Bandista at Four Seasons Hotel Houston Awarded 1 PIN by The Pinnacle Guide

Bandista, the acclaimed speakeasy hidden behind a bookcase inside Four Seasons Hotel Houston, has been honoured by The Pinnacle Guide, the global PIN recognition system for the world’s best cocktail bars. Bandista, one of just 46 bars from around the world recognized this round, was awarded 1 PIN, following a rigorous assessment of excellence both behind and in front of the bar. This award notes Bandista as an “Excellent” cocktail bar. Globally, only 192 cocktail bars have been recognized by The Pinnacle Guide.

Last month, Bandista was recognized among North America’s 50 Best Bars at #47 - and the top bar in Texas for the second year running.

The Pinnacle Guide describes Bandista as, “The service and concept were impeccably executed and the unique ambiance makes this a place I would absolutely return to and recommend to others.”

“Being awarded 1 PIN by The Pinnacle Guide is a great honour,” says Tom Segesta, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Houston. “Bandista is such a special place, and it’s just fantastic to see this global recognition for the team, their genuine hospitality, and all their deliciously creative work.”

The Pinnacle Guide’s pioneering recognition system was created with the mission to challenge the status quo and is the first to formally reward exemplary standards on both sides of the bar. Starting with a transparent self-nomination process, The Pinnacle Guide first evaluates bars across key criteria, including their drinks program, staff welfare and sustainability efforts. This is followed by multiple in-person anonymous reviews by a global network of industry enthusiasts and experts.

Opened in 2022, Bandista has established itself in the Houston community as the preeminent bar for an intimate, thoughtful, and fun cocktail experience. Led by Beverage Manager Johnathan Jones, the small but mighty bar team of Josh Alden, Sam Ruiz, and Zachary Churbock guides guests through their journey, which showcases craftsmanship, creativity, and Southern hospitality. Its unique setting and high-touch service has helped it become a place where cocktail geeks and aficionados mingle with world travellers and canoodling couples, while enjoying inventive takes on classic and modern cocktails, often with whimsical touches.

Bandista is strongly rooted within the international bar community, serving as a gathering point for some of the world’s most respected establishments. Through hosting and participating in guest shifts at leading global bars, Bandista engages in an ongoing exchange of ideas and expertise grounded in a shared commitment to creativity, craftsmanship, and excellence. This includes acclaimed bars such as Employees Only (New York City), Jewel of the South (New Orleans), Jigger & Pony (Singapore), Locale Firenze (Florence), and VIRTÙ (Tokyo), reinforcing Bandista’s place among the world’s leading cocktail destinations.   

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 pm to 12:00 midnight, Bandista requires reservations, during which guests enjoy 90-minute seatings at the eight-seat bar (cocktail laboratory) or in the cozy 12-seat lounge.

Guests choosing to make a night of it are invited to plan ahead and save with the Advance Purchase offer, which includes up to 25 percent off the Four Seasons Hotel Houston room rate when booking at least three days in advance. For more information, visit online, call 800 734 4114 or contact your travel professional (chain code FS).

About Bandista

Bandista is an intimate, modern-day speakeasy (literally hidden behind a bookcase within Four Seasons Hotel Houston), reminiscent of a 1920s lounge that dazzles with a decadent Latin vibe. Guided by expert drink makers, guests of the 20-seat bar and lounge enjoy inventive creations, colourful and celebratory in nature, and often with unexpected elements. Its eight bar seats provide a centre-stage show of the cocktail laboratory that pushes boundaries while still paying homage to the classics, while guests connect with other discreet guests. Vintage barware, whimsical accoutrements, and rare spirits from around the world complement the vibe. Inspired by the tequileros - the Prohibition-era smugglers who illegally transported tequila - Bandista is a cocktail journey and experience, rich in craftsmanship, creativity, and Southern hospitality. Bandista is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 pm to 12:00 midnight. Reservations are required and are very limited, though walk-ins will be accommodated based on availability.

For additional information, view the Bandista press kit and follow the bar on Instagram.