A new goth tropical bar called Endless Bummer recently opened in the heart of Montrose and is described by creators as "somewhere between death and vacation."
The overview
Two doors down from restaurant Betelgeuse Betelgeuse, stands a tall, black door with a silver doorbell and camera attached. There is no sign marking the door, but if the doorbell is rung during the right hours, a hostess from Endless Bummer will usher customers in.
Inside, guests will find mixed drinks inspired by classic vacation cocktails, served in the heavily decorated, dimly lit 700-square-foot bar, known for its immersive experience with shifting lights and hidden interactive elements, such as fortune-teller machines.
Ten artists created the space, including Betelgeuse Betelgeuse owner Chris Cusack and Meow Wolf's lead artist Brian Dibala.
The context
The space used to be a small room sometimes used for karaoke by the restaurant next door until Cusack and his staff started having ideas about a tiki-themed bar, said Endless Bummer bartender Julian Bonnin.
“We’re looking at it as a way of escapism, where you come in here and don’t really think about anything else,” Bonnin said.
Bonnin helped brainstorm ideas for the space and created unique cocktails for the menu. He said, “It’s a 50/50 split between some ideas that we’ve had and created ourselves and classic combos.”
The specifics
A list of cocktails served can be found in a small, black book that reads like a scrapbook. Bonnin recommends customers try “This Sunset Should be Ilegal” and “Pistachio Mai Tai.”
Drinks can also be made with THC spirit or non-alcoholic spirits.
No food is served, but the bar’s website said neighboring restaurant Betelgeuse Betelgeuse serves pizza until 2 a.m. daily.
Endless Bummer is open Wednesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to midnight. Reservations aren't required, but are encouraged by the bar for a guaranteed spot.
- Opened July 2
- 4500 Montrose Blvd., Houston
- www.endlessbummertiki.com
