Reserve 101

Cocktail bar · Downtown ·

Reserve 101

Cocktail bar · Downtown ·

Downtown whiskey destination with 1,000+ bottles, vintage pours, new facelift

Information

1201 Caroline St STE 100, Houston, TX 77002 Get directions

@eater

391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

The Best Bars in Houston | Eater Houston

"Reserve 101 is a standout among Houston’s bounty of cocktail bars, in part for its impressive whiskey offerings, which encompass more than 600 kinds from around the globe. The bar’s historic 1900s-era building sits on prime real estate near the Toyota Center, making it a popular stop for sports fans and concertgoers. However, it draws in visitors daily with its lively atmosphere and knowledgeable staff." - Brittany Britto Garley

https://houston.eater.com/maps/houston-best-bars

Reserve 101

@eater

391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

Where to Find Cocktails Made With Texas Whiskey | Eater Houston

"This downtown Houston bar has been around for over 15 years but closed for a few years to undergo renovation. It reopened to guests this March with an impressive lineup of new single-barrel picks and cocktails. The industrial interior is bedecked with monochrome-hued fixtures, luxe wood pillars and furnishings. Yes, Reserve 101’s new facelift is sensational, but the allure is the hundreds of whiskeys displayed on dimly lit shelves, like artwork enclosed in a museum’s glass case, begging to be enjoyed. The bar is stacked with something for everyone — from a whiskey-curious newbie to a longtime aficionado seeking a vintage pour they can’t experience anywhere else in the country. There’s also an impressive list of cocktail classics (they’re known for their signature R101 Old Fashioned) and experiential riffs on the Oil Money menu. For those who opt for their whiskey neat or on a fat block of ice, you’ll want to try Reserve 101’s new handpicked barrel exclusives: Waco-based Balcones Cask Strength Rye finished in a California Pinot barrel and Still Austin’s Cask Strength Bourbon." - Gabrielle Pharms

https://houston.eater.com/maps/7-excellent-bars-texas-whiskey-cocktails

Reserve 101

@eater

391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

The Best Kirkland Brand Alcohol to Buy at Costco | Eater

"Mentioned as a top whiskey bar in Houston whose owner, Mike Raymond, is active enough in the whiskey world to serve as a judge at national competitions, signaling strong whiskey credentials and expertise behind the bar." - Haley Hamilton

https://www.eater.com/21559490/best-alcohol-costco-kirkland-brand-ranked

Reserve 101

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

Downtown’s whiskey destination with a library of 1,000+ bottles and vintage pours, refreshed in 2024. Recognized by CultureMap’s Tastemaker coverage and industry lists; a must for serious sippers near the arenas.

https://www.reserve101.com/

Best Bars in Houston (2025)

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Reserve 101

Jeanette C.

Google

Fantastic service! The bartenders are knowledgeable, patient, accommodating, and last but not least, make great drinks. The old fashioned was balanced, not too much spice nor too sweet. The tequila mojito was refreshing and balanced as well. Least favorite drink due to sweetness was clarified New York sour with notes of tootsie roll pop and cheesecake. I did go from 5-7pm which contributed to the availability of the bartenders and chill vibes. Side note: essentially no food.

Ashley H

Google

I cannot recommend Reserve 101 enough! From the moment you walk through the door, you are hit with the most entrancing, intoxicating aroma—it’s that perfect mix of rich oak, caramelized sugar, and a hint of vanilla that immediately tells you you’re in for a high-end experience. It is simply divine. If you are looking for a cozy, upscale, and trendy atmosphere to enjoy a sophisticated drink in downtown Houston, this is the spot. I’ll be dreaming about that smell until my next visit! Speaking of drinks, they have over 1,000 different whiskies from 16 countries. The bartenders are true masters of their craft—incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and happy to help you find the perfect pour, whether it's one of their expertly crafted cocktails. The renovated, cozy, and dimly lit space is perfect for a date night or a deep dive into the world of whiskey. Do yourself a favor and stop by this downtown Houston gem. A must-visit!

Howie B.

Google

Stopped in after work with a group of 5. Cool bar on the corner, you can see the people walking by, brings the energy of the city into a cool little whiskey bar with minimalist decor. The Not-So-Old Fashioned with Stanahan’s Blue Peak was excellent (x3). The Alpine Glow also got great feedback!

Patrick W.

Google

Top notch place. Very knowledgeable in their alcohol. Great selection and fantastic service. The wofe and I have been here a week trying as many places as we can and Marc hands down make THE BEST espresso martini in the city! And its not even close Highly recommend a drink or two here

adan C.

Google

Great place with a lot of potential but for me customer service is number one. I do not care to pay any price for a drink but customer service is priceless. It seems the bar tenders are overworked and that is why we got the bad luck to be treated poorly but that is not an excuse. My wife and I were random people walking in and we felt like the bartender’s stress was dumped on us for no reason. I understand his frustration but nonetheless we did not deserve his poor treatment.

Claudia D

Google

I went to a private, company-hosted bourbon tasting and Reserve 101 is always amazing. It’s obvious that they’ve taken extra care to not only own their skill, but learn the proper way to prepare classic and creative cocktails. I’ve had the privilege of visiting quite a few times and every visit is exciting, educational and delicious. The staff are friendly and their recommendations are always spot-on! Hats off to the owner for not only hiring the right team, but ensuring that the atmosphere is sexy, but not pretentious.

Harris-Daniel

Google

Reserve 101 is 5-Star! While there is no food (hence the food 4-star rating), they have a NICE dish of lemon-zested olives & feta that did not interfere with the whiskey tastings. We ordered 2 of them. Our whiskey steward was Marc. We found him to be very nice and knowledgeable. For my husband's birthday, he customized a flight that he thoroughly enjoyed! I had the clarified sour that was topped with a Malbec. It was so smooth and yummy.

Jaime E.

Google

Fantastic spot! The cocktails were delicious, the service was excellent, and their bourbon selection was top-notch.