La Carafe   

The oldest haunt in Houston, La Carafe wine bar is less a ghost than a piece of living history, a timeless challenge to the contemporary nightclub scene. This cozy candle-lit tavern hasn't changed much in more than 125 years. The bar is similar to those in New York City from the same era; intimate and low lit, exuding a warmth and character that, like a fine vintage, only comes with the passage of time. Behind the counter, a fresh flame always flickers atop the effusive mound of wax that has formed from the fading of a thousand candles. La Carafe only serves wine or beer and can only ring you up on its now antique cash only register. Not only is the wine list carefully selected, but unlike any other establishments in town, it isn't marked up 300 percent. The diverse jukebox compliments the atmosphere with immortal tunes from Edith Piaf, Django Reinhart and Hank Williams. Stop by with a date or good friends to enjoy the coolest dive in town for conversation and good wine.