Did you know the term “happy hour” originated as American Naval slang following World War I? This described a period of time on naval ships where sailors could engage in relaxing activities—such as boxing, participating in athletics, or other morale boosting activities—in order to relieve themselves from the monotony of life at sea. In comparison, civilians on shore were living during the times of Prohibition where happy hour signaled a time to frequent a speakeasy to get their fill of beer and liquor before eating dinner.

In today’s time, one thing that continues to characterize happy hours—typically observed between 4pm to 8pm—is it being a time to relax, winddown from a work day, and get together with friends. Around the Houston metroplex there are a variety of places to meet friends and enjoy a drink.

From fine dining restaurants to craft beer pubs, happy hours offer a range of cocktails and select craft beers to help ease patrons transitioning from the workday into evening hours. When you’re looking for a new place to try consider one of these:

Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, 4310 Westheimer Rd. #150, Houston

Whiskey enthusiasts are drawn to Bosscat Kitchen & Libations for their Whiskey Events. Bosscat’s has partnered with distilleries from all around the world to bring special guest speakers, distillery owners, brewers, brand representatives, authors, and overall whiskey connoisseurs to your table. Their whiskey room fearures over 300 select bottles of whiskey, bourbon and scotch from around the world.

Yard House, 800 Sorella Ct., Space 116, Houston

This high-end sports-bar chain offers a huge menu of New American fare with California influenced roots plus an extensive list of draft beers. With over 100 drafts on tap, every visit offers an opportunity to experience something new or enjoy your favorite.

Bar Louie – Sugarland, 16089 City Walk, Sugar Land

This is an upbeat grill chain with American cuisine, martinis and microbrews plus happy-hour deals. Bar Louie prides itself on serving chef-inspired food, refreshing cocktails, and awesome service in a comfortable atmosphere where patrons are encouraged to relax and hang out.

Texas Borders Bar & Grill, 20940 Katy Fwy. H, Katy

Texas Borders is known as the neighborhood stop for Tex-Mex, Cajun & American fare plus drink specials and a family-friendly vibe. They offer specials every day of the week from the BOGO Burger Mondays to weekend drink specials.

Wooster's Garden, 3315 Milam St., Houston

Wooster’s Garden is unique in its modern setting for gourmet takes on classic bar fare plus serves 50+ house cocktails, 49 beer taps, a curated wine menu, mocktails, and an elevated food selection. Their open-air concepts feature plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors.

Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers and was the #2 Top Producing agent in 2020 citywide. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region.