Admittedly, planning a first date can be exciting yet stressful, especially if you want to do something different. You can go the standard route of dinner, drinks, and a movie. But in this social media era, a creative ambiance with themed cocktails and a few pics in between may lead to a better cosmic connection. So, as you map out your options, start with Roswell’s Saloon, a unique Montrose bar with an ambient glow.

Photo: Ulisses Garcia

Roswell’s Saloon is a futuristic cowboy space saloon with an out-of-this-world vibe, a floating astronaut, and a casual Montrose crowd orbiting the space. The venue opened in the late spring in the space previously occupied by its 17th-century-inspired predecessor, Stone’s Throw.

Roswell’s artful renovation is quite a departure from Stone Throw’s “old-world charm.” Owned by local retail and bar entrepreneur Shawn Bermudez, Roswell’s takes the themed bar concept up a notch with bold neon colors, spaced-themed mixology, and an eclectic mix of Montrose revelers looking to have a good time.

Indoor Area of Roswell’s Saloon | Photo: Ulisses Garcia

Bringing a date to Roswell’s is sure to spark the right conversations. The two-level venue has an outdoor patio, a downstairs seating area, and a more intimate space upstairs. If you prefer to stargaze with a drink under the moon, then the patio will be your best bet.

Once inside, there are plush booths where you can sit side-by-side or across from each other as you take in Roswell’s far-out décor. If you’re really in a social mood, then you may want to snag a couple of seats at the bar. The bartenders are sure to recommend one of their signature specialty drinks, including the bubbly Fire in the Sky, the vibrant Orbit Ranch Water, or Lithium Crystal.

Fire in the Sky Cocktail | Photo: Ulisses Garcia

Now, if you’re looking for a cozier setting, then upstairs is where you should be. Sure, Roswell’s is a bar, so it’s bound to be loud everywhere. But their upstairs area has booths and tables where you can people watch from up top while you navigate your way through those “getting to know you” moments.

If you have a birthday coming up, then this may be another reason to check out Roswell’s. The quirky bar is hosting a monthly launch party for every zodiac sign. The bar also hosts full moon parties every time there’s a full moon. The next full moon party is scheduled for Sept. 29 with body painters, tarot card readers, and glow-in-the-dark tattoos.

Upstairs area of Roswell’s Saloon | Photo: Ulisses Garcia

So, if drinks on the rooftop or a spa date seem a bit too boring, then explore Roswell’s Saloon for a different vibe any day of the week.

1417 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77006 | Open daily from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.