I've heard a lot of mixed things about Pearl and my experience was unfortunately consistently negative. I came here with my husband and we could immediately tell that there was a general air of unfriendliness. I understand it's a lesbian bar, but that doesn't mean that queer man, trans men, and gender non-conforming people can't occupy the same space together. If you're lesbian check out for a while, but if you're anything else I probably wouldn't recommend
They have an indoor bar area that can be an event space as well, and they have an outdoor patio in the back for those who prefer a more quiet space.Come to support and hang out with the community. There’s some gays bars out there but few lesbian bars. It’s nice to have a supporting space for queer people!Reasonably priced drinks.
Enjoyed myself and the music. It's a younger crowd but as it's all woman, there weren't any fights or craziness happening. Everyone was enjoying themselves and being respectful of others. I needed a tampon and in a place full of women, someone just slipped it under the bathroom door. I didn't eat any food here but the drinks were good and reasonably priced. Friendly spot and fun vibes.
Horrible place. I was denied entry because of my gender. I'm a man and they told me I had to be a woman or be with a woman to get in. This place was so "inclusive" that they excluded me. If they can segregate based on your gender, I wouldn't be surprised if they discriminate against your race, religion, sexuality, etc.The civil rights act of 1964 that Americans fought so hard for is not respected by this place. Find somewhere else that doesn't discriminate based on how you were born.
Great events and a fun atmosphere. I will say I wish the music was better and some of the bartenders are rude. But it is one of the few safe spaces for lesbians still and reasonably priced.
OMG love love love. The men here are so sexy and great. Awesome bar and atmosphere. Will definitely keep coming back. The bartenders do a great job. The patrons are extremely friendly. Great place to go with co-workers and relax after a hard day at work. The BEST! So many cute guys.
Had the WORST experience here; and will never forget it. First off I was denied entry by their ‘bouncer’ if that, and was ACCUSED of using a fake ID to get in. I was with a friend (who insisted we come to that dump) and she was arguing on my behalf that it was real. The ‘owner’ then gets involved, looks me up and down asking the bouncer what was wrong/ and outright takes his side. I had an email on my phone from when I recently had my car registered & inspected that had the SAME DL NUMBER and she still ignored me and my friend and took the side of that bouncer. I had to use the restroom too! And they charged us EACH A $14 entry fee. Which I was later told was unjust cause apparently they don’t charge for entry.I never felt so UNWELCOMED and attacked my entire life, and what throws me off is the fact that this is supposed to be a safe space? Love and equality? Huh?
I've visited Pearl a couple of times since I've lived here in Houston and it was a decent experience. This past week, I decided to check out RnB Wednesdays at SidePeace. It was a light crowd but the vibe was cool. I stepped out and went next door and was immediately taken aback by the clear racial divide of the crowd. On the Side Peace side, that's where all the black women were and when I walked to the other side, it was 100% white women. Now I'm sure this isn't Pearl's doing (I hope) but it just felt weird. I didn't like how it looked or the feeling I got. I'm hoping this was just a strange anomaly this one night. I truly hope they don't operate the business like that all the time. Figure out a way to blend the crowd/groups. That left a bad impression on me. I may drop by one weekend night just out of curiosity.
As a queer woman, this is one of the only truly safe spaces I have in Houston. It’s one of the reasons I have been able to embrace myself for the first time!The vibes are always amazing especially because of their DJ’s and the staff is so kind. Drinks are very reasonably priced, a lot of them under $10. We are so lucky to have Pearl!
Pearl bar was cool but kind of dead even at 11pm. I really liked the decorations for the outdoor patio, and at 10pm, you can access the next door bar’s (Side Peace) outdoor patio which is a lot quieter with a lot of greenery. The bouncer was really nice 🙂
I didn't realize there was such a big queer community in Houston! We were visiting from out of town and had a great time. Good music, good entertainment,...
I came here with some friends on what started out as a quiet Friday night but quickly picked up by around 11 pm. Parking can be a challenge, but we were...
My friends were denied entrance for "appearing" intoxicated, when I know for a fact people have been let in who were far worse.Sad fact is that I also never really see POC in there being that it's one of few lesbian bars in Texas. Have been a couple of times and still not really sure what the hype is to this place is about.Bartenders are rude.Door people have a power trip every time I've visited.Will likely never visit again.Don't waste your time with this place.
Pearl is Houston's only lesbian bar and it's very loved by the community and for me it's my personal favorite out of the lesbian bars I've been to across the country! The atmosphere is always welcoming and diverse and chill. Every weekend there are different themes and events going with different music and special themed drinks. Also, it has a large patio so it's nice to have two different spaces/moods and check both of them out or stay in one depending on the vibe you're going for. Recently they also expanded to the bar next door called Side Peace so that offers even more! It also has an indoor and outdoor space so it's great to get 4 different vibes in one visit and pick your preferred one! Overall love this place!
Went here last night. Not sure why Pearl was closed. We went after like 2200 and their Google profile says open until 0200. Side Peace was open and trashy as hell. Separate review for them.Hoping to visit Pearl again and maybe it will be open and hopefully a better experience than their other bar next door. Also why on earth is parking so terrible and expensive??? Montrose bars are nicer and don’t charge for parking on Wednesday. Also they have asphalt. Hint hint. Not all of us want to get our nice cars dirty on gravel lots.
This is the third time I go and the bartender says I’m yelling at her ordering a drink? There is Loud music playing. Go to the owner and she is is just as delusional And throws me and my friends out and we didn’t do anything worse birthday experience ever we all didn’t realize what we did. I will never go back to this bar ever again
I don’t know why all of the negative comments of the check in / entrance point to this place! Haven’t you heard of June 12, 2016, the Pulse shooting that had happened. It was the single deadliest mass shooting in US history. I’m not saying any place is safe from violence but Pearl just tries to be one of the SAFEST places. It is a place of hope and community for LGBTQ+ people. They can provide a place to spend time with like-minded people, listen to music, and have a drink. I enjoyed my time there and will return , knowing my time spent there will be a safe place, no matter if I have to have security peep in my purse so that there’s no gun or knives. I love the fact they care for us like that.
Such a great spot! We were there on a Sunday and it was packed full of amazing humans, everyone dancing and enjoying their evening.Cheap drinks, good service, and a great space! Also loved the way they decorate. Would go back!
I thoroughly enjoyed this place. Great atmosphere, loved being here on a Saturday after 11 when it's busy. Drinks are good and the patio and outdoor area is...
If you want to hit up a LGBTQIA bar in Houston, stop by here. It's small but at least people are dancing! There is a wide variety of people that come here....
Antonio refused entry to an off duty certified peace officer which is a violation of Texas Law Texas Code of Criminal Procedure article 2.1305. Antonio was extremely rude, unprofessional and would interrupt anytime you try to speak. The 3 females in front of us didn’t get asked the weapons question, which is obvious discrimination based on sex. Do not waste your time or money at this place. Highly disappointed.I explained that most establishments want armed police officers, even off duty, because it is an extra layer of protection, and his exact words were “I don’t want anybody protecting this place.” …just wow. Hope you don’t want to go drink somewhere that your safety is not a priority.
As a gay man, I’ve never been to a Lesbian bar. First time—I’ve never felt so welcomed and so comfortable in an LGBTQ environment. I had fun I danced on the gorgeous host. This was one of the best nights in Houston to be quite honest. Can’t wait to go back.
Celebrated my birthday here and had a blast! Drinks were amazing, and I got a photo with Amber from amberscloset. Bathrooms are gender neutral and clean!Update: I'm back at Side Peace, next door, as a vendor this Pride Market Sunday. The process of becoming a vendor was SO easy! All I had to do was text a number from their Instagram, and show up at 2pm with a table and my products. They don't charge to have a spot! I love the community connections I'm making, tips I'm hearing and learning, as well as the atmosphere!Update: I'm back at Pearl and SidePeace celebrating another birthday. The give and take with the community, spreading love and joy has truly made this the Best Birthday EVER!!!
I was actual going to visit this place because I seen on a show I was watching recently. But I have changed my mind not due to the reviews but due the response on the reviews. The owner reviews are very unprofessional and just don’t seem like genuine or pure. I am really sad about this because I actually wanted to visit but I have definitely changed my mind.
Security was very professional and nice, they seemed they actually cared about the guests. Bar was well-manned and had really quick service and good prices. Even though I am not part of the intended clientiel crowd, I thoroughly enjoyed the vibe!
THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE. Pearl is my go to after hours, service is top tier and the vibe is great! music is turnt and versatile. The owner Julie is accomadating, such a beautiful spirit. I always feel welcomed, they GETS DOWN . Yaassss baby yaaaass.!
Hands down, the best bar in houston! The staff is extremely sweet, drinks are amazing, and you can definitely tell the owner cares about the community and her customers❤️ Pearl is a safe space for my friends and I, who come from all walks of life. 10/10 recommend 👌
a friend of mine and her little sister was racially profiled, then jumped by the employees and owner of this bar. then they were illegally banned. You would think minorities could feel safe in a gay bar and have a good time but apparently not. i would avoid here at all cost.UPDATE: this is not a harassing review this is an honest review of your establishment and my experience here. it’s crazy that i leave a honest review and get threatened. i’m glad you have video evidence or whatever you saying because it’ll show that my friends sister was jumped. so your saying because according to you, allegedly , she “lunged” at someone… it’s okay to JUMP her???? multiple of YOUR EMPLOYEES assaulting a 21 year old 90 pound FEMALE is okay with you? just so you know everything your replying back is also being documented and reported. *also* if you go down your reviews i am not the first and bet on anything that will not be your last review about being racially profiled here at this establishment.
One of these comments stood out to me I was their that night and witnessed the owner and her workers jump one of their customers as they are walking out and accusing her of having a weapon when it was obvious she did not have. It was just shocking seeing an establishment allow there works and owner to act in such low manner. For this reason I don’t recommend and would rate lower if possible, haven’t been back since. 👎🏽
This WOMAN WHO IS ACCUSING SOMEONE OF HAVING A GUN AND RUNNING THIS ESTABLISHMENT IS UNPROFESSIONAL AND PUTTING HER HANDS ON WOMEN OF COLOR. She’s disgusting and super vile. If she has time to reply to these comments that just says a lot. This is a HONEST REVIEW
There's a cover and they only take Venmo or Cash like a drug dealer. It's 2024, we moved on from cash. Cover = LESS MONEY WE SPEND ON ALCOHOL. Go to Bagby, there's like 6 bars with free entry and better crowds. There's no reason to pay cover at Pearl. Kinda bummed out the girls but we move on!
Thank you Pearl Bar for showing a couple of Okie girls a good time! Such a great space and vibe, if a *little* challenging to get in 😘. Julie, keep up the good work!
Celebrated my birthday here and had a blast! Drinks were amazing, and I got a photo with Amber from amberscloset. Bathrooms are gender neutral and clean!Update: I'm back at Side Peace, next door, as a vendor this Pride Market Sunday. The process of becoming a vendor was SO easy! All I had to do was text a number from their Instagram, and show up at 2pm with a table and my products. They don't charge to have a spot! I love the community connections I'm making, tips I'm hearing and learning, as well as the atmosphere!
Very cool atmosphere, lots of places to take a selfie - loved the outside setup, drink menu had a Halloween theme, met some cool people and overall a good Lez bar. The music was on point too. Was free to get in and drinks were like $7.50 each. Parking was $25.
The atmosphere is great and there's a good amount of drink specials. Music is pretty mid though with little variety (even with guest DJs) so go somewhere else for dancing.
Good vibes, drinks are pretty good. Wish they had more fans cause it gets super hot in there. I like the outdoor deck and decor, it’s nice when the weather is.
Someone smashed my window and took my bag. They went through the glove compartment as well. My car was parked on the street across from the apartment complex. It’s a fun bar just be safe out there
This bar is not a safe space for black queers and its very intentional yet they proudly call themselves allies. I performed here as a black performer for almost two years and I was treated horrendously especially towards the end when I brought up serious issues and was met with nothing but anti blackness and hate if you're a black lesbian steer clear. Julie and Ian harassed me and my partner for weeks they are not the angels everyone claims they are.
It’s rare and special for AFAB and trans people to have such an amazing place to call home, and Pearl is exactly that. Thank you, Pearl and Julie, for being there for every part of the community and creating such a fun and beautiful place for us!
I love this bar! Happy Hour prices are phenomenal, drinks are great, security is very vigilant, and the vibes are immaculate.Not to mention the ENTERTAINMENT!!!!!Come out to Pearl if you ever want to feel safe and welcome and have a great time!!!
I do love coming here it has good vibes and is chill. I really wish hetero couples were not allowed to walk in because I am tired of people looking for a unicorn, and this goes for any queer bar.
This bar is not a safe space for black queers and its very intentional yet they proudly call themselves allies. I performed here as a black performers for almost two years and I was treated horrendously especially towards the end when I brought up serious issues and was met with nothing but anti blackness and hate if you're a black lesbian steer clear. Julie and Ian harassed me and my partner for weeks they are not the angels everyone claims they are.
The owner of the bar Julie Mabry is the best human I've met in a long while. Houston's only lesbian bar , female ran and operated, a safe haven for all peoples. highly recommend the bar Wednesday is a great night to go if you've never been to a drag show. Tuesday night they have drag karaoke, the weekend dress up and get down!!!
I was hanging out by the bar and enjoying my time peacefully. The owner came out of nowhere visibly drunk saying “I own the place”. Didn’t mind her to much until she bumped into me and accused me of pushing her. I was kicked out along with another group of Hispanics. Stop being arrogant it’s going to lose you business.
My wife and I were visiting from another state and decided to go to the local bar Pearl. Upon arriving I noticed they had security which I felt safe knowing they were checking purses and scanning for metal objects. We ordered 2 margaritas came out 13.50. 20 min later we ordered 2 more which the total was 16.00. NO BIGGIE! Not only the price increased I dont think they added any liquor. Next I ordered a Corona and a coke 12.00. I paid and exited out this place. Julie please train your bartenders.
I used to love coming here weekly and now it’s once every few months. The bartenders are super sketchy. I had multiple tabs under my name and was giving multiple charges and they all seemed to have ridiculous tips added to them. Second time this has happened to me at this location. Probably won’t ever be returning or if so I’d advise people to use cash.
I usually have a good time when I’m here, however last night I was physically assaulted by this bodyguard who’s photo is below. Last night around 2a when the club was closing, I was asked by a girl who works there to finish my drink as it was time to start heading out. I told her that my friend just walked into the restroom and that the drink (which was a big shot) was for us, but will be finished before we walk out. The girl said no, and insisted I need to finish the drink right now. I said the same thing, thinking maybe she didn’t hear me because of how loud & packed the club was. She said OK, and walked away, thinking she was going to tell others the same thing. Instead, I guess she told the bodyguard who came out of nowhere with no verbal warning, but instead physically put his hands on me so aggressively that my hand still hurts. He squeezed the cup so hard out of my hand that the cup squashed and the shot spilled all over me (so now I’ve also wasted money). He proceeded to chest bump me, telling me to get out of the club because I didn’t listen to her. I was asking him why he approached me by physical force instead of approaching me verbally? I was also telling him to stop chest bumping me out the club, which is why I took photos.I have would have told him the same thing I told her, so I don’t understand why I’m being physically forced out the club. It was so packed still, that he was pushing me into people. So why couldn’t I wait for my friend so that we could take the drink together??? I was not hostile, and I was not aggressive, so I do not feel his physical force was deserved or acceptable. I asked him to speak to management once out the club, which ofc he did not grant my wishes. So I’m hoping by writing this review my complaint will be taken more seriously. Thank you
Was looking for bars to enjoy with my cousins as I was visiting from London. Someone on TikTok recommended pearl bar but honestly I wish we didn’t go. They made us feel unwelcome and asked us to leave because my cousins was dancing and having fun. They apologised to her the next day but honestly I think this should be a learning lesson. People will take shots and dance (however they want, even if it’s with a girl that one of the bartenders like). ALSO don’t serve drinks if you want a boring bar. None of us were drunk or causing a scene. We left and I will never return.
A fun place with a friendly staff! Good seating on the inside, great seating on the outside (and plenty of it). I can't wait to spend time out there in the summer when it's a bit warmer.Seating is comfortable for bigger butts, but the couches are low, so depending on mobility, you may need a hand up.This was one of the most accessible places I've visited in Houston so far. Ramps, spacious bathrooms, and plenty of room for wheelchairs.
This is absolutely my favorite bar in Houston! The bartenders are amazing, I love the djs and the music. The door guys, especially Antonio, make you feel so safe. The people that work here are such amazing people. I’ve brought so many friends here and they always leave saying how much fun they had. They also have a cute patio in the back that is a great place to be at to enjoy nice weather.
This is an amazing place to go for anyone in the community! It always feels safe and you can expect to have the good time. There’s lots of events like drag shows and art markets, all with amazing people.This venue is very disability friendly and the owner helped me get to the bathroom quickly when I need to. There’s ramps and everyone can get around safely. Pearl is a Houston treasure.
I have lived in a lot of states and been to a lot of bars and as a queer and trans person, have never felt the safety and intentional love that Julie (bar owner) creates in this space. I am so thankful to the work she pours into our community 24/7, it's truly a saving grace. I'm emotional just talking about it. If you're LGBTQ+ and trying to find your people, to find a space you can be yourself, come here and bring your friends. I like coming on Sundays because it's a bit less loud, for mimosas with my wife and our dogs on the patio. Also, the staff is phenomenal and silly goofy but good at their jobs, the door guy/bouncer is amazing too.
Pearl bar used to be where lesbians were safe and welcome now Aton of straight men work there and have other sis straight men walking in tryna pick up woman...
Met my wife there. Reasonably priced drinks, great time, and Julie's steaks are immaculate. Also the only bar in town I feel safe at being a trans woman, I encourage my sisters to check it out.
I like how this place is decorated, nice atmosphere with a great patio. I’ve only been here twice (invited by girl friends) but both times I was deliberately ignored and skipped over for a while at the bar. I felt the reason might be because I’m a man. I didn’t like that, but I get it.
A Fun, eccentric, and lively bar. Lots of nightly activities and specials. Enjoyable for LGBTQ+ and allies alike. Plenty of loud action or quiet photo-op spots for an intimate chat.
I moved here in January 2020 from California and didn’t know anyone. Pearl has become my oasis. I am always guaranteed laughter, dancing & amazing 🤩 entertainment. I even come by in the comfortable part of the evening to read and enjoy the outdoor open paradise theme patio. It is hard being away from my Peeps, but I am never forlorn. Pearl Bar makes me feel close to home, Thank you 🙏 Pearl Bar Staff and Management.
I loved this bar! I had such a fun time last Sunday. I came during Happy Hour. Everyone was so kind and welcoming, the music was diverse and pretty good, the DJ does a TERRIFIC JOB!! I loved the drinks. The patio area is huge and spacious, which I admire. Very good food too. I enjoyed my time and will be coming back. 🙂
Love Pearl Bar Drinks are good and it gets really packed during busy hours so perfect for dancing! The bouncer is cool and doesn't let creeps in, so...
Let me start by saying this place is the real deal.We started at Axelrad for drinks, and one of our Houstonite friends recommended me move on to the Pearl....
Everyone understands what kind of bar it is. But when your trying to help your partner and they accuse you of lying because your not a female seems odd....
Women owned bar (frequented by the LBQTB+ community & allies) with the most adorable patio + badass sayings (don’t forget the patio)!! Best dance tunes, seriously affordable mixed drinks 🍹 & can’t help but notice the women bartenders are all wearing sweatshirts (way to be you!) which is absolutely phenomenal to see!! About time!!
Great inclusive, lgtbq friendly bar. This is a lesbian bar and they have dancing at night. There was a $5 cover when we came, but the vibe more than justified this price. Great music, cool patio and amazing drinks!
My girl and I came to Houston from Atlanta to celebrate my girlfriend birthday. We decided to party at pearl bar and I'm so happy we did. There was no cover. $15 parking in a close well lit parking lot. We loved everything about this bar. Especially the dj she was awesome. I've never seen a dj read the crowd so well. She played music for everyone and I absolutely loved it. I met so really cool people. This is definitely a go to spot in Houston.
Went there Halloween weekend, decent priced drinks but the vibe was off. Everyone was in a corner being shy and no one wanted to dance. A very over hyped place, the DJ played mostly songs to vibe to- not to dance to.(MAKE SURE TO CHECK THE VIBE OF PLACES BEFORE PAYING A $15-18 PARKING FEE 😭😒)
The vibes here are so good! Pearl is such a safe space where queer people can just be themselves. Drinks aren't super strong but they're tasty as hell! I...
Pearl is a hidden gem in Houston. The bartenders are friendly and unpretentious, and the inside is loaded with vintage couches and cool art to look at. The...
Julie is running a great business, legit one of the last remaining lesbian bars! We were there recently after a very long time of not going anywhere and...
Visiting from Dallas. I enjoyed the sounds of DJ Von Kiss. Great atmosphere with reasonably priced drinks. It was a mixed crowd of couples and singles. If...
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