7. BLUE AT BRENNER'S Until you've had the Pear Martini surrounded by the miles and miles of lush green landscape at Blue, you really haven't had a proper martini. If pears aren't your bag, try the Fresh Berry Martini or ask your bartender to whip you up something a little special. Don't be intimidated by the idea of a hefty price tag, either -- stop by during happy hour, when martinis are available for the rock-bottom price of $5.
1 Birdsall, 713-868-4444, brennerssteakhouse.com
6. RESERVE 101 Reserve 101 may have a hefty whiskey list -- as in more than 280 types -- but don't get it twisted. They know how to make a martini; after all, it's Reserve 101 Whiskey and Martini Bar? Not only do their martini menu whet your whistle, you can do so during Reserve's four-hour happy hour on the weekdays, when signature cocktails are half price. Try a Hemingway.
1201 Caroline, 713-655-7101, reserve101.com
5. FEDORA LOUNGE A bar with the name Fedora should know a thing or two about a good martini, and Fedora Lounge in West U doesn't disappoint. The mood is always chill, thanks in part to the mature crowd and the live jazz most nights, and you can always expect your Lemon Drop to be created with the utmost care. Martini-bar perfection.
2726 Bissonnet, 832-581-3232, facebook.com/thefedoralounge
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