#ANVIL HOUSTON SERIAL#
#ANVIL HOUSTON WINDOWS#

'If there happens to be a slight wait for a seat, we would suggest waiting next door at Anvil.' Naturally. 'We actually encourage walk-ins,' he said. Like at Anvil, Heugel has created a welcome space at Refuge, where reservations are not necessary. No reservations, no problem-at either bar. At Refuge, eats are limited to complimentary bar munchies like sesame sticks, pretzels, dried peas, and hard candies that come with your check. Here, you can nosh on mussels and razor clams, or heartier eats like the meaty serrano sandwich with kettle chips, while sipping a French 75. It may not be widely known, as it's overshadowed by Heugel’s award-winning cocktail program, but Anvil does indeed serve food. Jenn Duncan If you want to snack while you drink, head to Anvil.

'Refuge is where you go for when you're in the mood for an elevated experience, or when you really need to feel special on a Wednesday after a long day.'Ī neon sign provides some of the only light at the sexily lit Refuge. 'Anvil is where you go with a relaxed attitude,' said Heugel. Refuge's 7-foot ceilings add an extra layer of coziness. Watt feels 'like a wimp' after encounter with harmless snake in his bathroom One 'Candy Man' murder victim remains unidentified, 45 years after killer's death.Greg Abbott if he'll allow an abortion in viral political ad Cypress brewery now latest to close amid Houston beer shake-ups.

#ANVIL HOUSTON SERIAL#

Houston authorities working to ID 'Candy Man' serial killer's last unknown victim.Back to school ad shows Texas child wearing body armor for first day back.A narrow staircase opens up to a dimly lit bar on one side, and a separate lounge area on the other, illuminated only by a vintage replica Floridita Bar neon sign.

#ANVIL HOUSTON WINDOWS#

For a darker, moodier experience, opt for Refuge.Ī far cry from Anvil's large windows with views of Westheimer's busy car and pedestrian traffic, Refuge is dark and vibey, with only one tiny circular window in a corner. As far as any crossover between Refuge and Anvil, guests will note the Sazerac-also the name of Heugel's dog-on both menus, with the recipe at Refuge calling for a higher proof, fancy rye. Other Insta-worthy cocktails include the Fern Gully, a boozy and fruity beverage appropriately dressed with a long leafy green garnish, and Bobby’s Martini, presented on a custom-made tray with a variety of olives, cocktail pickles and onions. 'We are remaking the Martinez with spirits produced in the last three or four years.' 'We are embracing new spirits,' he said, using the Martinez, a cocktail known as the precursor to the martini, as an example. Heugel says that while Anvil is known for its 100 classic cocktails, Refuge takes a modern approach to its list. When it comes to the menu, there is little overlap. There are prized European brandies, new-wave amaros and shochu selections ranging from buckwheat to sweet potato, while the debut menu features nearly 20 cocktails. The latter's list may be smaller, but it’s a mighty one, made up of spirits you likely won’t see at other bars in Houston, including Anvil. While Anvil’s bounty nears 800 spirits, Refuge maxes out at 200. Jenn Duncan As far as spirits go, Anvil boasts a larger collection. The cocktails are creative and Insta-worthy at Refuge. While the differences in each bar-and its cocktails-lie in the eyes of the drink holder, let's take a look at how the neighboring concepts measure up. Heugel had a heavy hand in designing the space and its thoughtful nuances, down to selecting the linen coasters. 'Refuge feels like a bar you might find in a different city.'įrom the impressive glassware collection sourced by Heugel himself over the last two decades to the new and unique spirits that have appealed to him throughout his travels, Refuge is a deeply personal endeavor. 'Anvil was built for Houston,' said Heugel, recounting how the more than a decade-old concept served as a pioneer for cocktail bars of its style in the city.

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