Located in the heart of Midtown is a little pub with a great front porch, 44 beers, ales, and lambics on draught and another 50 in bottles to choose from - that is, unless you prefer a respectable single malt. It's a friendly place to stop after work to take advantage of their excellent happy hour pricing. Relax with your dog and a bucket of beer at the picnic tables while watching the game, play some pool at one of two tables, or throw some darts. On street parking can be catch-as-catch-can but after 8p try the neighboring soul food restaurant lot.

Many debate whether Leon's Lounge is the oldest bar in Houston or if those honors go to La Carafe downtown. Does it really matter other than to say is that this bar has that special something that makes it the perfect watering hole for every generation. Is it the crazy chandeliers? Or excellent jukebox? Maybe they've just managed to hire some of the city's best bartenders. Somehow, since 1947, they have continued to hit on that magic combination of warm ambiance, excellent pricing, and generous pours that get people in and keep them coming back.

This venue is one of eleven locations in the US. Howl was founded in 1990 with the concept of a bar centered around dueling pianos. The stage has two baby grand pianos that are played by the best regional talent available. The show features two pianists at a time that play for an hour, then are joined by two more pianists for a couple four-way songs. The new pianists then take over for the next hour and the cycle of sing-along fun begins again. They also feature 'showtime' that includes all Howl employees and patrons in choreographed routines to well-known songs and jingles.

In a world of restaurant and bar jungles, PL Teahouse is an extremely pleasant and unique change. Stop in at any time of the day to get a sweet and delicious pick-me-up. From traditional Vietnamese fruity desserts and teas, to creamy Tapiocas and smoothies, they're sure to satisfy you in a pinch. Need a hip hangout for a while? PL is definitely not like all the other places in Midtown. However, they don't just do desserts! Their sandwiches are scrumptious, and for less than three dollars, there is no better option for great lunch on a budget. Go for the BBQ grilled pork sandwich. Really hungry? Start with a delicious bowl of soup.

Located in the Indochinese section of Midtown on Milam, Khon's is the perfect hangout for anyone after work. Imagine New Orleans meets Vietnam. As a low-key wine bar, their vino list is very interestingly put together. They have plenty of surprising gems from all over the world. Happy hour means USD 3 glasses of wine; and summer means Portuguese Vinho Verde, nothing more refreshing. Khon's also has a solid selection of delicious beers, including Abita varieties from New Orleans. Take a load off and play darts while shooting the breeze with the friendly owner/operators, or sit and enjoy an eye-opening coffee while finishing up some computer work, the free WiFi is really fast! -Adam Rosen

This sprawling midtown bar has plenty of room for all - and perhaps a hanging lamp for every patron. The ceiling is studded with Tiffany style stained glass lamps of every possible hue. It's easy to become distracted from the conversation from looking at all the pretty lights. Rich, dark wooden and antique furniture abound and make for a very comfortable atmosphere in which to enjoy a beverage - including dollar-off drinks during daily happy hour from 4:30PM-9PM. The décor definitely transports to the Art Nouveau era, but the music may snap you back to the future. An unusual, but not jarring juxtaposition. -Gemma Amato

Friendly, charming and most definitely the best place to lounge at in the Midtown area, the Midtown Lounge is where you'll find locals relaxing at after work hours, who come here to be part of all the fun and happenings that the lounge offers. A local favorite, the place has regular offers on drinks and the food served. On the entertainment front, each day patrons can expect live quality performances. On the menu are excellent well prepared dishes, with preparations of Crawfish, Shellfish and Gumbo topping the menu charts. Rental services are available as well. Call ahead or check their website for more details.

Coffee Groundz serves coffee, cold drinks, tea as well as alcoholic beverages. The cafe has a nice selection of non-alcoholic beverages, especially coffee, but there is also a selection of wine, beer and other cocktails. This is a great spot to talk with friends or enjoy their free wifi while you have a drink. You can also enjoy snacks and food, such as salads and muffins.

Formerly the Whiskey Creek, now Republika, this place has taken a whole new meaning on nightlife, still maintaining its charm. Locals love the place for its simplicity, chilled out ambiance and yes, the very friendly and interactive crowd. The place has a charming set up with great decor. The place has an excellent list of alcoholic ales and spirits. The fancy bar tenders will fix you up with some stylish drinks as well. On the music front, the numbers churned out are just mind blowing and will surely make your feet prance on the dance floor. The weekend tends to see a larger crowd hop by, which is why one should get here early. Call them for more details on the guest list or for reservations.

Tucked in between Julia's Bistro on one end of the block and The Continental Club at the other, lies a venue that offers a little something for everyone on any given night - given its three venues in one. Ignore the non-descript exterior-except to note that the front bar is called The Mink. Head straight through the loungers enjoying a cocktail on the plush couches at The Mink to The Backroom where some of the best local and visiting DJs - including Houston legend DJ Squincy Jones - get their groove on Thursday nights for Speakerboxx. - JoAnn Takasaki