The Continental Club
3700 Main St, Houston, TX, 77002
The Continental Club Menu
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Address :
3700 Main St
Houston, TX, 77002 - Phone (713) 529-9899
- Website https://www.continentalclub.com/Houston.html
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 pm - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Very Loud
Music : Live
Good For Dancing : Yes
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Has TV : Yes
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Drew K.
How have I not reviewed The Continental Club yet? That being said, not much to say that hasn't been covered. It's one of Houston's great intimate live music venues. Lots of great singer songwriters, punk, garage, vintage, tribute, greaser, rockabilly etc. type bands have stood on that stage and entertained the masses. They have a great wide range of patrons which always leads to good people watching and rarely a time when you don't feel welcome. No frills, no nonsense bar. Plenty of proletariat beers on tap and a full bar for cocktail options. The back wall behind the bar is covered in glossies of bands that have come through in the past. Back room behind the stage has a couple small pool tables, an ancient shuffle board along the back wall and a guy selling really good berbecue from a couple slow cookers and a folding table. For the smokers, there's a great outside back patio with various seating arrangements and a huge lit up brick wall that spells ELVIS. Thursdays are the Beetles, an amazingly spot on Beatles Tribute band. I've seen them multiple times for birthdays and just cause nights and each show has been really impressive.Weekends charge a cover, BUT that's how they pay the bands, so help out some local artists and come inside! Come down and give a random band a listen and buy a couple of beers. I'm sure you'll have some fun. If not, there's always the rest of mid-Main to explore around you.
(4)Sabrina F.
Honestly,my review is probably moot since I wasn't able to get inside the venue. We were supposed to have access to a free show but the doormen weren't letting anyone in. One of the bouncers looked like a biker Santa) started yelling at a homeless women & was rude considering she was on the sidewalk which is public property. We had friends that arrived early & were texting us that the place was relatively empty. After waiting for 20 minutes,the line not moving an inch & the opening act playing, we decided to have drinks somewhere else (across the street). As we were sipping our boose, customers from the continental club (approximately 25) were coming to order drinks, either the staff wasn't producing or their drinks suck. Maybe I'll give this place another chance, maybe I won't.
(2)Tracy A.
I went for the 80s covers, free entry, and cheap happy hour drinks with my friends . . . FUN. Then we experienced this really odd Happy Hour conversion and it soured me on ever returning to this very dirty place. When happy hour was over, I expected the drink prices to change. I did not expect the drink sales to END. If my friends and I wanted to continue to drink AFTER happy hour, we needed to go outside and pay the mean door man a $10 cover for a hand stamp. Hand stamps grant you the privilege of purchasing post-happy-hour-drinks at the now escalated prices. And no, the bartender wouldn't fall for the old just one of us pay the cover and buy 4 drinks at a time routine either . . . . ugh.
(3)Yami H.
I had been here before for an 80's prom and I loved the music. Today was the culture map and i really enjoyed it
(4)Daniel L.
Bouncer: biker dude with facial hair that could crush you with his left hand only; gruff; stern; all about the business; possible inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Hagrid Cover: $10 for Saturday night, unless you are on the guest list like me *brushes shoulders off like Jay Z* Seriously I don't go out to places that charge cover much, like at all, but $10 seems a bit steep for entry into a place. That is nine items of food at a fast food drive-thru plus tax; that is a burrito at Chipotle; that is 1/6 of a PS.3 game. Call me old fashioned but I think you should be able to pay for things with a smile especially if you look like this *winks like Lucille Bluth* Bartender: polite; recites beer list if prompted; looks exasperated when you ask what the light beer options are; probably a Hufflepuff. Beer selection: Karbach options on draft; small selection of bottled things; not many acceptable light beer options; Weisse Versa came out flat; I would advise to likely stick with bottled things rather than draft; $5-7 per drink as a safe estimate; almost everyone was drinking Lonestar besides me and I felt out of place; I drank a PBR once unironically I swear guise, I'm not like other private school fratboys, I'm a cool private school fratboy. Main room: dimly lit; lots of chairs, though the uncomfortable wooden type without any paddings, and some are wobbly before you have even started drinking; many tables to place your beer on; decent sized standing only room in front of the chairs so you can admire the nice (and not so nice) backsides of the people standing in front of you; music is loud but not oppressively deafening like other small local music venues; cool stuff on the walls; independent music; this pleases me. Lots of adverts for Camel cigarettes but not the cool ones where Joe Camel was directly marketing to kids (me) back in the good old days. But now with Camel Crush these things sell themselves to tweens because it's like altoids but you get to look tuff, and everyone knows smoking makes you cooler - it's science. The back room: two pool tables; cool stuff on the wall; a second bar back here; an old timey soda machine which I would just assume was not plugged in and working; a sofa; a side exit door; and the restrooms. More Camel adverts. I s2g if you just quit smoking this would be the worst place for you to come besides the Briar Shoppe in Rice Village with all those delicious smells. The men's restroom: someone thoughtfully carved "fuck you" above the mirror and I felt personally offended because I had done nothing but walk in to use the restroom and then the restroom treats me like this. This is a rude restroom, very rude. It has a lot going for it. Since I didn't need to pay cover this time I am feeling charitable and rounding them up to four stars, even though my draft review was fixing to be three stars. It has character and cool music so "yay I'm a fan" is a better descriptor than "A-OK" because A-OK is so sassy like "yeah you tried, it's okay you failed because at least you tried" and that kind of thing only works on a five year old child and your goldfish, not on an actual adult.
(4)Dena D.
We were refused by old man Santa at the front door. No our costume was not good enough for him!!!! So we took our money elsewhere.
(1)Tonya B.
I've passed this place several times going to neighboring bars and restaurants. I could always hear the music playing, but never stopped to enjoy the music. It was a random Wednesday night when I peeked in, then decided to go in. The band and soloist were on fire! I have no idea why this place want super poached, but I enjoyed nonetheless. I will easily become a regular here.
(4)Brian W.
I really like the venue and atmosphere. It's too bad the band wasn't good. The beer was served a little warm on tap and bottled. The beer selection even included Shlitz. I wouldn't mind being charged a $10 cover for a good band. Hopefully it was just an off night this place shows promise.
(3)Tori U.
Let's just talk about Beatles night. It was so great! Free entry before 9pm on weekdays. So that's pretty appealing already. Plus the band was actually on the ball. They didn't do a whole lot of songs that I knew well, but for a cover band, it was hands down pretty cool. I went to order the drinks and tried Lonestar for the first time (for those of you with the jaws dropped- I didn't do college in the States) and it was like $3. I thought they didnt understand my order when I got two beers and it rang up like 6 bucks. There isn't a huge assortment of beer here but then again, you go for the atmosphere. The place is quite big and very suited to local bands, with a reasonable sized stage. It's not grungy but definitely geared towards a younger crowd. I loved the big outside terrace with lots of benches. It's lit up with fairy lights and just such a great way to go have a chat and a drink when you start having trouble hearing yourself think and those around you start yelling in your ear. Really good set up, nice waitresses, and a regular crowd who seem to know everyone. Feels a little like home going there. Will be back for a repeat Thursday night soon!
(5)Andy C.
Tonight, the bouncer of this club attacked me and my friend for no reason. He has a long beard, so if you see him be careful because he apparently enjoys throwing patrons onto the cement outside the club without any provocation whatsoever. We called the police and filed a report. The HPD report number is 090853714-H. I am very likely going to file a lawsuit against the owner of this establishment because they apparently are unable to control the behavior of their untrained unqualified bouncer.
(1)Jan G.
Whats not to like about a darkish, dingy dive bar with a red curtain behind the stage, two big bars, great sound and BBQ to boot? Whether you are hanging out on the deck between sets or standing in front the stage, this is a perfect venue to enjoy good music with good friends in Midtown, Houston.
(3)Stephanie H.
I was trying to remember if I had been to place before I started going with Darren. I know it now and love it. It's a one of a kind place in the middle of a big city. I commented to D the last time we went that "it's hard to believe we are sitting here on this patio in the middle of Houston." It has a way of taking you away from all the madness of one the largest cities in the US and you can see great music here to boot!
(4)Elmer L.
Typical failed attempt at a live music scene in Houston.
(1)Holly S.
Awesome venue for local, and not so local live music! I recently revisited after a long hiatus, and I'm not sure why I stayed away for so long??? Great bartenders, great music, great patio, room to dance and play pool...and I found street parking within a block!!! Winning!
(5)Saba E.
This place is A-Okay. I like that they support certain political causes and have a great stage. Their staff is super friendly too, unfortunately, their maximum limit count doesn't measure up to the amount of seating they have...sometimes when I go for Happy Hour, I'd like to sit...sorry, Continental, maybe next time I'll have a better time.
(3)Jennifer M.
Great instrumental sound but the Mic needs to be turnt up. Came to hear the Houston legend Little Joe Washington, only heard instruments
(4)Lara L.
I'd love to give you more stars but I am not going to because: -Why is your bouncer such a douchbag all the time? -Really only cash to get in? -Parking sucks -I do not like the setup of the place (it is inconvenient) -Too loud -It is hard too see the band playing if you are not right at the front -a total pain in the ass to get to the restroom when the band is playing -Crack heads outside The good: - The music -The metro train right next to it -The hippies and/or bohemians you can meet there. -The New Orleans style kind of weird and eccentric people are pretty cool. -$3 LoneStar Note: I do not dislike this place nor do I love it. I wouid only go back only if the band playing is worth all the hassle.
(3)Ana B.
I hate to be the one who gives this place a bad review. But my boyfriend and I just moved here to Houston from New Orleans, over there bars let 18-19 year olds into bar. It's cool over there. Well, we were so pumped to go to this place to listen to some live music and have a great date night. WELL, obviously they did not let me in. And it sucks!! I'm sure the bar is a cool place but I'm not used to the age thing over here. New Orleans is much much funner than Houston. Period.
(3)Robyn K.
Lil Joe Washington! This place was great, really had a good time. They have an outdoor patio area and bar if it gets too loud inside. Lil Joe Washington is a legend, if you are around this area on a Friday night you should stop and see his jam band. Plus, it's free to get in if your early!
(5)Gretchen P.
The Houston Continental Club is far better than that other one (the original) in that other city. No competition. Ha, take that Austin! I'm not going to compare the artists, each venue has equally good performances (in fact, I've watched an amazing Wanda Jackson show from the front door of the Austin venue). I'm strictly speaking of the venues. Houston wins, hands down! I like the layout of the HTX Continental. You walk into the main performance room with a long bar on the left, and the stage in front. As you snake your way past the dancing folks and stage, you enter the back room. There are a couple of long tables set up with Bar-b-que. It smells wonderful, but I'm partial to Taco's A Go Go next door. I usually get a couple of tacos a some point during the show. Sorry, back to the layout of Continental. This is the bar to order your drinks at; it usually has a shorter wait time. Beyond this room, to the back left, is the door to the patio. (See, in Austin smokers have to loiter outside, by the front door--boo.) The women's restrooms are pretty cool (not certain about the men's, never been that long of a line for the women's). The walls of the stalls have car-door/armrests equipped with rear-view mirrors and ashtrays (although they do encourage people to smoke outside now). In Austin, they just have the plain stalls. Dull. I know he may annoy a few people, but there's always the added possibility Little Joe Washington will stroll in and most likely get up onstage. Pretty cool. I hate that I tell you how great this Continental is by comparing it to the Austin venue. So, let me add, Austin's is pretty rockin'. I loved it, until I walked into and repeatedly returned to THIS Continental Club. Now Austin's just isn't the same...in a very bad dream kind of way. One note on parking, I always have problems in the mud lot (I drive a tiny car). I usually park on the other side of the light rails. I've only once had to drive around a while to find a space (there was a close to sold-out show that night).
(5)Farrah A.
Ahhh, The Continental Club. Houston is lucky to have this Austin import. I've been to the CC a few times for live shows, from James McMurtry to Houston's own LL Cooper. All great musicians/bands, all great shows. Two huge bars help keep the drinks a flowin', and if that Lone Star buzz gives you the munchies, finger lickin' barbecue is sold in the back room. (You can't sneak past them on the way to the restroom without digging in your pockets in search of a few bucks.) Weekly events, like Wicked Wednesdays (local bands with sexy burlesque shows between set changes, $5 cover, $1 8-11) keep the joint kickin' non-stop. I highly recommend CC for any one who's looking for good tunes, good people and good times ... just don't forget to bring your dancing shoes!
(5)Fujio W.
Big Comfy Couch Club! Okay, there's no couch, but if you can't find a spot to relax and enjoy the music/drinks/friends in this place, you're not going to find one anywhere else in Houston. If you go on a night that has a show with a cover charge, you'll run into Biker Bob at the door (not his real name, but a descriptive adjective - really, he's a helpful guy - I just hope he doesn't read Yelp). Just through the doors of this high ceiling, vintage building off Main Street is the main room & bar where the music happens. Cocktail tables and stools are located on the right with a long bar on the left. Some well placed auditorium seats can be primo spots to watch a band and be a little farther back from sound/crowd. Expect a wait ordering your drinks at the bar on crowded nights (I've seen a lot of people complain about this on Yelp - I've always gotten decent service, but then I know Squid). Go back past the stage and you'll run into a little oasis with a pool table and a shuffleboard. You can still enjoy the music with a decent drop in the decibel level. There's a bar there, but I've never seen it open. Continue even farther back and you'll find yourself in the cool yard that houses the Pachinko Hut, an Elvis Light sign and some nice picnic tables. Smokers and other interesting people hang out here to enjoy the great Houston weather. You're in the middle of Tafia, Tacos-A-Go-Go, Sig's Lagoon, Goodtime Charlie's and The Continental Club -- you've got to be in the right place. Each area of this club has its own personality that will fit your mood. And depending on the band or night, The Continental can handle all your personalities from slamming & swinging to chilling & sweating. My Tip: Check the website for a listing of show nights of which there are a couple days of the week that don't have a cover.
(4)Tammy N.
Went here on a Thursday night and they had a Beatles cover band playing! And they were really good! My friend was totally crushing on one guy from the band. They play for tips so please tip them!! This place has a really chill casual ambiance. They even had a guy selling hotdogs! The crowd was older but a good mix. My friends and I had a good time dancing. I'll be back!
(4)Darren T.
This is a must stop in for a Lonestar beer if you've ever thought about visiting Houston. It's not big, fancy, or especially clean, but it's a landmark here and it will take you back in time to the 1950's with the rockabilly feel.
(4)Rose K.
Yes, it's a Monday. Yes, I hate work. No, I don't want to go out. Not really. But... to the Continental Club to make a Monday a "ROCKABILLY MONDAY"? To hear Glover Gill rock the piano? To jive to the catchy tunes of the Octanes? Hell to the yes. Maybe I'm biased because I dance tango, but Glover's got something special. He composed the entire score for Linklater's Waking Life. At 8pm on Mondays he plays some of his intricate, unpredictable solo piano pieces. (If you ever get to see him on the accordion, you will be amazed) -- And you might even see some people dancing tango. Later on, the Octanes rock the house with music you can swing to and I promise your feet will be beggin you to get up and dance. If they don't, I'll give you your money back. OH wait, I won't have to, because it's FREE. Lots of dark corners, lots of great live (and local!) music, a bar, a self-serve water dispenser (we dancers love this), nice bartenders, and did I mention it's Free?
(4)Holli T.
Live bands and themed nights!
(4)Stephanie M.
Great fun club. Love the Beetles which is a band that does cover songs of get this, the Beatles. No cover charge from 7 to 10 on Thursday nights. Nice full bar, and great selection of local beers.
(4)Tanner L.
Gotta love Beatles night, if its free its for me! But seriously, go at least once, you will enjoy yourself
(5)May N.
This is one of my favorite live music venues. During the week they have regular acts performing weekly often with no cover and cheap food. Monday nights were piano tango with Glover Gill and music from the 30's-60's with cover band El Orbits, both popular with tango dancers and swing dancers, respectively. Thursday nights were a Beatles cover band, appropriately named, "Beetle." Friday nights are busiest with the 80's cover band Molly and the Ringwalds kicking off the evening followed by a headlining act. Get there early for a seat if you plan to sit. Otherwise, dance and volunteer for karaoke! Other state and regional acts perform at this venue as well, headlining Saturday nights. There are games in the back if you want to get away from the music. Bathrooms are relatively clean. Although the ceilings are high and there's good ventilation, I would still come home smelling like smoke so I'm happy with the smoking ban. Conveniently located near the rail and other cool restaurants/bars in midtown, there's also a gravelly parking lot and street parking nearby. Update 2/1/08: The Monday nights with Gil & El Orbits I think have moved to the Big Top down the street according to a flier. I showed up once back in Oct. or Nov. '07 and was confused by this placed being closed & locked up.
(5)Melissa B.
I have only been to the Continental Club on Thursdays to see the Beatles cover band, so I can't speak to what its like on other nights. The Beetles put on a really great show and know how to get the crowd going. By the end of their set, at least 3/4 of the crowd is dancing and singing a long at the top of their lungs. If you're lucky, they will sing Yellow Submarine in Spanish - a must hear! The drink prices are cheap and the service has always been good. Parking can be hard to find. I would recommend paying the $5 to park in the lot diagonally behind the venue. After the show, check out Double Trouble for some cocktails.
(5)Cameron Y.
This is one of the best live music venues in town. They have entertaining cover bands a few times a week. The Beetles cover band is good, but my favorite is the Disco Expressions.... They have great stage presence, play great disco hits, and always make me laugh. Continental Club really impresses with the lesser known bands usually consisting of local musicians. I have a few friends that play here from time to time and always enjoy seeing a show here. The atmosphere is great. With an interior filled with vintage memorabilia from the art deco era, it takes you back to another time. The crowd is of all different ages and types. From baby boomers to hippies to hipsters, everyone enjoys themselves here. The back patio is fabulous. There is a legendary ELVIS in lights, a tiki bar, as well as ample seating to visit with friends.
(5)Muriel H.
The club is OK, the bands are what makes it. HOWEVER, the two wanna be hells angels at the door suck!! They are just rude to everyone, why do they keep their jobs, it's not like they are in shape and could handle a fight!
(3)Sanket K.
What a great place for music. We went there on Sunday and it wasn't packed at all. There was about 15-20 people in there and only one couple dancing. There was a Funk band on stage and they were pretty good. The decor is pretty eclectic and there's a good amount seating. It was raining so we didn't get a chance to check out the patio or anything like that. I can't wait to go back on a busier night to see what kind of energy this place really has. I'll be back!
(3)Alfred B.
Cool spot. Kinda congested, but that may be the norm because I am not a big club person. They had a section of chairs that people covet and the rest is pretty much a SRO situation. The music is banging and crisp, so it was a good experience. I would come back if they had someone I liked. Pay for parking in a lot on side of the joint and pay at the door... so bring cash.
(4)Rick G.
This has truly became one of my favorite bars of 2013! Very cool environment with with great music! The drinks are very reasonable especially considering they are in mid-town. If your hungry they sometimes offer BBQ plates or you can go next door and pick up some tacos which they will allow you to take in.
(4)David N.
I've been in Houston for a long time but it wasn't until yelp that I found out about the Continental Club. All of my favorite yelpers just adore this joint, so I made it a bookmark and my goal to visit it one day. I was always checking out their calendar of artists to see an act that I'd actually want to see, since this type of live music is new to me, yes I'm a cookie cutter pop listener. I always made it a goal to come see the 80s cover band but they always play on a night that my gf has to work. So recently we needed something to do on an off night, wednesday night, and sure enough their was an artist by the name of umbrella man performing at 8 pm. Dinner reservations were at 7:30 and we weren't done until 9 pm but luckily they were still playing by the time we arrived. Granted it was a wednesday night so there was only about 8 people total in this place. On this night there was not a cover. The band was different to say the least but very enjoyable. I could see how this place could be awesome with the right band on stage. This is a very preliminary review and will get updated once I return on a weekend night. The parking is a bit sketchy but I found some street parking towards t'afia. Be on the look out for homeless people. Tacos A Go Go is next door which makes this place a plus!
(4)Joan G.
I really like the Continental Club. This is a great place to hang out. I can wait to see the next Molly and the Ringwalds show!!
(4)Mike S.
I always loved this place. It's the only club in town which is like an Austin club. It attracts a cool crowd, and the shows are great. I wish they'd hire the HOLLISTERS again! I saw Jack Ingram do an acoustic show in here, and I had many good times here. I only wish it was not so far across town from where I live. It's safe, clean, and got a good vive going on all the time. I don't get over there too often, but I've always had fun when I did go there. Give a shot!
(5)Alan S.
Meh... it's alright. There was no cover today, so that part was good. I went with some friends to hear a band at 9:00. We got there at 9:30 and nothing was going on. After a few minutes the "fun" begins. It seems like we were just in time for female mid-life bitching hour... or as The Continental Club calls it... "comedy night." It was bad... Finally sometime after 1030 the band came on. Wow, what a disapointment. Sure glad I didn't pay cover. But the shuffle board was the redeeming quality. So 3 stars rather than 2. Oh, and the formally free poor quality parking lot... it's still a crappy parking lot, but now they expect you to pay $2 to park there. Meanwhile the street less than 10 yards away is still free.
(3)David S.
Fantastic funky bar with really great music. Reasonable cover charge and some really class acts play here. A recent Saturday when I stopped by, it was Southern Culture On The Skids!! Wow!! They're a pretty big name!! Impressive, to say the least!! Natachees is just a couple of doors away and a Natachees meal receipt dated the same day gets you money off the cover when getting into the Continental Club. How cool is that?? Definitely stop by this place if you're in Midtown and looking for a place with a high "chill" factor!! Buy me a drink if you see me there ;-)
(4)Kimberly E.
This is the kind of place almost anyone can feel at home in. Its very laid-back and non-judgmental. A good place to go to on the weekends or on a late weekday night. I found out about this place from my brother who is a die-hard, dive bar fan. He hates trendy places and prefers those questionable, dark and rather sketchy places where things go down in the hidden corners and bathroom stalls. Places my mother would hate to know we sometimes go to. The last time I was there I'm pretty sure they has soft-core porn on the tv's over the bar. However, I wouldn't completely classify this place as a shady dive bar. Its unique and usually something you'd pas by. The most memorable quality this place has is the FOOD! Nevermind the bar, drinks you can get anywhere. My brother happens to be friends with the amazing chef there. He's an older gentleman with a beard who, forgive me, I don't remember his name but he seems to remember me every time I visit. If anything, make friends with this guy and he will cook you up something divine and world's better than any late night fast food. Because of this, its a great place to end the night after you've got a good buzz going and the hunger sets in. They have a pretty decent patio and inside they have some tucked away seated areas where I have seen some drunk couples going at it in plain sight. Perhaps it was the soft-core porn that got them rowdy. Can you blame them?!
(4)Neil K.
I want this place to be better, and to be fair its probably closer to 3.5 stars. I really enjoy the back patio and the $3 LoneStar is a fair deal. Went and saw Suzanna Choffel and David Garza last night and the microphones just werent set up well. I couldnt really understand one word she was singing. I think my main complaint is just a lack of shows I want to see there. Being an Austin staple I would think more Austin bands would head here to play, but that seems to rarely be the case. Do keep your eye out though, one time I got to see a Cadillac Voodoo Choir reunion show here. Extremely random, but it was great to finally see those guys!
(3)Jon H.
Good place for cheap drinks and live music. Plus, the outside area in the back is a big bonus. I'll be back.
(4)Miss B.
Groovy awesome place! They are proud of their drinks, but I blame midtown rent. This is one of the less douchy places in midtown to hang out. Great music too.
(5)Anna W.
The Continental Club's location had me pretty wary. It's by the tracks! The lightrail tracks, but still. Beware! However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that side street parking was easy to find, even on a Saturday night. Some nights there's cover, some nights there aren't, even on a Saturday (depends on which show you go to, though). Check out the website for the schedule. Walking in, you'll be in a medium-sized room, which I realize is really vague, hmm...well, the bar spans the left side, and the right half is filled with stools that have table attachments (kind of like a high chair, but the table is more...square hahaha). The stage is in the back (though, rest assured, not so far that you don't have to shout to make sure your companion can hear you), and there's a spot to dance right after the bar ends on the left. When I first came here, I saw the opening to the left of the stage, and thought it was a set up area. Then I smelled the barbecue wafting out, and realized it was a smaller area with barbecue, a smaller bar, shuffleboard, pool tables, and some wooden benches attached to the walls. If you keep going (this place is like a great partner--you keep getting surprises), there's a patio area. I like chill places, but not places that are *too* divey. That, plus the efficient bartenders and great rotating lineup of bands balances the fact that The Continental Club's by the tracks (I say this facetiously...sort of).
(4)Cara J.
This is more a review of the Monday night at Continental Club, which starts off at 7 pm with a great tango lesson with Indre (sp?) who is really sweet and maybe Lithuanian. Then 8-9ish there is a piano player who comes all the way from Austin to play live tango music. It's amazing! As for the location, I love the decor, kind of makes me think 50s club. I love the red everywhere, it is my favorite color and it makes the place look great. I've had one drink there and it was the worse attempt at a dark and stormy I've ever had, but the bartender had heart to try and make it with basically only the dark rum from the ingredient list. The only downside is that the bathroom, which has some funny 70s station wagon car parts, has graffiti that is supportive of skinheads. I am sure there are some good skinheads, but I think of crazy racist freaks and would prefer if the management painted over racist graffiti.
(5)Lilian O.
The Continental Club in Houston is where I go when I start missing the funkiness of Austin and the original location on SoCo. I love the randomness, laid-back atmosphere, and the live music that can be found here. The bartenders and patrons are usually pretty friendly so don't be surprised if someone you don't know strikes up a conversation with you. Depending on the day and the band, you can get in with no cover. Otherwise it's usually $5-$10. I've come here on multiple occasions and have always had a blast even on weeknights when the place isn't crowded. My friends and I like to make a beeline straight to the free shuffleboard in the back room that utilizes real sand. I've played on shuffleboards that don't have sand and it's just not the same. The most memorable acts I've seen here was on a Wednesday night with fire dancers in the back patio and a country band with burlesque dancers. Completely unexpected and totally awesome. As another reviewer has mentioned, check their online calendar to see their upcoming shows. If you're open to catching acts you've most likely never heard of and want to have a good time without the fuss of douchey people, this should be your go to place.
(5)Melissa H.
It's a great place to go and listen to live music. I remember not having to pay a cover price, which is great! When I went, it had a local band playing all the Beatles songs. They take requests so it seems to me they know their stuff. They also had a sell of $3 Lone Stars ... didn't get one personally but my friends loved it. It was packed with mostly people that just got off work since they were still in their working attire. Not much college kids around.
(4)Mackey M.
It's like walking through a time machine...from the outside: 1957. Inside: evocations of CBJB. The only real reference that you're not in New York City moshing your way through throngs of punks or loose women is the massive Texas flag that seems to have been there so long that its threads are now fused into the cracked paint walls. There is not much to notice about the inside of this place. The stage is obviously the forefront of the room, the bar to your left, and stragglers creeping in and out. It seems like most people are just regulars who don't mind paying a cover to get in no matter who is playing that night. There is a room in the back which seems to be somewhere in between a storage closet, co-ed bathroom, and pool hall. There is a shuffleboard table across the far wall and a passageway to the new patio (that I have yet to see). Anyways, the beauty of this place is the acts they bring in. This was the first place that had Dax Riggs play in Houston and they usually have a Beatles tribute band every week. I can't pass up the place without seeing who they have on the calendar for the month. The stage is raised enough for everybody to see and the acoustics are great. Parking is either on the street or in an abandoned parking lot, that still has a sign up saying you must pay but I have never had a problem skimping on. Whether it's just to stop in for a beer after eating Tacos A Go-Go or to see an underground act with the accompaniment of fellow music-goers, The Continental Club is sure to be dive bar on your short list of places to visit in Houston. Don't just pass by and wonder what that place is, experience it.
(5)Adam C.
I can't believe I have never been to this venue before. I went out with co-workers and I was able to enjoy this great atmosphere while listening to a very good Beatles cover band. I had a great time. (I'm pretty sure the music is partially responsible for my overall impression - I really did get an education that night.) First of all, I can't even remember when was the last time I paid 10 dollars for two glasses of red wine, so that's a huge plus. If you get there early, which I did, you can find free parking nearby and get a seat to watch the show, which is a rarety in downtown/Midtown. Out back they have a spacious courtyard area and a large movie projection area that displays old classics right next to the cabana bar. My co-worker and his girflriend couldn't decide if the place was more Austin than Houston. Frankly, I'm just happy to know that there's a place like this to go to. I had assumed there was no longer any reason for me to visit Midtown, but I guess not. Also, there's pool inside and cheap tacos. All in all, it's definately a place I'd go to to hang out with friends and newcomes to the city.
(5)Agustin S.
Continental Club still has great bartenders great shows and showcases great local musicians, but they have added a couple more patios out back. As you walk out onto the original patio, they have a built a covered deck to the right overlooking Winbern St. The Continental Club has also added the Pachinko Room to the left of the ELVIS sign. The Pachinko Room gives off a surfer bar vibe in the middle of Houston. It includes surf boards, and classic surf movies playing behind the bar. Check it out folks!
(5)R C.
Nothing can touch this place for live music in Houston. This is as real of an experience as you can get here with good people who just want to watch a band and have a drink. Never drama, never fighting, never bad...well there has been a band or two that sucked but you can't make everyone happy! The other awesome thing is you can park your car and hit two other bars and grab the best F'n taco in Houston next door! I am never disappointed and the door man thumbs rules! Also check out the Tikki bar in the back. Great for summer evenings with nothing to do or when the band is taking a break. Try to catch the Flame Trick Subs there some time when they are in town, great show with a cool rockabilly crowd! One of Houston's most relevant music spots, hands down!
(5)Nick H.
The first time I visited the Continental Club, it reminded me of old Fitzgerald's, the place I spent so many of my weekends and dollars as a teenager. It's great to have a place that features a lot of original, interesting Houston area bands AND has a lot of people around my age. Dive bars are great. Dance clubs are beautiful. But this place has soul.
(4)Michelle G.
I would give the Continental Club a 4.5 - it is definitely one of the best places in Houston to see live music. The Continental Club attracts great regional bands and is intimate enough that you can actually see the band and enjoy the music. The crowd is an interesting mix of people, and dress is casual. I have seen the Gourds here numerous times, Sun Volt 2X, James McMurtry several times. Always a great time! I have not seen the new outdoor deck area yet, but have heard it's a great addition. Very few negatives: no free parking nearby and no Coors Light!
(4)Chris G.
In Houston, for small-ish acts, this is the place to see bands. Highlights - good sound, usually space for dancing, eclectic acts, nearby parking is easy, and overall great scene. Oh yeah, the Tacos A Go-Go are a plus next door. Hatings - need more draft beer, there always seems to be a crowd of people that are there NOT to see the show and turn their backs to the stage halfway through a set. Didn't they pay the $10 cover?
(4)Alma V.
It's a shame I don't come here more often because it's got some of the best soul and blues music in town. Granted, I always seem to walk past it when I'm heading to The Mink or the taco place owned by The Continental Club, but I've managed to stop in a few times. The music is great, ready up for dancing and I've even seen Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears there a few times. Once you're done dancing up a storm, head into the back for some barbecue, tacos or whatever they are selling in the back that night. And if you want to enjoy the weather, walk over to the back patio and chill out with a few friends while enjoying some more artwork. Favorite piece: the ELVIS lit up sign.
(3)Robert J.
One of the top live music venue in the city. Enjoy the courtyard and Circus bar next door - find the secret back entrance. Only complaint is if the band is too popular you can't move inside the club. Grab a BBQ sandwich from the guy in the back - they are great. On the rail line if that works for you.
(4)Lisa C.
Pretty fun, live band and groovy music. Dance floor n interactive musicians, fun!!!!
(4)Vivianne V.
This is just a very unique and eclectic place. I agree with the reviews before. I make a point to bring every visitor to Texas (much less to Houston) to this place. It fits that genre of a roadhouse mixed with a favorite neighborhood bar. The music as well is very representative of the region, from the blues guitar to the cumbia band (and everything in between). Not to mention they serve some BBQ with some "soul", which go very nicely with Lone Star beer.... It is a different yet enjoyable time with each visit to the CC.
(5)Julie P.
Can't believe it took me so long to finally watch a show at this place. Very cool layout, nice and long. The doorguys are really sweet too. Plus they had BBQ for sale in the back which was kinda interesting. I'll have to come back soon to enjoy this venue again.
(5)Latasha G.
I've been here several times for Tango on Mondays and a Beatles Cover band and even on an off night when not much was going on. It's always fun and everyone is super friendly! In the back they have shuffleboard and pool, so there's something for everyone and when you get hungry you can go right next door for awesome tacos - win/win!!!
(5)Kristine N.
Already one of my favorite places. I checked this place out with a friend of mine last night, and had a blast. The music was great, people were pretty friendly, pretty good beer at the bar for a decent price. In general, got a good vibe from the place. I'll definitely be coming back.
(4)John R.
The Continental Club is still open. I love the place, it was one of the first places I visited when I first moved to the US. Great atmosphere.
(4)Mandy G.
So - I have to write a review to put it on my list. Shoot - what's not to love about this place??? [some covers get $$$] That's about it. Gosh, I love Continental Club. I'm at a loss for words. sorry.
(5)Ralf L.
A decent place if you are an Austin, Texas, refugee looking to hang out with friends and reminisce. I met friends right away and had fun catching up. My wife was looking for a more lively place (where people let loos a bit more and break a sweat dancing) ... she felt like it was boring and stuffy. The band was good and the music was loud in a good way. The drinks were good and it looked like there was BBQ being served as well.
(3)Andree W.
Love it. Even came here a few times before I moved to TX from NOLA. This is the only place Ive been to in Houston that reminds me of live music venues from home. Always have great bands.
(5)Ronnie D.
How could I be the first person to review the Continental Club? This is one of the coolest places in town. They book great rock and roll / blues / rockabilly / etc. The bartenders and owners kick ass, they have pool, shuffleboard, and Burger Time in the back. They also have a back patio where you can smoke, which will be a major plus when the smoking ban goes into effect next month. Either you get this club, or you don't. You can regularly catch Houston bands like the Flametrick Subs and The Flamin' Hellcats here, and Molly and the Ringwalds are a permanent and popular fixture for the free Friday night happy hour. Oh and they often have BBQ in the back from a great local catering company.
(5)David K.
Great venue for regional/local rockabilly. Just saw Dash Rip Rock & Mojo Nixon there on Saturday. Plenty of room for the large crowd, but you can get close to the stage if you want to. If you don't want to be near the stage, no big deal either because you don't end up in the next county for it! Live music sounds great there. Only drawback is that you have to walk from the large main room through a narrow doorway and then into a narrow hallway to get to the can. If there's a big crowd getting through there can be a pain. Haven't had a problem parking in either the $5 lot or on the street.
(4)Daniella M.
Love it enough said :o)
(5)Courtney R.
I absolutely love the Continental Club for what it is. It's retro, gets great bands, the drinks are always just right and they do hands-down have the coolest ladies room ever. This is definately the one bar in Houston where I truly feel at home at. But what stops me from being a regular is the $10 parking, plus $10-15 cover, on top of what your drinks will cost and limited seating. Especially when you have 3 couples there together, the women spend most of the night on the dance floor the guys are sitting but saving three vacant chairs and if you ask for one they tell you off. Funny story about that exact thing is I have seen that happen twice, the second time I saw that happen it was an older gentleman in his 60s-70s and the "three stooges" scrammed him off one of the chairs. Luckily I had someone give me their table and since I was by myself I offered the seat to the older gentleman. Who was he? Well, it was Wanda Jackson's husband! I sat there and had a lovely conversation with them and at the end of the night he gave me a CD on him! Take that as a lesson any of you who may be seat grubbing stooges, you never know who you might be denying....
(4)Victor J.
I really only like to go to this club if a band I like is playing here. I don't like the way the club is setup. When you walk in if its crowded everyone is blocking the bar watching the band play and it is a pain to get to the bar and get a drink. I went here last on 06/11/10 and the drinks were WEAK. I had about 7 maybe 8 whiskey and cokes and I felt 100% sober like i was drinking plain diet cokes all night. Stick to beers if you go here. For some reason I never feel very comfortable here. The bartenders are not all that friendly and the clientel seems kind of douche baggy. The sound is not the greatest either. For some reason this place does not feel authentic to me. It feels like some yuppies decided to spend a lot of money trying to make a 50's Texas Rockabilly vibe club but they tried too hard. Its too obvious or something. HUGE backyard patio with big ELVIS light up sign like KISS used to have on stage and an outdoor bar, picnic tables, Elvis movies shown on the wall, entrance to another bar lounge. All of this sounds really cool right? But for some reason it all seems fake and full of pretense to me. It does not feel "dangerous" if you know what I mean. Weird band schedule. I show up at after 10PM and the warmup crappy cover band is playing the main band does not hit the stage until 1 AM and by this time I am bored, sober and leaving. I did see the old 60's band Blue Cheer here and that was an awesome show my one great memory at this place. I would give this 2 1/2 stars if possible. A tendency to have too many lame cover bands. A lot of people in their 40's show up to this and get all excited hearing some crappy cover band play "Jessie's Girl" or some crap like they have not been out since the song was new. Hey I am 39 but I am not ready for nostalgia acts yet.
(2)Amy G.
Continental Club is fantastic. I always have a great time when I want to see a live show. I've never been dissappointed yet. I hadn't visited in a few months and since then they've added this very cool expanded patio with a "retro surfer shack vibe". Make sure to look for the awesome and legendary bartender JAMES BROWN. Yes, I had to check his driver's license because I didn't believe him. Also try the "Squid Shot" which is Squid the bartender's custom shot that tastes just like an apple martini but less apple pucker and more alcohol.
(5)Katie F.
Excellent live music venue - it's intimate without being too tiny, they book good acts, and the cover is reasonable. There's usually enough space to do a little dancing, and both times I've been there they were selling BBQ on the back patio. That's enough to warrant 5 stars right there. Also, the crowd is typically very laid back, so you can enjoy your evening without a round of pretentiousness to go with your beer!
(5)Marisa F.
I went to the Continental Club and saw The Suspects. They were awesome! The crowd was a good bunch of colorful people. Not a lot of space to dance, but I made room in a small area by the tables. The crowd cleared out when the band was over. Drinks are moderately priced, we paid $9.00 for two Bass. The bartender was a bit slow at ringing up our order but other then that we had a great time. The dress code is very causal, you can get in with tank top and flip flops. I will return there again very soon, hopefully to see another great band!
(4)F K.
I came here w/a friend to watch an 80s cover band. I think it was an 80s cover band. It was a cool little place and really central. However, the band was not that great and a lot of people there (at least that night) were quite a bit older than I was. Not my scene, but who knows in a few years... lol.
(3)Alex T.
Wayyyy better than Blue Label Lounge, which was where I was at earlier that Saturday evening. It reminds me of Boardner's in LA. Looks antique and as I walked through the door. Went here after we met up with friends at Blue Label Lounge. I was very glad we jumped ship. Got in for free and didn't have to wait in line. (I think I love that about Houston clubs) Danced with my friends and then mingled with all sorts of people in the club. Had some Asian creepers who would surprise us from behind, but it's nothing some GiRRRL power can't handle. Didn't buy any beverages, so can't rant (or praise) about the cost/selection. The restroom ceiling was high and much brighter than the rest of the club. THAT i like because i wasn't fumbling around for my belongings. The music was top 40s and they played some electronic. One of the better clubs I've been to while in Houston. Venue could be bigger for the crowd it brings.
(2)Ryan H.
One of my favorite places in Houston. Very eclectic and everyone always gets along with everyone.
(4)Monica S.
Great place on the weekends for awesome local music and bbq! On weekdays, there is no cover before 9 and it's usually ten bucks after that. The bartenders are really friendly... also, make sure to check out the green room to see some pretty famous signatures on the walls and the patio is great to catch some fresh air.
(5)sri n.
This is one fun place. I dont usually go to clubs, but this one was a great experience. We had a 80's night event here and it turned out to be awesome. We were all dressed up for the event and the live music was great!
(4)Toni J.
I like the dark atmosphere and dive bar feel, and I love some of the shows I've seen (Light Rock Express were awesome and it was so cool that when they sang "Takin It to the Streets," they took it to the streets). I also went to a wedding reception here (which, how cool is that?). I don't like how narrow it is, and how hard it can be to snag a place to sit. (These heels aren't made for walking, nor standing for that matter.)
(3)Whitney M.
go see beetle!
(5)LAWJISTIK -.
LOCAL bar. with live CW/rock/rockabilly/blues etc. music. they have a working "burgertime" arcade + a pool table. bbq man makes you a fat sandwich.
(5)