Montrose

Anvil Bar & Refuge

Inspired by classic cocktails from every generation, Anvil serves drinks in a renovated auto mechanic shop from the late ‘50s. Experienced bartenders use fresh ingredients, infused liquors, homemade bitters and old school recipes. For a more mellow evening, the unusual menu also offers an alternating selection of about 15 American micro-brewed beers. This bar focuses on revitalizing the craft of the bartender. 1424 Westheimer Road, Ste. B, Houston. 713-523-1622. anvilhouston.com

BJ Oldies Antiques

One of the staples of Montrose is the variety of antique shopping. One of the oldest antique stores in the area, BJ Oldies provides Houston’s antique scavengers with extremely rare and wild pieces of furniture and décor. If you’re missing that vintage vanity, a one-of-a-kind end table or simply an afternoon of window shopping, this shop won’t disappoint.

1435 Westheimer Road, Houston. 832-651-8477. bjoldiesantiqueshop.com

Brasil Café

Brasil offers a wide selection of an interesting take on classic home-style cooking. This is a one-stop shop for all types of gourmet food options, as their menu ranges from classic brunch items to light late-night snacks. Brasil has something for everyone no matter your age. With various coffees and teas, a nice selection of wine and beer, and food inspired from all over the world, this café will turn you into a regular customer. 2604 Dunlavy St., Houston. 713-528-1993. brasilcafe.net

The Guild Shop

The Guild Shop has taken donations and provided clothing, crafts and furniture to Houston shoppers for nearly 50 years and has been voted the number one resale shop in the city by numerous organizations. Most of the shop’s staff is comprised of volunteers, and the proceeds go to St. James House—a retirement home in Baytown—along with several other local charities. For uncommon clothing, gifts, artwork, jewelry or home décor, The Guild Shop always has new items to offer. 2009 Dunlavy St., Houston. 713-528-5095. theguildshop.org

Mark’s American Cuisine

Repeatedly voted Houston’s most romantic destination for lunch and dinner, Mark’s is located in a renovated church originally built in the ‘20s. The menu brings together unique, fresh ingredients for classic American dishes and is often printed twice daily. Whether it’s the next company dinner or a romantic night out for two, the atmosphere at Mark’s will allow you an escape from the daily routine. 1658 Westheimer Road, Houston. 713-523-3800. marks1658.com

Poison Girl

One of the most popular dive bars in the area, Poison Girl is a must-see. With a long, narrow bar and open back patio, you will witness all walks of life. You can order a variety of classic cocktails and choose from a variety of wine and beer, but the most common drink order there may be the ever-so-popular and affordable Lone Star beer. 1641 Westheimer Road, Ste. B, Houston.713-527-9929

Rudyard’s British Pub

There are dozens of places serving British pub food, but very few have the charm of Rudyard’s. With plenty of parking and live music most nights, this local dive bar remains a staple of the area. While the food may be reminiscent of European specialties, the atmosphere personifies Montrose. Rudyard’s brings it all together: lunch and dinner, drink specials, beer tasting, sports, darts, stand-up comedy and local bands. 2010 Waugh Drive, Houston. 713-521-0521. rudyardspub.com