Baseball playoffs are underway and the Houston Astros are fighting hard for a second World Series title. Now that things are getting serious, we are moving from our living room couch to local bars and restaurants. We love the pride and energy beaming from Houstonians when watching the Astros play. The city comes together and cheers for their boys. During an Astros game, every Houstonian is the same: a fan. We have put together our favorite places in the Heights to watch baseball among other fans. Game 1 of the ALCS is this Saturday and we can’t wait!
The Safety: Little Woodrow’s
2631 White Oak Dr, Houston, TX 77009
Now that the temperatures have dropped, Little Woodrow’s patio is always fun and a laid-back place to cheer on the Astros. The bar and additional seating can be found indoors, but it’s all open-air with shade and fans. If AC is a must for you, we suggest drinking elsewhere. Little Woodrow’s has a full bar but we lean more towards an ice cold beer when visiting this watering hole. Grab a group of friends, bring your pups (always welcomed on the patio) and enjoy the Astros in this casual atmosphere. Hungry? A food truck can be found on site, ready to serve. Circa’s Choice: Go with the Woody’s Pale Ale, from Breckenridge Brewery.
Circa’s Neighbor: Harold’s Tap Room
350 W. 19th Street Suite C Houston, TX 77008
A smaller setting than the others listed, Harold’s Tap Room is perfect for two people to catch the game. The bar offers simple Southern dishes that stay true to the restaurant’s use of fresh and local ingredients. But, if the Astros win, you have to celebrate with a sit down meal upstairs at Harold’s. Now if the Astros lose, cheer yourself up with a meal upstairs. However the game ends, you’ll leave Harold’s happy. Circa’s Choice: Take advantage of the $4 Saint Arnold pints offered during Astros games.
The Houston Institution: West Alabama Ice House
1919 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77098
This 90 year old ice house may not be in the neighborhood, but we couldn’t leave it off our list. This Houston institution stays true to the traditional ice house, serving only beer, wine and cider. Located on the corner of W. Alabama and McDuffie, this bar is an adult’s playground. A basketball hoop, cornhole, ping-pong, billards and darts are just a few games that can keep you occupied during commercial breaks. The bar and a few tables are covered, while the rest of the place is outdoors (misting fans in the summer, heaters in the winter). The Ice House does not serve food, but a food truck is always on site. Across the street, you can also find the Tacos Tierra Caliente food truck permanently parked. Circa’s Choice: The more the merrier at this bar. Get a big group of friends, family together, bring the dogs and enjoy an ice cold Shiner.
You Want a Cocktail, They Want Beer: Beer Market Co.
920 Studemont St #900, Houston, TX 77007
While beer is right in the name, we have not been able to find another sports bar that makes better cocktails. Beer Market Co. is unpretentious but definitely not a dive. The bartenders will serve you craft cocktails and wine, in addition to the eponymous beer. There are over 365 varieties available, you could visit Beer Market Co. every day of the year and never have the same beer twice (we do not endorse this challenge). Choose from standard bar fare like wings and fried mac and cheese balls, or opt for flatbread pizzas, sandwiches or one of their delicious salads. 30 TVs are placed throughout the indoor and outdoor space so you won’t miss a minute of the game.
The Dive: T-Bones Sports Pub
1971 W T C Jester Blvd, Houston, TX 77008
T-Bones is a fan favorite. This dive bar boasts TVs and an easy-going atmosphere. You’ll find great specials on local beers, delicious burgers and plenty of Astros’ fans. If you’re seeking refuge from the loud techno beats and pricey drinks at the trendy bar of the week, T-Bones is here. This bar opens at 11 AM, perfect for early afternoon games.
The Heights Staple: D&T Drive Inn
1307 Enid St, Houston, Texas 77009
When the weather is nice, D&T Drive Inn is the perfect place to watch the game. This open-air beer garden provides plenty of shade and fans with a small indoor area. In addition to a rotating tap wall of 50 craft beers, D&T offers wine, coffee, frozen beer-house made lemonade shandy and frozen sangria. If you cant decide between the shandy and sangria, go wild and order the half and half (a swirl mix of both frozen drinks). The menu features more grown-up options than the usual dive bar burger and nachos. The atmosphere is relaxed, great for groups and dogs are always welcome. Circa’s Choice: Order the Cauliflower Grilled Cheese and do not share.
If You’re Feelin’ Fancy: Hay Merchant
1100 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77006
Another bar outside of the Heights, Hay Merchant is in the heart of Montrose. This bar is dedicated to two things: beer and great food to go with beer. Hay Merchant does offer cocktails but don’t insult the bartender. This bar was built to store and deliver craft beer under the most ideal conditions. They have over 70 beers on tap and we guarantee you’ll find the beer for you. You’ve got your drink, the Astros are up, now its time to eat. Owner/Chef Chris Shepherd has re-imagined classic bar food and the results are exceptional (the burger made national news). Note, this is not a dive or a bargain but its worth a trip. Circa’s Choice: If your knowledge of beer is limited, sit at the bar! Ask the bartender questions, recommendations or if you can try a sip of one or two beers before you decide. The bartenders know about the drinks they serve and are happy to help.
For the Friends That Don’t Like Baseball: Providence Heights
1308 West 20th Houston,TX 77008
Providence Heights opened to the public in 2016, so still new to the Heights bar scene, Texas-influenced with BBQ and a dog-friendly patio, this option is sure to satisfy the whole gang. Providence offers ping pong tables and dart boards to keep everyone happy and entertained (sports fans and non-sports fans). Visit their Facebook page to learn about drink and food specials. Circa’s Choice: We like to visit when the big screen projector is up. Call ahead for confirmation. There is no better way to watch the game!
Wherever you decide to watch the Astros, remember to cheer loud and be proud that you live in the Bayou City. Lets Go Astros!!!
Featured image c/o Sports Illustrated.