Poison Girl

"At this Montrose bar, you can pick your poison, including a variety of whiskeys and tequilas, but just know that bourbon — despite the big Kool-Aid man on the back patio — is the drink of choice. Enjoy the laidback atmosphere, and take in the sights of the various painted naked ladies on the walls, or test your skills at one of the pinball machines." - Brianna Griff

"Every city needs a reputable dive bar stocked with brown liquor, crusty locals, and a bathroom that’s seen better days. For Houston, that’s Poison Girl. Folks squeeze back and forth through the dark, narrow bar every night with zero respect for or expectation of personal space. Most people are just bar hopping up and down Westheimer. Some know of Poison Girl’s legendary bourbon selection, some exist solely as Montrose caricatures ordering rounds of Lone Star, and some don’t know how they ended up there in the first place. But everyone revels in the backyard patio atmosphere all the same." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas, julie takahashi

"Open for two decades, this no-frills, budget-friendly bar in the heart of Montrose packs plenty of personality within its narrow space, which features a row of working pinball machines, a backyard-style patio, and tall walls bedecked with paintings of naked women. The bourbon list is strong, but the bartenders won’t judge if you stick with a Lone Star beer or a plain ol’ vodka and soda." - Brittany Britto Garley

"This small dive doesn't put on airs, and it is easy to unwind here after a day of work. Pinball machines and nudie paintings line the wall, and there is a giant Kool Aid man on the back patio. They are known for their tremendous selection of whiskey and friendly patrons. So sit back, read the pinball machine displays, and drink like an adult." - Curiosity and Curiosities

"Every city needs a reputable dive bar stocked with brown liquor, crusty locals, and a bathroom that’s seen better days. For Houston, that’s Poison Girl. Folks squeeze back and forth through the dark, narrow bar every night with zero respect for or expectation of personal space. Most people are just bar hopping up and down Westheimer. Some know of Poison Girl’s legendary bourbon selection, some exist solely as Montrose caricatures ordering rounds of Lone Star, and some don’t know how they ended up there in the first place. But everyone revels in the backyard patio atmosphere all the same. photo credit: Quit Nguyen photo credit: Quit Nguyen photo credit: Quit Nguyen photo credit: Quit Nguyen photo credit: Quit Nguyen" - Chelsea Thomas