Houston's Local Pour is a primo spot for enjoying a fine beer while you catch the big game on the big screen. It’s also a great place to get down with some live music.

Go there to enjoy one of their huge roster of draft and bottled beers. Local Pour's weekend brunch is a great time to stop in for Eggs Benedict Florentine, St. Arnold Belgian Waffle, Mushroom & Arugula Quiche, Shrimp & Grits, or Breakfast Tacos with charred corn salsa.

Tasty sandwiches are also on the menu.  Choose from Chicken & Avocado, and Bavarian Black Forest Ham, among other options. Local Pour's entrée menu features taste pleasers like Sirloin Beef Kabobs, Grilled Scallops & Roasted Leeks, Wild Mushroom & Shrimp Risotto, and Herb Roasted Grilled Chicken.

Local Pour
1952 West Gray
Houston, TX 77019
(713) 521-1881
http://www.localpourhouston.com/

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Danielle Scott

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2014!

Anvil Bar and Refuge in Montrose is a popular cocktail bar housed in an old tire shop from the 1950s. Everything about Anvil screams vintage, from the exposed brick walls and ductwork to the antique drinkware and stylish reclaimed wood lamps.

The cocktail menu changes frequently, but always features bitters made in house, crafty infusions, and a special emphasis on local ingredients. Crowd favorites include the Long Point Sour (gin with key lime, cardamom, and kaffir leaf) and the Grass Roots (amaro, rum, coconut, raspberry, lime, almond, and grass jelly).

The menu is divvied up by what flavor you're looking for, but don't be overwhelmed if you're not sure what you want. The staff is highly trained and has no qualms explaining the drink selection or even selecting a cocktail on your behalf. Anvil Bar and Refuge is a great choice for a night out trying something new.

Anvil Bar and Refuge
1424 Westheimer Road
Houston, TX 77006
(713) 523-1622
http://www.anvilhouston.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/anvil-bar-and-refuge-houston

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/ninacoco