What to do around the convention center?

Hi

I’m currently in town for a conference at the George R Brown convention center. I was wondering what to do around here late afternoon / evening? (So around the convention center. We don’t want to take a 30min Uber every time)

Looking for any bars with good (local?) beer, any restaurant recommendations or other stuff. Maybe also a good shopping center nearby?

We took a walk around yesterday and the area here just looks dead at night. Most restaurants were closed or empty, no people around except some homeless. Really appreciate any tips you have.