The Weekly Circuit
Your Guide to a Week's worth of Gay Fun in Houston
MONDAY
Siphon Coffee is the perfect spot to kick off the week with a delicious cup of coffee and pastry. Whether you’re getting some work done, reading a book, or just enjoying a solo day off, the vibes at Siphon are cool and calm, and it is situated right in the heart of Montrose.
The Original Ninfa's on Navigation, a Tex-Mex staple in Houston for over 50 years, features a menu that packs flavorful bites, boozy margs, and more! There is no better way to start a week off than with a bowl of queso and tacos al carbon in a historic H-Town institution.
Close out Monday with Houston’s only Broadway revue, The Broad’s Way at Michael’s Outpost. If you’re looking to end your day with showtunes, cocktails, and lively company, then The Broad’s Way is the show for you!
TUESDAY
Kick off your day with a coffee and breakfast taco (or two) at Brass Tacks in EaDo (East Downtown). It’s the perfect spot to enjoy hip vibes and delicious menu options, all in a cool part of town.
Lunch is served at the original Barnaby’s Cafe on Fairview! Burgers, salads, sandwiches and much, much more await you at this Gayborhood staple. Tuesdays at Barnaby’s means $3 beers and house wines for lunch and dinner. It’s the perfect casual spot to enjoy a delicious meal in Montrose!
Soak up some fresh air and culture at Miller Outdoor Theatre. Pack a picnic and blanket and head to Hermann Park to catch a free performance on the hill at the iconic outdoor theater. Check their website to make sure something is on stage. If not, it’s still the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and an evening with friends.
WEDNESDAY
It’s Hump Day! Start off with a coffee at Black Hole Coffee House in Montrose. It’s a favorite neighborhood shop that serves up delicious java for morning commuters and folks looking to start the day on a nice, slow note.
You’re already in the neighborhood, so hop over to The Menil Collection to enjoy some unique art, all for free. The Menil attracts locals throughout the week on its lawn for reading, communing, and just soaking up some sun rays. It’s also positioned within walking distance to great eateries, such as The Waffle Bus, on West Alabama.
End your night with a nightcap at JR’s Bar & Grill (photo above), the quintessential gay hangout, and sing your heart out at karaoke on their stage at 9 pm, and stick around for some fabulous Houston drag at 11 pm.
THURSDAY
It’s almost Friday! Thursday in Houston kicks off with coffee at La La Land Kind Cafe, located in the Montrose Collective along Westheimer Road. This bright and beautiful coffee shop is a perfectly positive space to start your day off on a high note. While you're there, peruse the shops and eateries in the Montrose Collective and enjoy the vibes of the new space.
Museums are free on Thursdays! Put on your comfiest shoes and choose the museums that speak to you. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and more all open their doors to visitors to come and access their exhibits free of charge.
Grab your dauber and head to Drag Bingo at Eureka Heights Brew Co. to enjoy some choice beers, food truck bites, and fun! This Heights brewery is a neighborhood hotspot for beer lovers, runners, collectors, and drag enthusiasts alike. The brewery’s calendar features something every night of the week, so keep an eye out for updates as you plan your days ahead.
FRIDAY
It’s Friday, so bring on breakfast! Skip over to EaDo for some of the city’s best breakfast tacos at Brothers Taco House. You can’t miss the pink exterior as you make your way to select your favorite tacos from a menu complete with homemade tortillas, salsas, and more. The line may look long at times, but it moves fast and the food is worth the wait!
Houston isn’t always conducive to outdoor shenanigans (i.e., it’s comically hot most of the year), so finding indoor entertainment is always a good plan. Venture downtown for indoor mini golf, food, and drinks at Puttshack, head to POST Houston for its massive food hall and scenic rooftop views of the city, or visit Rice Village to peruse their shops, including clothing, desserts, restaurants, and more!
Wind down with dinner in Montrose at Barcelona Wine Bar on Westheimer Road. Charcuterie and cheese, tapas, large plates, and cocktails that will knock your socks off are just a few of the offerings at this intimate eatery that has made a name for itself in Bayou City. If wine is more your vibe, you’re in luck! Wines by the glass and flights are available on the extensive menu of reds, whites, and more! Pro tip, end your night with the olive oil cake—you won’t be disappointed!
South Beach is the gay bar that is perfect for those looking to dance the stress of the week away. The 10,000-square-foot dance club features an array of music, go-go dancers and stiff drinks all night. Enjoy the dancefloor and numerous bars positioned around the venue. If you get your dancing fix, you’re within walking distance of several other gay bars!
SATURDAY
Kicking off Saturday with a hearty meal is the key for a successful weekend! Montrose boasts plenty of restaurants to choose from when it comes to brunching with friends. Postino Wine Bar in Montrose, Hungry’s in Rice Village, Jūn in the Heights, are just a few great options for groups or couples to kick off the day with delicious bites and bevvies.
The world is your oyster and Houston has something for everyone! Grab some friends and head to PKL Social or East River 9 for pickleball, bites, and drinks. Get artsy and view some one-of-a-kind art at the historic Project Row Houses. Shop til you drop on West 19th Street and enjoy some coffee and tacos while you’re there!
Mix up your nightlife with some two-stepping and line dancing at Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon. A huge dancefloor, karaoke, multiple bars, and gays dancing the night away all await at this historic honky tonk on Hempstead. Its location is a bit off the beaten path, but once you’re there, you’re home.
SUNDAY
Sunday Brunch is served at Rich’s Houston, a vibe restaurant, elevated cocktail lounge & boutique day & nightlife experience located in Montrose, Houston. The extensive brunch menu is set in one of Houston’s top gay bars and packs a major flavorful punch. Book your reservation and get ready to enjoy drag performances, choice cocktails, and community at this fun-filled dining experience.
If Sunday Funday is your calling, then kick those Sunday Scaries to the curb in Montrose. Eagle Houston’s patio and balcony are the place to be on Sunday afternoons starting around 4 p.m. and well into the evening. It is a chill environment to relax and unwind before the start of another work week. Don’t forget to visit the Eagle Trading Co., a small store located inside the bar for jewelry, shirts, and all your other needs.