When it comes to the vibrant and diverse bar scene, one can’t help but be enamored by Dallas’ rich tapestry of drinking establishments. Dallas, a city known for its warm Texan hospitality, offers a plethora of bars, each with its unique charm and character, making it a haven for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable night out. From historic speakeasies and rooftop lounges with stunning skyline views to neighborhood dives and craft cocktail havens, the Dallas bar scene has something for every taste and preference. Whether you’re in search of a swanky cocktail spot to unwind in style or a no-frills, down-home bar to enjoy some Texas charm, this article will be your guide to discovering the bars that beckon with their distinctive ambiance, delicious libations, and a hearty dose of Texan spirit.
Swizzle
1802 Greenville Ave #110, Dallas, TX 75206
(469) 862-3102
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Swizzle is a vibrant tiki bar in Lower Greenville, with a classic bamboo-walled lounge filled with mismatched Victorian and beach furniture, Samoan and Island art, and neon lighting. In true tiki fashion, the menu is full of tropical cocktails and pupu platters, along with Hawaiian specialties like Loco Moco and Spam sliders. I had a plate of pork lumpia with a delightfully flavorful Mai Tai.
Adair’s Saloon
2624 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 939-9900
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Located in the hipster paradise district of Deep Ellum, Adair’s Saloon is a rowdy, dingy dive bar with a full lineup of live music, domestic beers, and American bar fare. I went for their happy hour to delight in a can of Lone Star and a grilled cheese sandwich.
Apothecary
1922 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(972) 850-9192
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Apothecary is a swanky cocktail lounge in the heart of Belmont, known for creating the most daring concoctions in town. The vibe is upscale, mysterious, and a must-visit for adventurous palates. The cocktail list has options that will numb your tongue and surreal garnishes like an octopus tentacle! There is also a high-end menu of small plates, fine wines, and craft beers.
Bowen House
2614 Boll St, Dallas, TX 75204
(214) 484-1385
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Bowen House is a bar and kitchen inside a historical landmark home in North Dallas. It’s named for the original owner Ahab Bowen who built the prairie-style clapboard home in the 1880s. Today, Bowen House is beautifully-preserved, offering a cocktail and food menu as elegant as its setting. The Sotol and Spice cocktail was a tropical party in my mouth!
Midnight Rambler
1530 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 261-4601
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Midnight Rambler is a gorgeous, vintage-chic cocktail bar in the Main Street District of Downtown. The stunning interior features arched wood ceilings, checkered tile floors, and vintage furniture for an old Hollywood feel. The stunning cocktail program is under the direction of award-winning bartender Gabe Sanchez. I had a classic vodka martini that was as smooth as silk.
Tiny Victories
604 N Tyler St, Dallas, TX 75208
(972) 685-7055
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Tiny Victories has built a reputation as one of the bars that visited mostly in Dallas. It’s modern, boho-chic, and only a few blocks from Kidd Springs Park. The high-ceilinged space has walls lined with shelves displaying artfully placed liquor bottles and large plants. Famed mixologist Ryan Payne has curated a well-rounded menu of classic cocktails, novel creations, beer, seltzers, and wine. I particularly loved the Smokin’ Herb gin!
Atlas Bishop Arts
408 N Bishop Ave #101, Dallas, TX 75208
(214) 983-8510
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Another ritzy cocktail lounge, Atlas Bishop Arts boasts a gorgeous European-style space with arched tiled ceilings, marble tables, and oil paintings lining the wooden walls. The cocktail and food program are globally inspired, offering flavors and fresh ingredients from Europe, South America, and Asia. I started my night in Asia with a bowl of Pho, then traveled to Peru for a tangy Pisco Sour!
Las Almas Rotas
3615 Parry Ave, Dallas, TX 75226
(972) 685-5666
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Overlooking the Musical Hall at Fair Park, Las Almas Rotas is a Mexican-themed mezcal and tequila bar. The menu features delicious (trust me!) takes on Mexican street food, with tortas, quesadillas, burritos, and tacos. I enjoyed fresh guacamole with my flight of five different mezcals.
Lee Harvey’s
1807 Gould St, Dallas, TX 75215
(214) 428-1555
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Despite its infamous name, Lee Harvey’s is a family-friendly restaurant, bar, and live music venue with a massive outdoor patio in Cedars neighborhood. It boasts a full lunch and dinner menu during the day, transforming into an adult-only bar for late-night drinks. Lee Harvey’s has been a favorite for decades, and I understand why thanks to their gorgeous patio, full cocktail menu, beer list, and delicious Texas-style bar fare.
Bodega Wine Bar
6434 E Mockingbird Ln # 109, Dallas, TX 75214
(214) 704-4538
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Bodega Wine Bar is a charming, rustic-chic wine bar and bottle shop in Lakewood, replete with stone walls and fireplace, a wooden bar, and wine racks. There is a house sommelier to guide you to the perfect wine. It specializes in fine French wines and other boutique selections. I recommend trying a wine flight to sample a few at a time.
Alexandre’s
4026 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 559-0720
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Teetering between Oak Lawn and Turtle Creek, Alexandre’s is a cute, intimate LGBTQ bar and live music venue. They serve colorful classic and seasonal cocktails alongside local live music. The expertly crafted cocktails divide into periods, with the simple, new-era cocktail Southside being a standout for me.
The Honor Bar
26 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205
(214) 780-0956
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The Honor Bar is an elegant, Texas-chic traditional American restaurant and bar with a dress code and fine dining service. Its cocktail program has a well-rounded list of classics, plus fine wine by the glass and a small selection of craft beers. I think it’s a great spot for business lunches or date nights.
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House
1154 Peavy Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
(214) 324-3335
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Located in a massive, multi-room dining and lounge space with covered patios in Lochwood, Goodfriend Beer Garden and Burger House is a laid-back pub and burger joint. They offer a 20-beer tap list, not to mention even more bottles and cans, wine, and cocktails. Whatever beer you choose, I highly suggest pairing it with one of their award-winning burgers!
Cosmo’s
1212 Skillman St, Dallas, TX 75206
(214) 826-4200
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Cosmo’s is a longstanding Belmont dive bar in a black-light-lit space featuring random objects, from merman sculptures to neon yellow Christmas trees. They have old-school video games and serve Vietnamese food and pizza along with well-poured cocktails. I’d go to Cosmo’s for the authentic Vietnamese cuisine as much as the cocktails. I loved their lychee martini.
Whiskeys
835 Exposition Ave, Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 702-2959
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As the name suggests, Whiskeys is a whiskey bar with a classy atmosphere in Fair Park. I adored the charming and refined interior, which is lined with hundreds of bottles, alluding to the extensive list of whiskeys available.
Texas Tapyard
3675 Ross Ave, Dallas, TX 75204
(469) 608-1780
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Located in Bryan Place a few blocks from J.W. Ray Park, Texas Tapyard is a cute and colorful patio restaurant and bar with a palm-tree-covered backyard and old-school patio furniture. They call themselves a retro resort, but you still get 18 big-screen TVs broadcasting your favorite games. Texas Tapyard has a tap list of beers and cocktails. I delighted in a frozen margarita with nachos.
Time Out Tavern Sports Bar
5101 W Lovers Ln, Dallas, TX 75209
(214) 956-9552
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A Bluffview institution, Time Out Tavern Sports Bar has been a local hangout since 1988. They have a large menu of spirits, domestic and local craft beers, and wine, set in a casual, fun atmosphere. I’d recommend going for the best happy hour drink deals in town, from 2-7 pm daily.
Jaxon Beer Garden
311 S Akard St, Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 838-1422
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Located a block from Pioneer Plaza in the Main Street District, Jaxon Beer Garden is a polished yet lively gastropub and beer garden with a sleek, modern patio and an industrial-chic interior. They offer 34 local and regional beers along with fine spirits and expertly mixed cocktails. Their food menu features Texas and Southern soul food with a gourmet presentation. I had a pint of IPA to wash down a delicious corndog.
Casablanca
200 N Bishop Ave Suite 113, Dallas, TX 75208
(972) 863-9600
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Casablanca is a stunning Asian and Middle Eastern fusion cocktail bar and eatery in the Bishop Arts District. The oasis-like dining space alone is worth a visit, but the cocktails and food are just as exquisite. The menu runs the gamut of Asian, South Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine, with everything from Dandan Noodles to Falafel. I recommend trying one of their sumptuously boozy teas.
Why should you trust us?
We use our own local experience and contacts in the city to know which places to include in our lists. We also researched the web and read 5 reputable blogs and websites, including dallas.eater.com, timeout.com, tripadvisor.com, directory.dmagazine.com, and thrillist.com. So that you can be sure you’re receiving the best of the best. We compiled all the results in one spot and ranked them according to how frequently they were referenced.
You missed the FOE 3108!
Guess you haven’t been to Reno’s chop shop in deep ellum. 😎