Cafe Europe

Nestled in a Westheimer strip center apparently dedicated to the cuisine of almost every country in the world, Cafe Europe mixes old-world lounging with new-school bar culture. A coffeehouse with a full bar and hookah pipes, it is neither as wooly as a java joint nor as grizzled as a full-on liquor spot. The drink menu mainly includes wine, coffee drinks (with a kick of whatever distilled spirit you desire) and a host of beers. We tried the Black Russian, which is really just vodka and black coffee, and chased it with a sedate cup of proper hot tea - saucer and all. Cafe Europe is a surefire bet for a date all by itself, or as a nightcap after a meal at one of its many Indian and Mediterranean restaurant neighbors.