13 celsius

"Nearly everyone else here is on a date, so you probably should be, too. The Midtown wine bar 13 Celsius is great not only for its seasonally curated wine list, but also for the candle-lit ambiance, historic architectural patina, and being altogether dreamy and romantic. Whether you sit at the bar, a table, or the patio, service is always attentive and discreet. Trade glances over charcuterie, slowly snack on baked brie or duck rillettes, or order the toast-your-own s’mores for dessert with someone you want to get closer to." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas, julie takahashi

"Nearly everyone at 13 Celsius is on a date, so you probably should be, too. This Midtown wine bar is great not only for its seasonally curated wine list but also for the moody space. It’s in a renovated old dry cleaners building, and in a city that loves to bulldoze, cuddling on leather couches next to old stuff feels positively European. Whether you sit at the bar, a table, or the patio, service is always attentive and discreet. Trade glances over charcuterie, slowly snack on baked brie and duck rillettes and order the toast-your-own s’mores with someone you want to get closer to." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene, julie takahashi

"13 Celsius sits on the outskirts of Midtown. It has a gritty warehouse appearance that is offset by the full white marble bar and a glass wine storage structure, which is set at the perfect temperature. Nosh on a classic cheese and charcuterie plate or baked brie with fruits and nuts, and choose from over 100-plus carefully curated wines and beers. For added romance, take a seat on the outdoor patio, which is reminiscent of a European countryside cafe." - Brittany Britto Garley, Nadia Gire

"After a night at the ballet, cruising around museums, or making awkward small talk with coworkers at whatever convention brings you to Houston, decompress at the candle-lit wine bar 13 Celsius. Apart from a stellar wine list and more by-the-glass options than other spots, 13 has a romantic charm. Partly because, unlike Houston’s general penchant for tearing down and rebuilding everything, this place looks like it opened in 1935 and never changed. Snacking on baked brie and duck rillette with a glass of Zweigelt or Chenin Blanc just feels better here, especially if you have to fight Houston traffic." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene

"Named after the ideal temperature of a wine cellar, 13 Celsius showcases its selection of dozens of wines in flights, tastings, and at its in-house bottle shop, where beers and wines purchased to go are discounted by 20 percent. The wine bar also offers 30 seasonal bottled beers, cheese and charcuterie boards, paninis, and homemade truffles, which can be enjoyed outside on its newly renovated patio." - Brittany Britto Garley