Slay!

A Guide to Houston’s Best Drag Brunches

Texas legislation might’ve tried to put a stop to drag, but these bars and restaurants are fighting back with Pride.

By Daniel Renfrow and Sofia Gonzalez June 18, 2024

Chapman and Kirby offers monthly Saturday drag brunches with flights of mimosas and more.

THERE ARE FEW THINGS in life more sacred than brunch. For many, it’s the highlight of their entire week—even if they can’t remember all of it after one too many mimosas. And drag brunch? Well, that’s just the cherry on top, henny. Whether you’re in the mood for a buffet-style extravaganza at Boheme or a traditional show at Rich’s, there’s something in this guide for every kind of drag bruncher.

Although more Houston-area bars used to offer top-tier drag brunches lively enough to jog even the haziest of memories, some have stopped due to Texas’s Senate Bill 12, which regulates what the legislature calls “sexually oriented performances” at a commercial enterprise, on public property, or in the presence of someone younger than 18 years old. But drag is here to stay, and we’re here to spill the tea on the places in Houston that have decided the show must go on.


The Drag Show Brunch at Boheme

montrose

Montrose mainstay Boheme has long been a favorite drinking spot for Houston’s LGBTQ+ community, and it’s even more so now due to its weekly Drag Show Brunch, which throws down every Sunday from 11:30am to 2:30pm, with a second show from 2:30 to 4:30pm. Tickets for the shows, which feature some of the city’s most talented and lively drag performers, cost $39 per person. But don’t fret: food is included. Attending drag-show connoisseurs get to pick from Boheme’s expansive brunch buffet, which includes treats like Filipino biscuits and gravy, Argentinian empanadas, and french toast. For an extra $30, you can also get yourself a carafe of mimosas.

Every third Saturday, head on over to Chapman and Kirby for a chance to see some of Houston's most talented drag performers.

Monthly Saturday Drag Brunch at Chapman & Kirby

east downtown

Every third Saturday of the month Chapman & Kirby hosts a themed drag brunch that showcases some of Houston’s most talented drag performers. Reservations are $35 per person and includes the show and access to the brunch buffet. Food options include Fruity Pebble french toast, fried chicken, waffles, bacon, chicken sausage, egg frittata, and fresh fruit. Wash it down with a cocktail or even a mimosa flight, or if you’re ready to splurge, check out the available bottle service. Doors typically open at 11:30am, with the show beginning at 12:30pm.

Sunday Drag Brunch at Mahoney's Texish Bar & Restaurant

the woodlands

Although this is a bit far for the inner loop brunch lovers, it’s always nice to see our suburban communities doing what they can to support Pride. Mahoney’s Texish Bar & Restaurant hosts a drag show once a quarter. With $20 bottomless mimosas and access to the restaurant’s full brunch menu, it’s definitely a spot you’ll want to have on your radar. There’s a $10 cover charge and you have to reserve your spot online, because it fills up fast.

Blackberri is one of Houston's most famous drag queens.

Sunday Service Drag Brunch at Rich's

midtown

Brunch lovers, make your way down to Rich’s every Sunday for a day of fun hosted by American drag performer Blackberri. With three different shows at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm, you’ll find yourself treated to a lively drag performance put on by a rotating weekly cast. Before you head over, remember to secure your spot at Rich’s with a reservation on OpenTable. While you’re there, enjoy the food offerings of executive chef Diego Chiarello, who adds new menu items weekly. And if you decide you want to keep the party going, be sure to ask about the limo service shuttle to get you to your Montrose favorites safely.

Monthly Sunday Drag Brunch at Winnie's 

midtown

On the last Sunday every month, Winnie’s hosts two drag brunches with Queen Persephone, who usually brings on a special guest or two for added entertainment. Shows are at noon and 2pm. It’s free for all to enter, and you’ll be treated to a rotating menu of drinks that are unique to each month’s show. You can also choose from Winnie’s regular food offerings to go along with whatever delicious drink you decide on.

Rosemary Akpan contributed to this guide.

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