I used to come to this bar about 20 years ago when they had pool tables. We would walk next door from WCG law firm, and it was very convenient to have a few drinks while traffic cleared up. The bar looks nice and still great to visit. We had a Scarlett (owner) drink 🍸, which is a lemon 🍋 drop martini. The bartender was great and friendly.
This dive bar has such an interesting vibe! It’s exactly what you would expect, an old school hole-in-the-wall. My group went to listen to a blues band (The Lightin Brothers) and we were NOT disappointed! (It was however extremely load) The bar tender was nice and it had a surf documentary playing on the bars TV. I got 2 Rum and Cokes and it only cost $11.
Leons lounge has such great flavor! Jerry is my favorite bartender, hes knowledgeable, and can make a killer bloody Mary! He is also very easy on the eyes and easy to talk to. He is also a VERY GIFTED TAROT READER 🔮Go check him out!
Great place to pop in for a drink or 3 😁, the bartender Jerrys got a phenomenal personality, killer smile, and definitely knows his way around a bar.Great live music! Glad to know places like this still exist. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Revised review: we had a great time here, the music was amazing, and the staff were great. But the lady at the door (who was very nice, by the way) forgot to tell us that there was a difference in price in the cover charge if you pay cash or credit card. When I tried to let the company know, I got an incredibly nasty, petty, immature reply. I tried to let them know what was wrong. The person refused to give me their name even though I asked who I was messaging with. Incredibly unprofessional. I will not be going back. Its such a shame. A simple apology and show of appreciation for my business would have kept me a happy customer. Its a test case in self-sabotage.
My husband and I are very talented DJs... Well-respected in Houston We were expecting to have drink here.. BUT two male bartenders were too busy making tik tok videos all over a female costumer didnt even acknowledge us or told us they would be right with us horrible experience
You should really check this bar out!! 🍸 The drinks are great ( especially on Wednesday and Thursdays)! Thursday is eighties night! It will bring back those forgotten Friday and Saturday nights!! So great!!
Came in vibe was ok, service sucked the bartender basically had to time to explain to us how he never has people in there so he’s trying to get everyone situated, he’s sorry he talks so much but that he will be with us shortly. Then proceeded to that 4 more times with other people or was just chatting at the other end of the bar… 30 min we got a drinks, he offered to make us free shots or cocktails for the wait, when we asked about them another 20 min later he asked if we could wait longer.. honestly it was super weird. Live music was good though
My blind friend was brutally assaulted & died at this bar! The owner never even called the cops. They also erased the video. Happen August 2023. These people are straight up evil trash.
The staff was very friendly. The atmosphere in the lounge is cozy and comfortable. We didn’t have to wait for our drinks. We also enjoyed a great live band called Hatbox.. this style of music was perfect for this Lounge. We really enjoyed ourselves. Looking forward to our next trip out to Leon’s ..
Weird atmosphere but the decor is cool. Perhaps we would have had a different opinion of the place if the bands had already started performing when we were there. Without them, it was just very sterile.The gentleman behind the bar did buy my graduate niece a celebratory shot, so that was nice.
Great spot. Live music and good service.
Bartenders and environment is the toppest of all tiers , 10/10 coming here! COME HERE!!
My sister and niece went to Leon’s Lounge for the first time and not only is it the oldest bar in Houston, we think it is the best. The drinks were perfect and the musician playing the piano and singing was very good. We sat at the bar and the decor was amazing. We met the owner, Charlotte, and she was friendly and funny. We will be back soon for sure!
Amazing bar with a great bartender, great vibe and great drinks
Great venue! Skilled bartenders with personality. Classic & clean lounge atmosphere beautifully decorated with a wide range of spirits and infinite ways to combine them. Excellent scotch selection. Occasionally they host small jazz acts which makes for a wonderful evening. Come classy, leave lesser so.
Came here to listen to some jazz. Was a good time overall and really enjoyed the music. The cover charge was somewhat strange for such a bar, more so since no table service and waiting to get a drink took a bit.
Leon’s Lounge boasts of being the oldest bar in Houston. I felt like I went back in time when we walked in and had a seat. It was nearly empty at first, but a crowd eventually gathered around the old fashioned bar. The decor gave it a cozy feel that made you feel like you were in an old movie from the 50’s. There is also a stage area and other seating away from the bar if you want your own space. We’ll be back again some time soon.
Very unique spot. This is one of the oldest bars in Houston! The drinks were cold and the service amazing and polite.
This place is the oldest lounge in history it smells like it and they charge to watch the band. The best part was the lady singing from France. Nothing else to say..I wont return..
Holy hell how are you guys still around and not Mongoose across the street? Back in 17 I went bar hopping with some friends and your bartenders flipped me off when I asked for a whiskey highball. Whiskey + topo is all I was literally asking for and they treated me like I was asking for a French 75 with gold foil. I havent even bothered to go by since then because the Team Edward vibes wasnt worth it but a recent acquaintance bringing up a similar problem made me do a double take.
Staff rudely interrupted a performance of a band to kick them off for a jazz band that supposedly threatened to leave if we were not out of there. It was hotter in the building than it was outside, the staff was disrespectful and creepy, and from responses of the owner on other reviews, unprofessional. This situation would have held better had there been a professional, civil conversation between the staff and the band asked to leave.
Awesome bar that Ive walked by for years but never tried until the other night. Drinks are great and the bartenders are top of the line! I will be back, soon (maybe tonight)!
EDIT 10/26: This place is under new management and is TERRIBLE. Totally different vibe, different staff. Not the same place.Leons is the place to go if you want to feel like a local. The drinks are strong, the people are friendly, and theres a great live music scene. The ambiance is perfect for a low key night, both indoors and out.
Had no issues until the bartender rudely forced us off stage, and tried to interrupt us mid song, because a band (that was not listed on the flyer or published online) said that if they didn’t have the stage they would leave.We understand that bands were running behind, but when we are promised 45 mins, we should receive the entire 45 mins.The band ahead of us was very talented and definitely matched the vibe of the venue.. but we had PAYING audience to see our band.Wouldn’t recommend this place for any bands moving forward.updated response:I understand that each band was said to have 45 minutes, and the time was supposed to follow, but it’s live music? What do you expect. Things and people get behind, it would’ve gone down a lot smoother if the bartender didn’t attempt to interrupt us mid song, and tell us we had to get out now, as if it was an evacuation.As for the tall boys, I know none of the band members, or friends that I went home with tonight, brought a tall boy, but you can point fingers all you would like. My friends and band mates, all bought from your bar, as we support the “oldest bar in houston”. I’m not denying you, it surly could’ve happened (the tall boys) , but you should’ve escorted them off the premises, INSTEAD of cutting my band off.As for the money, I don’t think that should be brought into this, as we didn’t agree to the gig because we were being paid, we agreed to the gig to have our music be played to a new audience, which we were deprived of.Thank you for letting the bands play tonight and for giving us your space, but maybe get some new management, owner, and bartender, just saying as a friend.Also, maybe handle the creepy guy hitting on all the teenage girls that lived upstairs.
Feels historical walking in. First bar in Houston. Just an exciting tagline to hear. Comedy open mics are a fun time with a small enough crowd that it feels personal. The bartenders Ive met have all been super nice as well
The bartender is breaking the law. I went there last night for jazz night to meet up with my niece (which is currently 20 but wanted to go see jazz) when I got there she was already intoxicated with her underaged friends! This is unacceptable the young man at the bar never checked the ID at all. Definitely need to call somebody about this. Idk his name but he doesnt need to be serving alcohol.
This is a small, eclectic bar that is off the beaten path. This is a welcome, casual, change of pace from the aggressive vibe of midtown proper. The staff is friendly and the drinks are reasonably priced. It isnt very big, but every time I have been there I didnt have trouble finding space at the bar. The atmosphere is very relaxed and hip, very fitting of the descriptor lounge.
Had a wonderful experience with great atmosphere and drinks. Scotty B playing classic cover songs keeping the guest entertained was amazing. Will come back again!!!
This hurricane season afforded me so much time to find a few little gems in Houston. Leons Lounge is one of them. I enjoyed both bartenders and the band. It was a nice environment to sip n chill. I only gave 4 stars because once the band took a break, there was no music to vibe to. For me, music and drinks are always the right answer!!
A beautiful little hole in the wall with a vintage look and drinks to die for. The bartenders are dedicated and talkative. As its not a rotating cast of part-timers, its easy to get on a first name basis with most. A plus is the live music occasionally played in a tiny stage at the back of the establishment. One of my all-time favorite bars conveniently situated by the metro.
The music is pretty poor, weexspectrd jazz, what we got wad something between rock and techno.they should not be charging to get in for that?! Will not returning anyin time sopn
The bartender Javier was excellent. We didnt know what to order, but he suggested his specialty. I must say it was a great drink! You have to try the jolly rancher too. Great service and drinks
Stopped by this awesome bar after a concert at the Rise Rooftop, what a gem! Great drinks in a cool atmosphere and Rob the bartender was fantastic! Will definitely be back next time were in Midtown.
This review is for jb more than the bar. He was so knowledgeable and friendly that my friend and I couldnt help but to enjoy ourselves. Plus he made a mean Manhattan!The bar itself is visually appealing, they have a great range of liquors, hopefully there will be a larger crowd next time I go back.
I loved this place, been there only a few times for shows before they changed up the format. It really had a cool vibe but doubtful the crowd would be my thing now just from what I can tell from social media. five stars for what the bar was like before,3 stars now for the good location & the style of the bar.I cannot give a full review of how it is now since I havent been back after they changed it up.
Great bartender. He was closing up and let me and my cousin visit and finish our drinks. Then he took photos of us there. It was our first time to see see one another in almost 40 years. The bartender was so kind and understanding when we dropped in at the last minute out of the cold air on one of the last nights of 2019.
Great place! Drinks are a little pricey, but the quality of them makes up for the price in my opinion. The live music and the people is the best part I think. :) It feels welcoming.
I recently came about this little gem. This is the oldest bar in houston and boy does this bar have charm the inside is just breathtaking if your in houston you MUST visit this bar! The staff is very welcoming and friendly, the drinks are strong they have plenty of sitting place. The outside patio is great very relaxing.They do have specials so after work or a long day stop by and enjoy!!
Still the best bar vibe in all of Downtown Houston. A long sprawling bar is accompanied by great service, a nice selection of basic liquors and beers, and a usually quiet atmosphere. Certain nights they have bands play and the lounge area is quite cozy. I highly recommend it as a first date spot for really getting to know someone as well as taking advantage of their happy hour specials. Parking can be a bit small but there are plenty areas open on nearby streets. There is a small patio out front for smokers, and each drink is usually poured as a double - so enjoy!
One of my fav dive bars especially on Sundays very low key, live music, good drinks, great atmosphere and kool bartender, took my buddy who has never been he liked, only downfall is the homeless people situation making it kinda feel unsafe
Love the ambiance. Tiffany lamps with with chic accents were very comfortable. Bartender was great and he made me a fabulous French 75. Nice place for conversation and comfort.
Its been seven months since we went here and I STILL talk about this place! Its a very small and pleasant location with a really nice little patio. When we arrived they were about to shut down because it had been a slow night but they stayed open just for our group. We had a great time hanging out and chatting with the staff and will most certainly be back when we are in town.
The owner, Scarlett Yarborough, is a gracious, brilliant, creative, hostess. She has kept Houston’s most beautiful speakeasy alive in its purity. It’s a wonderful venue to host weddings, poetry nights, songwriter nights and comedy nights.
They say this is the oldest continually operating bar in Houston. This was my first time there. Love the ambiance and the decor, is a little retro. The people were cool and the place was chill. We will bring going back.
This place gets two stars for its historic contribution to Houston and an additional star for the decor. Other than that...meh. I was REALLY excited to try this bar due it being coined as the first bar in Houston. But this first has definitely become last for me. The drinks are HORRIBLE. Now, as an “older” seasoned drinker, these drinks remind me of those classic $2 you-call-its you’d find at a club; they cost way more than $2 here. With all the new bars popping up that offer fresh, tasty craft cocktails, this spot was a disappointment. My drink tasted like sugary, premixed syrup with a splash of liquor. And not just any liquor....Taka Vodka *sigh*. My liquor snobbery seems to be full force on this one. But I have yet to meet ANYONE that enjoys Taka, and I don’t know of many places who would choose this as their house option, aside from frat parties and clubs that need metal detectors. Now, if cheap drinks don’t disturb your pallet, this place isn’t that bad. The ambiance was good, they offer live music, and its laid back vibe is perfect to chat with some good folks and enjoy a good evening. With all that being said, trying this place wasn’t a total disappointment...just the drinks.
Small and quiet on yesterday (Friday) my husband and I went here to have drinks and chat.. Javier the bartender was great.. I asked him about specials and he gave me a full run down on what I wld get with a certain drink special. There was no band.. which was not a problem for me.. nice spot
Had a great time at Leons with all the good people that work there. You people are awesome, the food was excellent as well as the staff. Will definitely make it out there again and invite my friends. I recommend this place to anyone looking for a great time.
Ass holes were charging $25 to sit on their patio for a block party that was suppose to be taking place in the parking lot at the bar across the street. I had no idea what band was playing over there but you could hear them from the rail station. My friend and I simply wanted a drink and sit out on the patio and people watch.
Im so happy this bar re-opened! Its my favorite kinda atmosphere to enjoy an amesome drink. Im a whiskey girl at heart, so this is the place for me. These bartenders know what theyre doing! Cheers Houston!!!!!
Really cute place, there was a cover for a live band that wasnt very good. I ordered an old fashioned and it was also pretty bad. Wouldnt go back.
Not at all what it once was, but it would be foolish to actually have this expectation. Locals only dive with bartenders who could talk to anyone, $2 Texas Tuesdays, shuffleboard, Little Joe Washington on the piano, hustling for drinks. Now just another Midtown bar filled with people from the outskirts trying to outdo each other.In the end I guess Im just an old guy reminiscing.....
Staff is very knowledgable about the spirits they carry and the music on Saturday nights is an awesome mix of funk, soul, hip hop and even some zydeco - by both a live band and a dj. Thursdays vary with different live bands playing originals and covers ranging from rock to blues to country. Check it out!
I love this place! The live music is amazing! Stephen Richard is a wonderful jazz player, his music is great! The atmosphere is great, and service is excelent. Place is very clean.
There was a cover at the door. My boyfriend and I didnt have cash. I asked the door girl if there was a ATM because we didnt have cash. She shrugged her shoulders and said Its $10 a piece... So we left. I felt we should have been given the option to go to the bar and get cash back if there was no ATM.
Oh Lordy, I needed this place! As a person that isnt quite cool enough for midtown, I desperately needed a dive-ish bar where I can get away with my chucks and imperfect hair. Leons fits the bill!Despite being Houstons oldest bar (no, its not La Carafe), its not 100% a dive anymore, since they went through renovations and added some craft cocktails to the menu. However, its dive enough for me. The space is dim lit, the decor looks like its been in the building for decades (and never cleaned) and the drinks are wonderfully priced.On top of this, the gals behind the bar are quick and friendly, with just the perfect amount of bartender wit.If you make a point to get out early enough, theres usually street parking nearby, too.Im sold!
Man if you want a good strong cocktail this place is it. Everything they make taste great. A small selection of local beer is good. Highly recommend getting a lemon drop martini
Nice ambiance beautiful building and in the heart of the city. The host was a rapper that literally freestyled the entire time. Eyem a lyricist so eye could most definitely enjoy the creativity eye mean people were walking up to him whispering in his ear and he would incorporate their message into his. Alcohol was nice not watered down. They had a melanated feminine caterer she had macaroni and cheese, greens, yams. Their were mostly Caucasians there but they were cool they didnt cause any problems. 👿😂The djs were interesting they were cool im just not use to that type of music maybe it was house i dont know what it was. They mixed it up so i was able to get in my zone with some Future and Big Boi. My husband had a show there that night so yes they also have live performances.
Places set up really nice The Lovelace Bros. were playing a show there. Also the bartender was very helpful and had a wide selection of drinks and the customers were friendly too, they were really nice people great people great place great time
Place was dead which was weird cause across the street the other bar had a good crowd. Didnt even bother to go inside.
New bar manager has changed the bar. Not the same Leons. New bartenders also. Was known for great drinks and ambiance. Old Leons crowd has moved to Community Bar.
Went on Sunday for Monkey Drag Bingo. Funny and great people work here. Open just for bingo on Sundays 2 to 6. Hilarious fun. Bottomless Mimosas for $ 20 with Sunday bingo. Come give it a try
I love it! The atmosphere everything , the new bartender was so kind and nice to us I love her vibe !
Small, comfy dive bar with occasional live music, friendly staff, and reasonable drink prices. Park in Downtown, ride the train to McGowen (2min), and make this your warm up spot for the night.
Awesome band. Not to crowded, however is a small club. People sit close. Drinks are good but expensive.
It really has a lounge ambience. Music is awesome, you can really dig it. It is a really good place to chill, dance and talk. Decor is classy and cozy.
Staff is so nice and helpful. As a welcome gesture, they served welcome drinks for special occasion.
The bartender Mia was cool. The atmosphere is chill, enjoyed my time there while watching game 2 of the World Series.
Love this old bar. Staff is great. Music vibes are nice too. Easy stop in Mid Town area
Nice ambience, great service at bar, good live music on Friday night. 4 cocktails came to $26. Very reasonable.
This bar is very cozy and the staff is very friendly. It has an area to loung inside thats dim-lit just in case you want to leave the wife at home and take your girlfriend out.
Cool lounge. Great music. Welcoming host. Variety of crafted cocktails. Theres outdoor patios in the front. There are booths and bar seating.
Place was great atmosphere and music was outstanding. I met my future wife here
Such a gorgeous little gem of a place to have a drink. Cozy, nostalgic, romantic place and great bartenders!
One of the top ten bars/lounges in Houston, in my opinion. Relaxing with vintage decor, live entertainment on some nights, and excellent bartenders put it above others.
Chill bar with great live music and a go to for happy hour drinks !
Cool dive bar in close proximity to the train. Strong drinks + fair price = great time.TIP WELL PLEASE
Saw Band on the Run in the venue. Intimate spot with kind bar staff
Always a great time. Great music and great atmosphere.
Thank you all for allowing us to have comedy shows there. Its a great room for it!
Love the bartender he made my Tom Collins with my cherries perfectly and he was friendly thanks again real chill bar I liked it Ill be back soon.
Classy beautiful jazz place filled with great drinks and nice people 😀
Lovely bar, one of the oldest in Houston. Bartenders are great and would heavily recommend to anyone
This was a nice stop on our way home for a beer. Wednesday is open mic night.
Super chill spot I love cooking here when I dont want to be in a big crowd. Love their Manhattans.
Great little dive bar with flavor! High crime area, so park somewhere safe.
Very nice place, jass music live all Saturdays.
Great pour, friendly bartenders, great live music a few nights a week. Its the complete package!
Drinks are the S*** here! The Green on Red Cocktail is the best. The whiskey Smash Cocktail is pretty good.
Very nice place for live music poetry comedy and. Karaoke
Great empanadas to munch on while enjoying a well crafted cocktail, not too busy so it was easy to get attention from the bartender
Cool little place. friendly waitstaff and bartenders. it’s like a clean dive!
There is a menu online, but, they actually dont serve food.
Lets just say the DJ is on point, the live band is on point on a Saturday night and the dranks are strong and reasonable!
Lovely place off the beaten path. I met some really awesome people there, and their Long Island Iced The is off.the.chain!
Didnt know where to go, stopped here for one and didnt leave. Patrick the bar man was on point!!! Absolutely brilliant wee night. Thanks phat Pat!!!!
Had so much fun, definitely going back! Very intimate and chill dive bar
Amazing vibe. Great live music. Excellent pour on the beverages.
Great staff. Excellent liquors. All around a wonderful experience.
Great spot with fantastic atmosphere, awesome staff. Alex makes the best Manhattan in town.
Very Elegant Upscale Bar Perfect To Take Your Loved One!
Got there right after they opened. Great drinks, good vibe
Always a great time here. Music was live and perfect for the Knob Creek I was sipping on.
Great place for good cocktails and socializing.
Great cocktails. Friendly bartender. Cool crowd. Good prices.
Great, Low key, cozy little bar. Good music venue also
In love with this place, especially on a Wednesday night. I havent went in any other night, I probably should though.
Its a very small space but I did enjoy the live music and the decor.
Loved the atmosphere but the drinks were like water
Very low-key spot. Nice guys that work behind the bar. Nice intimate party spot.
Classic. Bartender authentic and definitely represent the oldest bar in Texas vibe.
Great chill place for drinks and live bands.
My new Favorite Spot!!!! Great look, people and wonderful bartenders.
Pretty unique environment. Makes for a nice nightcap and end point to the night. Never too crowded.
It wears pretty dry there without the band. I can sit and chat at home ..
Loved this spot. Excellent pours! Unique atmosphere. Great service!
So much fun on a Saturday afternoon. Thanks Tim from Titos and chocolate martini
Best service great cocktails delicious empanadas. Place to come relax away from the crazy
Love the live music and honey bourbon drinks but when the live music stop I roll out.
Loved it! Very relaxing, great bar staff!
Looks creepy and dark
Intimate music venue. Houstons oldest bar. Great staff.
Decent spirit selection, one of houston oldest bars. Chill spot.
Hey Google, I was just there Saturday and it is most definitely not closed. The old owner owns the phone number you have listed.
Very relaxing. I enjoyed my time with my manMusic perfect volume
I called many times no reply … what days you have live jazz?
Non-bearded bartender is a d*ck and will scoff at ANY drink you order.
Bartender was rude and not inviting at all
Quiet, quaint place to get a good drink. a true hidden gem.
Bud took great care of us.
Nice place, small but clean, slow service at the bar.
Bartender needs to see a shrink! Awful.
Great drinks, cozy and you must visit with friends.
Great speakeasy vibes! I can’t believe this gem isn’t busier than it is
Its the oldest bar and the best hangout I know of
Love the vintage vibes. Very rustic. LOVE IT HERE!
My first visit ... perhaps it was to late at night for me to enjoy it.
Laid back and comfortable environment TVs Games showing nice music
Great bar with blues and jam bands.
Nice bar but way to small and crowded as hell.
A very unique bar. Excellent service.
Fun place, knowledgeable bartenders. A bit pricey.
Tall shots and heavy pours.. are the norm at this underappreciated tucked away bar.
Great ambience and terrific music!! A little small
Small and cozy place. Great atmosphere.
One of the best dive bars in the city.
Its fun and they have live music.
Very cool place to hang out. Great staff.
Beautiful place, so comfortable and cozy ... with history ...🧐
Good bar
Fun little bar to grab a few drinks at and people watch.
Had one of the best tuesday nights of my life here
Atmosphere is great....always a good time.
Great drinks. Never watered down.
Great time and excellent drinks
Nice venue for yr punk rock shows
Best bar in Houston hands down.
Love Leons ... Comfortable and awesome bartender...
Nice lounge, great atmosphere and music
Great atmosphere, and excellent customer service
Strong drinks, elegant atmosphere..
Awesome Jazz Spot Keto rocks
Finally a real bar that knows how to make a drink.
Great bartender and atmosphere.
Strong drinks, good ambiance.
Amazing. The atmosphere, the people, the vibe.
A great place to have fun.
Best, wonderful service, We love it ❤️❤️❤️
Great bar from the 20s
Good beer, and freindly folks.
Great live music playing