieja and palomilla (top sirloin served with rice, black beans, and plantains).
Kiran’s
Kiran's proudly boasts another acclaimed Best of Award of Excellence-winning wine list, notable for its diverse strengths. Particularly outstanding are the selections of French white wines and sparkling varieties that harmonize beautifully with the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine. Committed to innovation, the restaurant consistently enriches its offerings by spotlighting emerging New World producers, ensuring a dynamic and ever-evolving wine experience. Wines can be paired with a menu that boasts Indian dishes with American and French touches.
Rainbow Lodge
Rainbow Lodge, a well-known upscale restaurant in H-town, offers an extensive wine list with a particular focus on American wines. The rustic lodge setting adds to the ambiance. This Houston favorite is also an eclectic and different kind of stop if you’re a wine lover looking for something a little bit on the wild side. Rainbow Lodge serves a wide array of wild game, and of course, seafood and steak. But the log cabin look and feel will give diners and wine-drinkers a unique Houstonian dining experience.
Le Colonial
The Houston location of this self-proclaimed “culinary innovation” boasts an exquisite dining room adorned with beautiful woodwork. This charming restaurant offers its signature fusion of French and Asian cuisine. To elevate the dining experience, there is also a curated, remarkable wine list featuring 135 selections with a strong focus on French wines. This list has been a recipient of the prestigious Wine Spectator Restaurant Award since 2018. It offers a wide range of French wines, including Bordeaux, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Burgundy, as well as a selection of wines from beyond France's borders, including Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Napa Cabernet, and Amarone, among others.
State of Grace
With its Gulf Coast and Southern-inspired menu, State of Grace offers a diverse wine selection that complements its cuisine. Plus, the charming ambiance will have guests wanting to book their next dinner before they finish their first glass of wine. Perfect for a family, business or friendly gathering, State of Grace is simply a lovely spot to sip, chat and indulge in some southern dishes.
Brenner's on the Bayou
This upscale steakhouse is a Houston classic with its original location opening in 1936. This Bayou offshoot boasts an impressive wine list, especially if you're looking for a great red wine to pair with your steak in true Texan style. The views are some of Houston’s finest, and while Houston is not known for its great outdoorsy vibes, this restaurant offers an outdoor dining area that will have you sipping on a delectable glass of wine and wondering why not?
Sonoma Wine Bar & Restaurant
Sonoma offers a wide range of wines by the glass and bottle, as well as a menu with dishes designed to pair well with wine. With a few Houston and surrounding area locations, Sonoma is a classic spot to grab a nice glass and pair it with some cheese and olives. These charming, no fuss spots offer comfortable seating, lengthy wine menus and oodles of small plates to snack on while you sip.
Houston Wine Passes
If you love to try new wines or simply exploring Houston, the Houston Wine Pass is the perfect pass for you. As a wine lover or someone that just wants to try something different, you will have a unique wine experience in each of our amazing wine rooms. Check them out here!
