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Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, others you want a stout drink in a quiet corner. DFW’s best bars offer a bit of everything.
Are your pipes warmed up for a night of karaoke? Maybe you’re looking for a friendly spot to catch a game on a big-screen with pals. Whether you’re in the mood for light jazz and handcrafted cocktails, boot-scooting and a PBR or dressing to the nines and sipping a mixologist’s latest magic elixir, your next watering hole is ready for you in Big D. Our favorite bars — listed alphabetically, not ranked — offer places to match your mood and personality. Rock the night away, check out a flight of North Texas’ fine craft brews and booze or soothe your stressed soul in a padded booth at a friendly neighborhood dive. The choices are endless, but we promise that somewhere on this list is a spot ready to welcome you as its newest regular. But why stop at one? We’ve field-tested all these joints and many, many more, and we promise: Your home-away-from-home is here waiting for you with a chilling drink and welcoming smile.
By Jacob Vaughn, David Fletcher, Eva Raggio, Lauren Daniels and Observer staff and contributors.
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Swizzle
Dallas got its first proper tiki bar in 2020, smack dab in the middle of a pandemic. But, you can't keep a good grind down. Fully vested in every aspect of island life, including a Dole whip machine and tropical drinks served in SPAM tins, this spot on Lowest Greenville serves traditional Hawaiian plates with a side of floral every inch of the way. The water feature on the patio adds a nice island touch if you prefer to sit outside. There are private lounge areas inside that can be reserved for groups. Aloha and mahalo, time to get the grass skirt out.
1802 Greenville Ave., #110, Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Lee Harvey's
With its throwback wood-paneled walls and old-school neon beer signs, Lee Harvey’s is the pinnacle of dive-bar excellence. A Dallas institution, this ol’ watering hole is exactly where you’d want to go to knock down a few cold ones after a long week of work. Don’t have a hot date? No problem. Bring your pup and hang out on the patio, which is one of the best that Dallas has to offer. And when you’re good and toasty, be sure to grab an order of onion rings that come with a side of to-die-for chipotle aioli. They’re straight-up more addictive than crack (not that we’ve tried crack, or anything).
1807 Gould St., Dallas, 75215
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Midnight Rambler
The soundtrack at this subterranean bar at the Joule Hotel in downtown Dallas is as well crafted as the neo-classic cocktails and art-deco interior. The swanky, dimly lit gem has speakeasy vibes. But the mirrored wall behind the bar holding the shelves of liquor bathed in backlighting lets everyone know the star of the show here is the cocktail program. Have a favorite eclectic drink that's hard to find? Try the bartenders here. Chances are they'll serve the best one you've ever had. Or stick to the classics like a French 75 or an old fashion, which puts this spot in its truest form. Reservations are a must if you're going with a group of four or more.
1530 Main St., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Alexandre's
Courtesy Alexandre's
If you’re in the mood for drinks but don’t want to get wasted on vodka-crans, Alexandre’s is your spot. The long bar, comfortable seating and small stage give Alexandre’s the intimate feel of a speakeasy or jazz lounge. Plus, the knowledgeable team can whip up delicious craft cocktails such as mint julep, clover clubs and sidecars. On weekends, Alexandre’s showcases local talent with live music performances from local singers and bands.
4026 Cedar Springs Rd., Dallas, 75219
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Spider Murphy's
This Irish pub owned by Dublin-native Feargal McKinney opened in 2021 but already has an old soul feel. Dark, heavy, wooden furniture and old-world accouterments provide cozy niches for couples or small groups. The main seating area connects to a covered deck with picnic tables for an open-air, big-city energy. They serve classic bar food with a sprinkling of Tex-Mex and a few vegan offerings. McKinney even brought over a few menu favorites from his other spot, The Old Monk. Whoever picks the soundtrack here deserves a gold star; we need more ‘80s rock. The beer menu includes imports, Paulaner Hefeweizen, Hoegaarden; and local beers like Deep Ellum and Lakewood Temptress. The house cocktails are $7 during happy hour, Tuesday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
2810 N. Henderson Ave., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Twilite Lounge
As you walk down Elm Street in Deep Ellum, you’ll pass a heavy black door and red shaded windows. This is the Twilite Lounge, and it is known for its incredible, seasoned bar staff who know their way around a good cocktail. Known also for its frequent free live shows that might get a little loud for folks there to unwind, Twilight Lounge also has a cozy little patio area out back with plenty of table seating at which guests can chat away into the night.
2640 Elm St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Wild Detectives
Catherine Downes
Oak Cliff staple The Wild Detectives is a serene spot for avid readers as a bookstore, coffee shop and bar all in one built in a charming old home at the edge of Bishop Arts. With a large, pet-friendly backyard decorated with books hanging on a clothesline, it’s also an event space for readings, performances such as Shakespeare in the Bar, concerts and panels. The rustic-yet-polished wood-covered store offers rare finds such as foreign books and books by independent publishers — there’s no better way to channel your inner Hemingway than by reading great works with a beer or five. Maybe have a sandwich and coffee, too, before driving home.
314 W 8th St, Dallas / Fort Worth, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Old Monk
The Old Monk opened in 1998 and has been a Dallas staple since. Generations have given this place their days, sipping dark beer through the night, followed by brunch behind big sunglasses in the morning. Their fish and chips are tops in the city. The bar has draft beers from around the world plus 70 bottles to choose from, with a few locals squeezed in. Two sister bars are down the street — The Skellig and recently opened Spider Murphy's — if you’re up for a European dark bar walking tour. During the pandemic, they pivoted to a daytime coffee bar to extend hours for employees. They serve coffee from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
2847 Henderson Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Lakewood Landing
Lakewood Landing is the “upscale dive” Dallasites turn to for a great burger and a neighborhood bar atmosphere that you just can’t find at many places around town these days. The Landing packs a lot of character into its small space with a pool table and jukebox that is kept updated with local favorites. The bar also has a big patio area out front with plenty of seating to get some air and talk music, sports or anything with locals who know where the good times really roll.
5818 Live Oak St., Dallas, 75214
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Bodega Wine Bar
Lauren Drewes Daniels
Though it’s been around for years, this Lakewood wine bar still feels like a well-kept secret. Bodega’s cozy, cave-like atmosphere and cushy armchairs and couches are perfect for settling in and spending a couple of good hours getting to know its savvy selection of global wines. If you need help deciding, the owners choose every bottle and know their inventory perfectly. The wines are available for retail purchase, too.
6434 E Mockingbird Lane, #109, Dallas, 75214
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Rail Club
The Rail Club Live is about as rock ‘n’ roll of a club as they come. It's owner, Chris Polone, managed to hang on against all the odds. After COVID-19 hit, Polone kept his bar open in spite of government shutdown orders, attracting the ire of both Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Yet Polone pushed on and led a statewide movement, inspiring other bar owners to open their doors in solidarity. Pandemic and politics aside, though, the Rail is one of the best places to see straight-up rock music across all of Dallas-Fort Worth. And, given its staying power through a freakin’ pandemic, the best is yet to come.
3101 Joyce Dr., Fort Worth, 76116-5114
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Peticolas Brewing Co.
Peticolas had been putting its beer in cans for only six months when the pandemic arrived and forced its taproom’s closure. Suddenly those four-packs became the brewery’s lifeline, and loyal customers lined up their cars, bikes and running shoes to pick up curbside beer to go. As grateful as we were to pound Velvet Hammers in our own homes, it’s wonderful that the split-level taproom is finally back open. There’s no better place in town to catch soccer games; Peticolas shows everything from Champions League to regional Mexican matches, and it’s a semi-official home for FC Dallas fans who don’t want to drive to Frisco. If there aren’t any games on, start your own by playing foosball, pingpong or shuffleboard upstairs.
1301 Pace St., Dallas, 75207
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Apothecary
Kathy Tran
You will miss Apothecary the first time you attempt to visit. That’s part of its charm. This self-ascribed “avant-garde cocktail lounge” is a dark respite from the elements. Here the world is shuttered out, the noise turned down to a delightful whisper. On one visit, a guest at the next table was watching videos on his phone, loudly. Luckily he left before we were able to ask to move. It’s just not a phone-out, sound-up place. At all. There are plenty of those around the city, but not here. Every server knows the cocktail menu inside and out and could narrate a documentary on each drink. The menu is broken into three levels, starting with classics to more free-solo rock climbing type adventures like an R-Oaxaca-Fort (a blue cheese mezcal number) and Death in the Afternoon (absinthe and bubbles). The food menu includes a charcuterie board, caviar service, a vegan Bolognese and a short-rib plate served with potato pave and white chocolate. Make reservations to be sure to get a seat.
1922 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Kessaku
Lauren Drewes Daniels
Fifty floors atop The National building in downtown sits Michelin-star chef Danny Grants’ cocktail and sushi den, Kessaku. To find it, take the elevators to Monarch on the 49th floor, but instead of going to the restaurant, take a left into a hallway and head upstairs. You’ll find a posh cocktail lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows delivering a stunning skyline view. Hip-hop music overhead is turned up, and when the place is packed, it’s loud. We can’t report much on the cocktails and sushi, other than they went down real easy; perhaps it’s asking too much to compete with this view and big boss energy. Valet is available and reservations are a must.
1401 Elm St., 50th Floor, Dallas, 75202
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Strangeways
A Yelp reviewer's complaint about this place is exactly what makes it so endearing to its fans. He was miffed because the "non-recognized music is not able to be changed." Exactly. One of the best craft beer bars around, Strangeways is an off-beat East Dallas neighborhood pub with a great patio. The eclectic wall art, vibe, conversation, music and whatever else is specifically not designed to appeal to the masses. You just either dig it or you don't. Most do. Keep an eye out for their flight nights and pop-up dinners. And their bar food is some of the best around.
2429 N. Fitzhugh Ave., Dallas, 75204
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Texas Theatre
Barak Epstein
The Texas Theatre is where Lee Harvey Oswald hid from police after he shot JFK. But that bit of history trivia is only one element in the landmark’s mystique, and the institution would be just as interesting without it. The theater offers impeccable film programming with classic films and art house gems, and its special events are just as exciting, with offbeat performances and concerts that take place behind the movie screen. Through the years The Texas Theatre has become a microcosm of Dallas culture, and its bar is an ideal spot to rub shoulders with the artists — many of whom work behind the bar — who keep the city interesting. So tip them well.
231 W. Jefferson Blvd., Dallas, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Neon Kitten
Kathy Tran
At the back of Neon Kitten is The Blackbird Society, a reservations-only speakeasy.
An izakaya is the Japanese version of an Irish pub or American tavern: a casual bar that serves small snacks. At Neon Kitten, which can be found by looking for the neon pink sign high in the window outside, the snacks are sushi and dim sum, and stacked plastic baskets allow the tender steamed dumplings and wontons to stay warm without getting soggy. The drinks are Japanese-inspired too. On a hot day, try the Osaka, a snowcone-like drink served in a ceramic Hello Kitty mug made with ume and cherry blossom liqueurs, Roku gin, and a touch of sage and grapefruit-like pomelo for a touch of acidity. Large peonies are painted across the walls. Head toward the bathroom and take notice of a bookshelf, which is actually a door that leads to The Blackbird Society. This speakeasy is a high-end cocktail lounge where a bartender will craft a drink for you based on your preferences, likely expanding the boundaries of what you thought was a good drink. The Blackbird Society is only open Thursday through Sunday. Check their website for reservations; on occasion, if the crowd is light, they may invite a few people from Neon Kitten back.
2805 Main St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Peak Inn
When Joe Morales opened this bar in November 2019, he called it his retirement bar, — the kind of place he wants to find a stool to call home later down the road. Many locals and regulars are already doing that. The bar food here is superior; you might not find a better late-night burger in this city. The jukebox has a cultured range from Lizzo to Jerry Jeff Walker. The weekday happy hour lasts until 10 p.m. and the kitchen stays open to 1:30 a.m. every night. The vibe, strong drinks and food make it a big draw for service industry workers after they get off their shifts.
The Lil' Kahuna burger with a house-made Thousand Island dressing is a critic favorite.
132 N. Peak St., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Atlas
Lauren Drewes Daniels
House-made pho
Atlas opened in 2021 in the Bishop Arts District with a global cocktail menu. The vibe here is come-one-come-all. Pretty Aperol Spritzes stand tall alongside bottles of Lone Stars on the bar. It’s a fun mix of locals, tourists and first dates. Notice a bookshelf at the back of the bar and ask yourself if anyone here is doing much reading. Not likely. The bookshelf serves as a fake door that leads to a back bar, which rotates global themes (remember, Atlas) and seats about two dozen but packs in many more. It’s open in the evenings, Friday through Sunday. Try the pho, it’s co-owner Dan Bui’s family recipe, and it's bliss. And their toasty Cuban with house-roasted pork is magnificent.
408 N. Bishop Ave., Dallas, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Ruins
The sister bar of Armoury D.E., Ruins is rooted deep in Latin culture. With original artwork hanging on the wall, an exquisite menu of authentic Latin American dishes and the longest list of tequilas and mezcals we’ve ever seen, Ruins is a great place to meet up with friends for some adventurous bites and classic libations. Ruins also offers a little music venue in the back called The Limbo Room. Small though it may be, the bar has gone to great lengths to ensure that patrons get a full VIP experience with close proximity to the band and world class lighting and sound.
2653 Commerce St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Sons of Hermann Hall
The oldest bar in Dallas, Sons of Hermann Hall on the corner of Elm and Exposition on the outskirts of Deep Ellum has been there since 1910. Still used as a private lodge, the building is now a Texas Historic Landmark. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, Sons of Hermann Hall is open to the public as a bar for happy hour and for some of the area’s best concerts, but closes at midnight before things really heat up in Deep Ellum.
3414 Elm St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Sundown at Granada
Sundown at Granada
The historic Granada Theater on Greenville Avenue has a younger sister next door that’s just as worthy of recognition. OK, Marcia? With a rooftop patio, a covered patio and yet another outdoor heated patio, it’s the perfect spot for those still wary of gathering indoors, while the perfectly dim indoor space holds a stage that’s a frequent spot for local and touring acts. The bar staff is efficient and friendly, and the food is restaurant-quality, so whatever your evening plans, it’s a solid one-stop choice. While Sundown is a particularly great hangout spot to keep the party going after taking in a show next door, it’s a destination all on its own.
3520 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Stan's Blue Note
Sports, sports and more sports await you at Stan’s Blue Note. This little lower Greenville dive bar is a great place to catch football, hockey, basketball and any other sporting event you can imagine. Watch the game on multiple screens from the comfort of multiple barstools or soft couches. Plus, games like table shuffleboard and foosball are fun ways to pass the time during off season. Drinks are fairly cheap, so with pitchers of beer, you can celebrate your team’s victory. Or mourn another Cowboys loss. Whichever.
2908 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Balcony Club
courtesy Lorena Davey
Few places are left where you can truly feel like you’re in a bygone era, but the Balcony Club feeds that fantasy convincingly. The landmark jazz club on the second floor next to the old Lakewood Theater is a go-to spot for aspiring old-timers, no matter their age. The intimate space and dimly lit ambiance scream “date night,” as there’s only room for a cheek-to-cheek dancing, making The Balcony a great choice to take that person you’re trying to get to know much, much better.
1825 Abrams Parkway, Dallas, 75214
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Trick Pony
Lauren Drewes Daniels
Trick Pony is a side-hustle bar of Marlow MXM but has a completely different energy. While it can get rowdy on busy weekends, it often displays characteristics of a more mild-mannered middle child. While the interior design has a harsh industrial feel, the cocktails are anything but. As they like to say, this isn’t a one-trick pony; the theme here changes every few months, offering a buzzy tour of the world. Last summer, they were shaking up island-inspired drinks for a tiki lounge stint. They just finished a New York City tour with drinks like No Sleep ‘Til Brooklyn and a You Can Kick It (yes, you can). Next up is Havana then Paris. But they always have a staycation menu of Dallas favorites, like the Don’t Be a Prick with vodka and prickly pear, rhubarb, watermelon lime and mint. For a more intimate experience, ask a bartender if Pony Tail is available, a separate four-seat bar in the back with a dedicated bar and server.
2819 Main St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Roy G's
Who’s interested in a threesome? Come on, get your mind out of the gutter. We’re talking about the threesome deals at Roy G’s, the gayborhood’s vibrant, rainbow-themed diner bar. For a few bucks, you can get the Taste the Rainbow threesome, which includes a shot of Three Olives, a shot of lemonade and some Skittles. A bolder option is the Needle to the Heart; a shot of Jameson cold brew, a shot of Red Bull and chocolate espresso beans. At Roy G’s, you can decompress with some libations without breaking the bank. Not to mention, food items like the pickle brined chicken sandwich and the Snookie’s burger are pretty damn good.
4001 Cedar Springs Rd., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Truck Yard
Off the beaten path off Lowest Greenville is a favorite lunch and drink spot for Dallasites that really just wants the city to kick back and relax. The Truck Yard’s food menu is short: Philly cheesesteak, sandwich and/or nachos. But what more do you really need to eat at a bar with so much space in their massive patio area? Truck Yard also serves up beers brewed at their own By The Horns brewery in Mansfield. Whether you’re brunching, lunching or hunching for a country bar in the middle of this big city, The Truck Yard is your spot.
5624 Sears St., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Kessler Theater
Mike Brooks
The Kessler Theater, which is a Dallas icon as big as some of the legends who grace its stage, has had more iterations than Diddy’s had stage names. For the past few years, under the vision of current owner Edwin Cabaniss, it’s become a concert destination for music stars and up-and-coming locals alike. While the venue’s bar is not open independently of show dates, it’s worth praise just for the stellar drinking experience. First of all, there are two bars, and the little one upstairs has a particularly cool backstage feel; the bars are open long before show times, giving patrons ample time to get their chattiness out of their systems before sitting down to enjoy a show. This is likely the explanation for the infamous viral incident a few years back when a fringe-booted woman and her friend were kicked out of a LeeAnn Womack show for refusing to stop speaking loudly during the performance: Maybe they just didn’t get there early enough to pre-game and get all their obnoxious banter out of the way.
1230 W. Davis St., Dallas, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Andy's Bar
Courtesy Andy's Bar
Located across the street from Denton’s famed Recycled Books is Andy’s Bar. Three bars in one, Andy’s boasts an upstairs cocktail bar called the Paschall Bar with a library vibe, a music venue and a basement bar with more of that signature Denton music and arts feel. Aside from its drink menu, Andy’s offers some delicious bar eats including loaded waffle fries, sliders and wings. Whether you’re going to catch a show or just spending a night outside the city, Andy’s is sure to make your evening on the square just a bit more lively.
122 N. Locust St., Denton, 76201
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Old Crow
The humble Old Crow is wholly unpretentious, and it’s just the kind of dive bar that you’d make a beeline for directly after getting dumped. No, it’s not the fanciest club in all of Dallas, but it’s still got a certain je ne sais quoi that keeps patrons coming back week after week. Want to down a couple of cheap beers and throw some darts? No problem. Want to order a round of reasonably priced shots to help you forget your terrible day? Well, look no further. With plywood floors and classic Busch Light and Pabst Blue Ribbon neon lights, The Old Crow is a seriously excellent hole-in-the-wall worthy of your hard-earned cash. Every true Dallasite has made some memories there — if they can remember the night, that is.
1911 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206-7438
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Boulevardier
Kathryn DeBruler
This quaint French bistro in the Bishop Arts District has one of the best brunches in the city, a celebrated wine list, phenomenal French cuisine and a stellar oyster program. It almost feels arrogant of them to also have one of the best bars in the city. And, yet, here we are. Every Friday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., get half-off of every bottle of wine on their list and discounted oysters. Watch the chalkboard for the best picks. Not a wine-drinker? No problem. Their hand-crafted classic cocktails will get you wherever you need to go.
408 N. Bishop Ave., #108, Dallas, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
St. Pete's Dancing Marlin
This Deep Ellum landmark has held steady as the scene around it ebbs and flows for more than 20 years now. St. Pete’s straddles the line between a restaurant with a reliably high-caliber kitchen and a bar where anyone can grab a stool and a beer. At the end of the day, every neighborhood needs a spot like this. The expansive outdoor courtyard is great for people-watching. If you’re looking for a place to become regular, the bar at St. Pete’s has a golden real estate opportunity for you.
2730 Commerce St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Off the Record Craft Beer & Vinyl
It all started as a hipster wet dream: a semi-quiet spot in Deep Ellum to browse through vinyl records while drinking beer — exposed brick walls included. But record shop + bar Off the Record became a line-down-the-block, the-doorman-doesn’t-know-you hotspot thanks to a constant nightly rotation of Dallas’ best DJs. The small space found new life after serving for years as Club Dada’s green room. OTR is permanently packed to the rim with people actually dancing and, well, also grinding, but there’s a fairly large patio in the back if you want to talk to friends without someone twerking between you.
2716 Elm St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Goat
There are so many places with “blues” in their names that look nothing like the music they proclaim to celebrate. No self-respecting blues establishment should be brighter than your average live K-pop experience. We’re not saying the place should look like a toxic waste site. It just needs a little weathering and history to fuel the soul of the blues music that blares out of its windows. This Gaston Avenue club bleeds blues the way blood seeps out of a haunted house’s cursed walls. The Goat has a long list of talented blues folks who regularly take the stage across the nights and weekends with an occasional jukebox or karaoke night thrown into the mix. It’s the kind of place the blues would go to if it had legs and a sentient existence.
7248 Gaston Ave., Dallas, 75214
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Mitchell
Kathy Tran
Tuna crudo at The Mitchell
Downtown’s glamorous gold-themed bar can be a place for a big, romantic night out, or it can be a quick place to crash after a show. The Mitchell is versatile, and that extends to the enormous liquor selection — including dozens of gins; order a martini and they’ll ask which you want — and the party-ready Champagne options. A tiny kitchen produces big, hearty cheeseburgers and French bistro food like steak frites, venison tartare and platters of fresh oysters. When The Mitchell reopened after the pandemic, it took a while to get new drink menus printed, but in the meantime, the staff here can make darn near anything, or ask to find out about their own eccentric inventions. Just don’t order vodka. They save a bottle or two for emergencies, but that’s about it.
1404 Main St., Dallas, 75202
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Libertine Bar
This Lower Greenville staple since 2006 is known for its thoughtfully curated draught beer selection and stellar bar food, attracting both foodies and tipplers alike. Brunch on their spacious patio should certainly be on your calendar. The playlist is always great too, consisting mostly of indie rock music. Hopefully, they'll soon be able to get back to their notorious Brass Knuckle Corn Dog Beatdown contest and paired beer dinners.
2101 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Christies Sports Bar & Grill
Courtesy Christies
When the soup of the day is “mimosas” and sangrias come in towers, you know you’ve found home. Not to mention the spicy and tropical F*** It Bucket. And while we all loved (sometimes too much) their original Uptown location, their new spot has a large outdoor space; every seat on their patio, rooftop and inside has views of TVs. It's literally wall-to-wall sports here. It's a great option for catching local sports teams, especially when the weather is nice and you can sit on the patio.
2817 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75204
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Sue Ellen's
Since 1989, Sue Ellen’s has been a staple in Dallas lesbian nightlife where everyone is welcome. They used their pandemic hiatus to upgrade, update and polish everything. When they finally reopened in early in June, pride month, of course, a crowd poured onto the sidewalk waiting to get inside. Keep an eye out for their new schedule for their regular events and live music, but regulars, rest assured, karaoke on Thursdays is back.
3014 Throckmorton St., Dallas, 75219
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Rare Books Bar
Chris Wolfgang
It’s not too late to try to latch on to the bourbon boom that’s swept the nation for the last decade or so. If you want to broaden your whiskey horizons beyond Jack Daniel’s or Jim Beam, then Rare Books is where you need to be. It’s a speakeasy-style joint inside J. Theodore’s Restaurant in Frisco, and each week, Rare Books announces a classic literary title that you’ll need to give to the Librarian to get in. Seating is limited to 50 or so patrons, but if you can get in, be ready to do some reading; the bourbon (and scotch, rye, Japanese whisky and Irish whiskey) menu stretches eight pages, with further options for flights and crafted cocktails. If there’s a rare whiskey you always wanted to try but could never afford a bottle, chances are Rare Books can offer you a pour. (Editor's note: the spelling "whiskey" for general uses and whisky for Scotch, Canadian and Japanese version is an AP Stylebook rule. Maybe the well-read folks here can explain why, but don't ask whether Jack Daniel's should be called bourbon unless you're spoiling for an argument.)
6959 Lebanon Road, Suite 110, Frisco, 75034
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Oak Cliff Brewing at Tyler Station Beer Garden
courtesy Oak Cliff Brewing
Around the back of this brewery in the Tyler Station and situated over the Elmwood Branch of Cedar Creek, this garden has picnic tables, shade trees and an old snow-cone trailer full of beer kegs. A taco trailer has taken up residence, too, which means that if you want to have a few pints on a weekend, there’s no reason to leave. In its early days, Oak Cliff specialized in hazy IPAs and fruited sours, and its most popular offerings now are a series of brews inspired by paleta flavors. But there are good offerings for normcore drinkers, too, like an outstanding pilsner (Bounced Czech) and a Goldilocks-style just-right blended pour called John Hancock, which mixes together the rather sweet light lager and rather bitter dark lager in one perfect cup.
1300 Polk St., #222, Dallas, 75224
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Milo Butterfingers
Simultaneously one of the 11 best dive bars in Dallas, according to Thrillist, and a bar where you can’t go after turning 30, Milo Butterfingers has been serving up cold beer, cheap wells and mediocre food to SMU students and decades-old regulars for 50 years. If we tell you the bar has 15 large HD TVs, green carpet, greasy patty melts, pool tables, video games, darts and foosball, you’ll know the fucking vibes. Lunch and drink specials — as well as the sports that will be on TV — are posted daily on Twitter.
5645 SMU Blvd., Dallas, 75206-5017
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Akai
Courtesy Akai
Let us be perfectly clear: There’s no such thing as a speakeasy anymore. Alcohol is legal again, and if you didn’t know that, we hope the rock you live under is air-conditioned. When it comes to bars based on speakeasy vibes, though, Akai is the best. To get there, a Musume staff member will guide you into the restaurant kitchen and through a cinderblock passage to the sexy backroom that is Akai. A red dragon hangs from the dark ceiling over red benches lit by warm red lights (akai is the Japanese word for “red”). The cocktails are intricate and beautifully presented. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more New York-style (not really) speakeasy in Dallas.
1740 Crockett St., Dallas, 75201
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Four Corners Brewing Co.
Lauren Drewes Daniels
Four Corners Brewing Co. has come a long way since the 5-gallon home brew system it started with an over a decade ago. Their large brewery in The Cedars neighborhood hosts their manufacturing facility and a well-adorned taproom (we love the upside-down lamp installation overhead). They offer one-of-a-kind beers brewed on a smaller experimental seven-beer barrel system behind the taproom. One of the best times to visit is Thursday evenings for lotería, which is sort of like bingo but with fresh craft beer and 20-year-olds (although your nana is more than welcome). Nosh on fried fajita balls and nachos while learning new Spanish words. Their Heart o’ Texas red ale is an Observer staff favorite. Try out the Geeks Who Drink Trivia on Sundays and monthly bike rides for more good fun.
1311 S. Ervay St., Dallas, 75215
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
City Tavern
Beth Rankin
Soaking Dallasites with booze since 2003, City Tavern is a cool downtown spot where you can grab a drink and get a bite to eat. They offer regular lunch specials, and the drink menu is as varied as it is tasty. On Tuesdays, you can get a taco special, and on Wednesdays, you can tilt Italian with a fettuccine Alfredo and garlic bread combo dish. Weekdays from 4 p.m. till 7 p.m. you can also hang out for happy hour, when they offer all sorts of specials on grub, beer and wine.
1514 Elm St., Dallas, 75201
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Dan's Silverleaf
Daniel Rodrigue
Down the street a bit from the Denton Square is the longstanding bar and music venue Dan’s Silverleaf. Decorated with local art and photos of local musicians, the atmosphere at Dan’s is welcoming to all passersby. With shows held weekly (if not daily) Dan’s is an excellent place to stop in even if you have no idea whose name is on the marquee. Whether you are brought in by the vibe or the music, Dan’s is a great place to relax with a drink and catch up with friends.
103 N. Industrial St., Denton, 76201
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Armoury D.E.
Kathy Tran
When the Armoury D.E. opened its doors in 2015, its mission was to offer some of the best cocktails, food and live music Deep Ellum had seen in years. The Armoury has stuck to what it knows best, offering a casual dining experience with a diverse selection of Hungarian comfort foods and other good stuff that doesn’t quite fit anywhere else. Be sure to ask about the burger of the week while you’re there. Also, venture out back to catch one of their free live shows, curated with a music taste as refined as the bar’s choice in booze.
2714 Elm St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Louie Louie's Piano Bar
Magic is happening at Louie Louie’s Piano Bar, where acts like Alessia Cara, Shaun Martin, Cure for Paranoia and many others grace the venue’s stage. The place is owned and operated by musicians, so you can expect a good show every time. If you hop into Louie’s on a Monday, the piano player for the night will likely be Ronnie Wilson, the owner of the venue. He’ll be slamming his keys, playing with other notable local musicians during his weekly Monday night jam. But they’ve got a whole team of pianists. If keys aren’t your thing, you’ll want to hit up Louie Louie’s for the recurring artist showcase Lockjohnson’s Playground. And don’t need to worry about going hungry or thirsty at Louie’s. Try one of their tasty signature bowls. That’s not food. It’s literally a cocktail in a bowl meant to serve three-four people. Their menu is simple but satisfying. Chips and salsa, jalapeno bottle caps and pulled pork sandwiches all go well with a night of local music at Louie Louie’s.
2605 Elm St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Reno's Chop Shop
You’ll probably hear it before you see it. A longtime favorite for bikers, skaters and metal heads, tucked away on Crowdus Street in Deep Ellum, is Reno’s Chop Shop. A bar known for its cheap drinks and absolutely insane live shows, Reno’s is a true rock bar with a lot of street cred. With all of the black clothing and tattoos its patrons are known for, it might be somewhat intimidating to walk into a place like Reno’s, but fear not. Real recognizes real, so head on in for a real good time.
210 N. Crowdus St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Green Elephant
If you’ve had a few, just tell your ride-share driver to take you to "the glowing green one,” and they’ll likely know to drop you off at The Green Elephant on Dyer Street. When you walk in, underground bass will get under your skin, forcing your best dance moves right out of you. You’ll likely end up in a sea of college students from Southern Methodist University. It’s their hang out spot after all. If you need a few more, you can swing by the bar and wash down some booze with some above-average bar fare. If you dig the vibe, go back Tuesday night and rest your chops on stage during The Green Elephant’s open mic. Live music, slam poetry and stand up comedy are all welcome. If you chicken out, throw back a few more until you have the courage to prove to the world that you’re the next Jack Kerouac, Richard Pryor or Mariah Carey.
5627 Dyer St., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Community Beer Company
Chris Wolfgang
Community Beer Company is one of the original craft breweries in Dallas. Their Mosaic IPA is a pillar in the local beer community, and their shiny new brewery just northeast of downtown that opened earlier this year is an ode to how far the local craft beer scene has come in 10 years. With more than 70,000 square feet of elbow room, this two-story production brewery and biergarten is host to families, friends, birthday parties and plenty of pooches on the weekends. They offer almost two-dozen beers on tap, all their own. Community Kitchen, an on-site kitchen, is still in the works and expected to open sometime in 2022. For now, they host food trucks on Fridays and Saturdays and delivery drivers regularly drop off boxes of pizzas to picnic tables.
3110 Commonwealth Dr., Dallas / Fort Worth, 75247
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Ship's Lounge
Ships is one of the oldest dives in town and it sits in between the Lower Greenville club scene and an old East Dallas neighborhood. Visiting Ships on any evening offers a one-of-a-kind look into what happens when the two worlds collide. On one end of the bar, you'll see folks who've been regulars since the bar opened some 50 years ago. And, just a few seats down, you'll usually see musicians and artists mixed in with people trying to catch a game on TV. The older regulars like to keep the place quiet, and they enforce a strict no-cussing policy. So be prepared to use your inside voices-or at least keep it to a dull roar. Ships has all the charm of an old-school neighborhood dive, but the people you'll rub elbows with there make the place such an interesting bar.
1613 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
House of Blues
Generally speaking, if something’s happening at House of Blues, you know it’s big. This temple of sound housed at the White Swan Building in Victory Park has enough room for 1,625 patrons. Folks in the music bizz often rub shoulders behind the ropes of the VIP area, scouting for the next big thing. This is just one room at the House of Blues, a venue with several. The Cambridge Room allows the public to catch live local bands, as does the restaurant. In the dining space, which often hosts open mics and other live music acts, patrons can munch on beef tenderloin or seafood jambalaya, burgers, ribs and more. The members-only Foundation Room offers an upscale experience complete with a cozy fireside lounge. Opened in 2007, House of Blues Dallas has become a staple for big acts rolling through the Big D.
2200 N. Lamar St., Dallas, 75202
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Amplified Live
Courtesy Gas Monkey
Equipped with a full-service restaurant, bar and a music venue, Amplified Live has a big patio area, a private pond and live music. They offer craft and imported beers and your favorite domestics. Amplified, formerly called Gas Monkey, also has a laundry list of appetizers on their menu: fried mac n’ cheese, pulled pork stuffed peppers, wings and Texas style loaded fries with queso, bacon bits and ranch dressing.
10261 Technology Boulevard E., Dallas, 75220
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Statler Hotel
We can admit when we're wrong. (It's easy after so much practice.) So we confess we had doubts the Statler Hotel, built in 1956, would ever come back to life. We had watched it sit vacant in a neglected corner of downtown for nearly two decades. But it's amazing what people with vision, dedication and $230 million can do to. In this case, they reopened the Statler as a Hilton Curio hotel in 2017. More than that, it has become a go-to place for downtown nightlife, thanks partly to its three -- count 'em -- bars. Up on the rooftop is Waterproof, offering skyline views and a pool complete with rental cabanas. Then there's Bourbon & Banter, for those who want to skip the outdoors and enjoy cocktails in a swanky underground speakeasy. Finally, for ambitious drinkers there's Scout, whose 4,000-square-foot gaming hall complete with pool tables and bowling lanes. It's the perfect spot for a one-stop pub crawl: work up a sweat bowling (if that's possible), cool down in the pool then relax your chlorinated self in dim bar, all at one address. Plus, it has rooms if your drinking leaves you unable to drive home.
1914 Commerce St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Las Almas Rotas
Beth Rankin
Tacos have been a staple here, though the menu has more recently expanded.
This “shrine to the spirits of Mexico” recently contended for a James Beard Award for best bar in the United States, a recognition of its extraordinary library of tequilas, mezcals, sotols, raicillas, corn whiskeys and more. You could nerd out over a specific rare liquor from the list of specials, or you could sit on the patio, order a margarita and jam out to one of the city’s best bar playlists.
Lots of good stories start at Las Almas Rotas, like the rumor about the back room being haunted, or the time that its owners smuggled a smoked brisket into Mexico to help distill the world’s first pechuga de brisket mezcal. Do any of the other bars on this list get involved with international barbecue smuggling? We doubt it.
Their tacos come four to a plate and are all swaddled in Molina Oloyo Heritage corn tortillas. We're partial to the chicken tinga - chipotle and tomato stewed chicken - and the roasted carrots and cauliflower vegetable options.
The chicharrones con cholula is a perfect bar snack.
3615 Parry Ave., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Dot's Hop House and Cocktail Courtyard
Mikel Galicia
Located in the heart of Deep Ellum, Dot’s Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard is the ultimate brunch spot. From its decadent duck fat cheese fries and avocado toast bruschetta, diners are always in for a treat. Patrons can sprawl out on the enormous, 10,000-square-foot dog-friendly patio, and on chilly nights, Dot’s outdoor heaters help to warm up cold bones. Be sure to pamper yourself with one of its hand-crafted cocktails, like the Dot’s Old Fashioned or the truly inspiring Strawberry Smokeshow. Plus, beer aficionados can have fun selecting craft brews off an unparalleled 99-tap drink menu. This full-service bar and restaurant makes foodies everywhere rejoice.
2645 Commerce St., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Rustic
“At The Rustic, music is part of our DNA, The Rustic’s creator Kyle Noonan said in 2020 as the bar and restaurant kicked off its Safe Sounds Music Series, a masked and socially distanced concert series aimed at keeping the music playing during the pandemic. And then there's this: “We hustle together, we party together, we play together, we fight together, but ultimately we get to celebrate the fact that we are creating the place to be,” Noonan said in a video teasing the possibility The Rustic would be the setting of a new Dallas-based reality TV series. Why not? Reality TV loves North Texas, and the massive restaurant in Uptown is filled with Texas tchotchkes and country music. Come for the grilled quail. Whatever your choice, pair it with any of the number of Texas beers on tap and you'll be off to a good start.
3656 Howell St., Dallas, 75204
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Press Box Grill
Located on the ground floor of the iconic Wilson Building, The Press Box Grill is one of the busiest sports bar in downtown. A slew of TVs makes it great for catching a game, and the pup-friendly patio offers an inclusive front-row seat to the downtown scene. They have 36 beers on tap, two dozen of which are Texas brewed, with shelves of Texas-made vodkas, whiskeys and other spirits. Soak all that up with the Press Box Reuben or, a fan-favorite, the jalapeño pork chops. The late-night menu is available until 1 a.m.
1623 Main St., Dallas, 75201
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
RL's Blues Palace
R.L. Blues Palace may be tucked away in a run-of-the-mill strip mall, but it’s a great hangout to catch a live performance and drink your blues away. A frequent inclusion on the Observer’s best bars list, R.L. Blues is located in the Oak Cliff area of South Dallas. It’s a newer iteration of an older blues spot that first opened in 1985. The bar serves plenty of beer and wines, and other drinks are available, too. But R.L. Blues can fill up pretty quick, so it might be best to call ahead and reserve a table, especially on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, when live performances are known to bring out a crowd.
2715 Meadow St., Dallas, 75215
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Jettison
Don’t get us wrong: Jettison makes good classic cocktails, including highballs, martinis and an especially precise Old Fashioned. But the draw here is the seasonally changing menu of new inventions, which head bartender George Kaiho conjures from unlikely inspirations. Just during the pandemic alone, there were cocktails with mustard green juice and Parmesan cheese. One creation combined gin, mezcal, coconut, lime, chili oil and cilantro into a cocktail that tasted like Thai curry — and, before you ask, not only was it drinkable, it was terrific. So is the atmosphere, one of the quietest and most discreet bars in the city, an ideal place for an elegant date night or a top secret spy rendezvous. Reservations recommended.
1878 Sylvan Ave., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Poor David's Pub
From a huge bar to a spacious sitting area and a damn-fine lineup of country, folk and acoustic acts, things are looking up at Poor David’s Pub. The place has been trucking along in the Dallas music scene since 1977. It started with a guy named David Card, the owner, also known as the David of Poor David’s. He’s been there for it all, as acts like Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Mickey Newbury and so many others passed through Dallas to play his stage. The Dixie Chicks, now the Chicks, also played their first show in Dallas at Card’s club. Going through a few iterations, once a club on McKinney Avenue, and then in Lower Greenville, Poor David’s has become a staple of the local music scene at its current spot off Botham Jean Boulevard.
1313 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, 75215
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Billy Bob's Texas
Caity Colvard
Its building was originally an open air barn built over a century ago to hold cattle for the Fort Worth Stock Show. Since then it has served as an airplane factory and department store before arriving at its true calling in 1981, opening its doors at Billy Bob's Texas, self-billed as "the world's largest honky tonk." There may be a bigger one out there somewhere, but we doubt it, and there's certainly none that has hosted the likes of ZZ Top, BB King and Willie Nelson's July 4th picnic. There's bull riding, both mechanical and live, 30 bar stations and enough space for an army of dancers to two-step the night away in comfort.
2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, 76164
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Charlie's Star Lounge
Charlie Binks
“Be Kind, Unwind” is the tagline for this bar right outside of Deep Ellum in the location of the old Starlight Lounge. Allen Falker, owner of Nines in Deep Ellum, and general manager Corey Howe had to replace almost everything in the building: plumbing, electrical, roof, floor, HVAC, bathrooms (for ADA compliance), the parking lot — everything. What is left is a straightforward bar with DJ, music video and karaoke nights. Be sure to try the Cherry Lime-Yay! a frozen cherry limeade with vodka, and if you’re feeling extra fancy, an OIld Fashioned made with Garrison Brothers Single Barrel.
4319 Main St., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Adair's Saloon
Adair’s Saloon is Deep Ellum’s outpost for what truly makes country music country. With frequent guest musicians representing the best of outlaw country from North Texas and around the nation, Adair’s boasts a honky tonk vibe in a dive bar atmosphere. The kitchen is open until 1:30 a.m. nightly offering some of the best bar burgers, sandwiches and wings for a surprisingly reasonable price. Be sure to grab a pen and leave your mark on the wall. Some may call it graffiti, but the good folks at Adair’s call it art.
2624 Commerce St., Dallas, 75226-1402
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Opening Bell Coffee
Good tunes and bangin’ cups of joe are a given at Opening Bell Coffee. With one of the longest-running open mic nights in DFW, the shop’s stage has seen the likes of Leon Bridges, Charley Crockett and many who have gone on to compete on NBC's The Voice and American Idol. Patrons who attend the shop's open mic will often catch an early glimpse of the next big thing in the local music scene. Whether it’s during an open mic or a show featuring a national touring act, you can sit back and soak in the music while getting cracked out on something off their Java menu. Depending on what you plan to order, you might consider bringing a pair of boxing gloves too. Consisting of a 16-ounce drip coffee mixed with two shots of espresso just for fun, Opening Bell’s Black Eye packs a punch that might knock you on your feet. If you’re not down for coffee, you can always grab a beer or a glass of wine and order something tasty off their food menu, like a sandwich, soup or salad.
1409 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, 75215
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Six Springs Tavern
Located just north of Dallas in Richardson, Six Springs Tavern is a somewhat new hangout in a spot that has more than four decades of live music history. Now, they serve all your favorite booze and put on shows by local, regional and national music acts. Lucky for you, Six Springs can hold a big crowd, with a capacity of more than 300. Even luckier, they’ve got a full bar that serves domestic and imported beers, has micro brews on draft and offers a variety of bottles and cans, as well as hard booze and wines. The kitchen also serves appetizers and entrees, and it happens to be a pretty darn good spot to spend a boozy brunch.
147 N. Plano Rd., Richardson, 75081
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Sandaga 813
Across the street from Fair Park is the lounge-y Sandaga, a destination for music connoisseurs with a discriminating ear. The Exposition Avenue club is a gem that shines with its stellar booking, from reggae nights to jazz. Erykah Badu’s band is frequently found on the venue’s stage, and the Queen herself is known to bust out an impromptu performance there from time to time. On weekends especially, every inch of the space vibrates to the grooviest frequency. The eclectic, laid-back space makes it the perfect no-frills setting to see some of the city’s best.
813 Exposition Ave., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Texas Live
Lauren Drewes Daniels
Just outside Globe Life Park is a bevy of restaurants and bars, all housed under one roof called Texas Live! And if you’ve ever thought, “Sure wish I could watch the game somewhere fun tonight” this is your home. Before a Rangers game, it's packed with families and sports fans scarfing down plates of nachos and sipping cold drinks. The ginormous screen at the center of it all, including many other TVs around it, makes this one of the best places to watch a Stars or Mavericks playoff runs. Neighbors include Troy Aikman’s restaurant and live music place, aptly called Troy’s. There’s a Guy Fieri taco stand as well. Texas Live! host concerts, DJs, family movie nights watch parties and serve local craft beer and whisky.
1605 E. Randoll Mill Rd., Arlington, 76011
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Nines
Mike Brooks
The Lizard Lounge’s sister venue, Red Light, was reborn in 2016 as The Nines.WIth a new layout and sound, lights and video equipment, The Nines shot into the scene with a grand opening jam-packed with live music and aerial performances. What used to be a dance club for EDM-focused DJs turned into a mecca for a vast selection of live music and entertainment. A staple of the club’s event calendar is the aerial performances. This should come as no surprise considering who the owner is: Allen Falkner, a suspension artist. He’s not your run of the mill suspension artist, though. Falkner popularized the craft and is known as "the father of modern suspension." His wife Courtney Crave is an international model, burlesque dancer and aerialist. Needless to say, there’s always something interesting going on at The Nines. When there’s music, you can grab a drink and some good ass tacos before you hit the dance floor.
2911 Main St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Tiny Victories
Lauren Drewes Daniels
One appeal of Tiny Victories might be that it's near the Bishop Arts District, but not in it. Not that we don't love the eclectic entertainment area, but you need to stretch out before you try to find parking. Here, at West Davis and Tyler Street, is a cozy cocktail den with a patio and happy hour that says, "Well, hi there, neighbor," with a wink. They offer half-priced cocktails from 4 to 7 p.m. every Tuesday through Friday. The cocktail menu has classics like a 1916 Aviation with gin, Luxardo Maraschino, Creme de Violette and lemon. From the not-so-classic menu try a $5 house shot called Spring Break '99 (strawberry and vodka). My Neck, My Daq is a Miller High Life with a "Snaquiri" for $8. Now, see, that is a tiny victory.
Besides, who doesn't love a place with a Bob Ross shrine?
604 N. Tyler St., Dallas, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Grapevine
Kathy Tran
Not even Greg Louganis in his prime combined "gay" and "dive" as seamlessly as The Grapevine. With its mismatched chairs and glassware, the place veers perilously close to the pitfall of prefabrication. But thanks to the cheap drinks and screwball clientele, the bar manages to carve out its own niche in the realm of authentic dives in its own flamboyant way. And then there's the basketball half-court on the asphalt patio outside. Local straight bars could certainly take a cue from The Grapevine on that one: Who wouldn't want to have a few brews and then engage in a game of three-on-three? That said, the "No Physical Play Allowed" sign has probably drawn a few laughs.
3902 Maple Ave., Dallas, 75219
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
DanSungSa
Beth Rankin
People don’t really go to DanSungSa before 8 p.m. The scene picks up late at this classic Korean joint, which on Thursdays and Fridays closes just before sunrise the next day. Grab a karaoke room or a booth in the bar, which have big, dark privacy shields covered in soju advertisements. If the ads inspire you, there’s plenty of soju to be had, along with a list of Korean, Japanese and Okinawan beers (note to the uninitiated: Orion is pronounced “Oh-ree-awn”). The bar snacks, including bulgogi kimchi burritos and huge family-sized platters of crispy fried chicken, make DanSungSa a go to spot for late night food and beverages.
11407 Emerald St. #121, Dallas, 75229
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Thunderbird Station
A cousin to Double and Single Wide, Thunderbird Station is located just outside of Deep Ellum proper on Commerce. With specialty cocktails like the Peel Out — a Push-Up Pop-inspired orange, vanilla and vodka drink — and upgraded spins on Southern favorites like sloppy joes, bologna sandwiches and Frito pie, Thunderbird Station takes its ‘50s vintage gas station aesthetic quite seriously. Thunderbird Station also has a large outdoor patio with plenty of room to spread out and gather together. Try their Frito chili pie or grilled bologna sandwiches. The Boss comes with cheese, grilled onion, jalapenos and a secret sauce. They also have a few variations of a sloppy Joe; the Sloppy Joelen is vegan.
3400 Commerce St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Pegasus City Brewery Downtown
If you’ve ever wanted to drink beer in an art deco architectural masterpiece, your dreams came true during the pandemic when Pegasus City Brewery opened a second taproom downtown. The space is an old department store, and the chandeliers, among other period details, are 1930s originals. Sit in the display windows and you can look out over both Commerce Street and the simple black-and-white bar, which serves pints of easy-drinking beers like Woofus cream kolsch and Texikaner black lager. This is an ideal place to take tourists on a ramble through downtown, especially when the patio is playing host to food pop-ups.
1508 Commerce St., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Forum Bar
Courtesy Forum Bar
The Forum, the oldest bar in Richardson, is the kind of bar you think of when you’re looking for a friendly, neighborhood place to grab a drink. It’s got everything that should be standard in every bar in America: pool tables, darts, a jukebox, a happy hour with free appetizers and the occasional live show. The Forum goes a few extra yards with unique specials like Poolside Meatball Mondays with free meatballs and pool, Tallboy Taco Tuesdays, Egg Rock ’n’ Roll Thursdays with egg rolls and bingo and Sweet Heat Sing-a-Long Saturdays with craft margaritas and karaoke. Does your bar have a beer AND taco Tuesday? Probably not.
300 N. Coit Rd., Richardson, 75080-5400
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Will Call
Alison McLean
Eggs Cheesesteak
On approach, this spot has straight sports-bar vibes. TVs deck the walls, all tuned into a game; wings and Philly cheesesteaks are heavy hitters on the menu. However, you should start with a salad, which would be odd at a sports bar, right? That’s the first sign that something here is “different.” The bowl of fresh greens with a delicate dressing and spicy pecans is remarkable. Then, bite into a wing with its house-made sauces and rubs, and you’ll know you’ve been bar-food fooled. That might make more sense once you learn that the chef, Josh Farrell, worked under Bruno Davaillon at The Mansion.
Top Picks: The “recycled” wings are made with a mix of vegetables, like bell pepper and onions, which are ground, pulverized and freeze-dried then applied as a dry rub. They’re unique and magnificent.
Top Picks: The “recycled” wings are made with a mix of vegetables, like bell pepper and onions, which are ground, pulverized and freeze-dried then applied as a dry rub. They’re unique and magnificent.
2712 Main St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Lava Cantina
Located in the chic northern suburb of The Colony, Lava Cantina is another spot where you can do it all: get your music fix, get your fill of food and tip back a few drinks. The food is described as Creole with a Mexican twist, an interesting way of spicing up an already spicy cuisine. But if you came to eat, you’ll stay for the live tunes and the good drinks. Owned by a career musician, Lava Cantina regularly hosts live shows. The drink menu offers draft and canned beers, wines, specialty cocktails and signature shots: cheetah juice and PB & J (“Not like Mom’s”), to name a couple.
5805 Grandscape Blvd, The Colony, 75056
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Deep Ellum Art Co.
Courtesy Deep Ellum Art Co.
Deep Ellum Art Co. is in one of the most trafficked neighborhoods in Dallas, so it makes sense that you’d find a spot that offers live music, lots of art and a good mix of drinks and grub from food trucks. The inside space is a whopping 5,000 square feet and boasts of being home to the biggest backyard in the neighborhood, complete with an art gallery. They even have foosball and Connect Four, along with 27 beers, a slate of draft cocktails and a selection of wines on tap.
3200 Commerce St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Library Bar
The Library Bar sits on the ground floor of the historic Warwick Melrose Hotel in the Oak Lawn area, not far from downtown Dallas. Designated a Dallas Historic Landmark in 1983, the original apartment hotel was built in 1924. The Library Bar offers patrons a relaxing, dimly lit piano-bar environment in a laid-back library setting -- though at night, it's far too dark in The Library Bar to read any of the books lining the shelves. The bar specializes in wines and martinis. It offers live music, so the library setting makes a great cozy place to unwind while sipping a well-made drink.
3015 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, 75219
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Virgin Hotels Dallas
Virgin Hotels has been expanding its footprint, setting up shop in Nashville, New York and Las Vegas, with other locations slated for New Orleans, Edinburgh, Scotland, Miami and Palm Springs. But, the hotel chain didn’t make Dallas wait. Late 2019 marked the grand opening of Virgin’s hotel in the Big D. The place helped ring in 2020 with its Avant Eden New Year’s Eve party. In The Pool Club, the hotel’s fourth-floor rooftop bar and pool deck, people sipped cocktails and listened to a set by DJ Sam Blacky. Private cabanas and a daybed that seats up to 20 people surrounds the pool. As you lay there listening to beats spun by the likes of DJ’s Ari & Rizza and Rizkilla, you can stuff your face with light bites and slam cocktails down your gullet.
1445 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas, 75207
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
White Elephant Saloon
The White Elephant Saloon lay dormant in Fort Worth’s Hells Half Acre. It had been there since the 1890s. Needing a change of scenery, the venue moved into the Historic Stockyards in the 1970s and has been a hot attraction for locals and tourists alike ever since. There’s some lore behind the venue. The original owner, famed gambler Luke Short, is said to have taken part in Fort Worth’s last Old West gunfight against the Sheriff Jim Courtright. There was a reenactment of the gunfight outside of the venue in 2018. People also like to say the place is haunted by the memory and presence of Longhair Jim, one of Fort Worth’s most corrupt lawmen. We’re not too sure about that. What we are sure of is you can grab a damn good bowl of chili and a cold drink at the White Elephant Saloon while taking in the club’s stellar live music selection. The place is now owned by celebrity Fort Worth chef and TV personality Tim Love.
106 E. Exchange Ave., Fort Worth, 76106
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Desert Racer
Taylor Adams
Desert Racer on Lowest Greenville is from local restauranteur, Nick Badovinus (Brass Ram, Town Hearth, National Anthem). We only mention it because the man just knows how to have a good time, trust us. Just drink whatever he's drinking. Here that drink menu is loaded with wine, local beers, frozen cocktails and tequila hi-balls. The food menu is equally strong, filled with seafood and meat tacos, burritos, enchiladas, burgers and more. But it’s the patio you must come for, decorated with motorcycles, artificial turf, cacti, fountains and school desks — and strung with Christmas lights.
1520 Greenville Ave., Dallas
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Alamo Club
Courtesy Alamo Club
The Alamo Club feels like it’s always been a part of Lower Greenville despite having opened in 2019. Owner Austin Rogers can often be found running food, taking orders and sometimes bussing tables at the classy Dallas club. The Alamo Club is billed as a cozy spot fit for any occasion, a quiet date night, an outing with the family or drinks with friends. To make sure patrons don’t go hungry, Rogers enlisted the help of English chef Michale West. The menu is filled with mouth-watering apps for the table and entrees like the Club Cheese Burger ($13) and the Pot Roast Pappardelle ($20).
1919 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Single Wide
Doyle Rader
Boilermaker, Grandpa's Glory
Single Wide is a small bar. Like, really small. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in hospitality. Due to the pandemic, the bar has expanded its outdoor area to include a parkette fenced off on Greenville Avenue. Single Wide offers the same special drinks under the same trailer park aesthetic its Deep Ellum counterpart Double Wide is known for, but Single Wide stands out with its own undying spirit in spite of the constant changes taking place in Lowest Greenville.
2110 Greenville Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Double Wide
Matt Nager
When Deep Ellum starts to feel just a bit too crowded, you don’t have to look too far for an escape. Double Wide, all the way down on Commerce Street, offers a selection of cheap, powerful and/or interesting drinks that all fit in with its trailer park aesthetic. What makes this location so much different than its Greenville Avenue counterpart Single Wide is its outdoor patio with seating made from repurposed toilets and road signs. Double Wide’s music venue (which makes its width double) is located across the patio and host bands from an array of genres.
3510 Commerce St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
The Whippersnapper
This ever-changing concept bar has hole-in-the-wall bones with a pop-culture attitude. Every few months this spot closes down and reopens in a fully committed new theme. The Office, Breaking Bad, Family Guy, Harry Potter and The Simpsons have all been cast. This only works as well as the staff sells it, and though it’s not easy to dress up like Dwight from The Office night after night, we’ll be damned if they don’t nail it every time.
1806 McMillan Ave., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Parliament
Stepping inside Parliament is like traveling back in time to the barrooms and clubs of the early 1900s. With one of the best happy hours in town, Parliament sports a sophisticated selection of craft cocktails, like their Ramos Gin Fizz and over a hundred others. Nestled in the State Thomas Historical District, this Uptown spot is brought to us by Dallas’ drink king Eddie “Lucky” Campbell. Parliament went up in the footprint of the old Four Lounge space on Allen Street. Campbell described his vision for Parliament as a "progressive cocktail lounge," with a mad-scientist style of drink-making. Campbell and his staff have lived up to that vision ever since.
2418 Allen St., Dallas, 75204
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Three Links
Three Links’ slogan is “We Never Sleep.” Take one look at their event calendar, and you too will agree that these people never rest. Three Links advertises low-priced Tullamore Dew all day, every day and serves a wide selection of tap and bottled beers. If you get there just about any night of the week after 7, there will likely be some live music playing. Sometimes there's a cover to get in while the music is playing, but the quality of that music will be well worth the price.
2704 Elm St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Cosmo’s Bar & Lounge
Taylor Adams
Dumplings in broth
Tucked away at the corner of Skillman and Live Oak since 2000 is Cosmo’s, a restaurant and bar boasting no nonsense, one of a kind hospitality. With a ‘60s lounge vibe, specialty cocktails and an eclectic menu with everything from gourmet pizzas to Vietnamese dishes, Cosmo’s has something for everyone. When you’re there, browse through their extensive VHS collection and make a request or step outside to their patio, which feels like a little oasis outside the noise of the city.
1212 Skillman St., Dallas, 75206
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Truth & Alibi
This Deep Ellum speakeasy is accessed through a faux candy storefront. You’ll have to check their Facebook page for the weekly password to get in. The lounge at Truth and Alibi is posh with deep couches and chairs, and if want to make sure if you get a table, make reservations. DJs play a mix of hip hop, some old school. The menu, which is paper but LED-lit (thank you), has classic cocktails like a Sazerac and a Manhattan, both made with Bulleit, which is the whiskey of choice here. They also offer bottle service if you’re ready to go big. Check them out on Thursdays when they host a candy shop burlesque show at 10 p.m. And if anyone asks, you're were at the candy store, which is not only the truth but also your alibi.
2618 Elm St., Dallas, 75226
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Rubber Gloves
Daniel Rodrigue
To say that Rubber Gloves is a fixture in the Denton community would be an incredible understatement. Down a ways from the Square on Sycamore Street where the trains pass, this music venue earned its legendary status booking bands that went on to fill arenas. Since reopening after a two year hiatus, Rubber Gloves has undergone an expansive makeover that included the addition of an outdoor bar and stage. Keeping with its dedication to the local music scene, the cheap drinks are served up by a bar staff of mostly local musicians.
411 E. Sycamore St., Denton, 76205
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Whiskey & Rye
Located inside the Omni Fort Worth Hotel, the Whiskey & Rye is one of those bars that’s dead-serious about its spirits. Don’t get it twisted: With comfy leather chairs and HDTVs airing the game, it’s one of the hippest spots to grab a drink in Fort Worth. Yet its dedication to an outstanding assortment of whiskeys, bourbons and ryes lets patrons know that they’re someplace truly special. Whiskey & Rye’s Texas-chic interior also honors Fort Worth’s legendary past back when outlaws like Sam Bass and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid hung around town. For those hankering for an authentic Lone Star State experience, look no further than this North Texas classic.
1300 Houston St., Fort Worth
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Casablanca
Courtesy of Casablanca
The Silk Road-themed Casablanca sits like an oasis in the heart of the Bishop Arts District, just a few steps off the main artery. Here the mood is a desert oasis with sandy hues and a Moroccan aura. Like any cool desert hangout, its centered on a calming pool of water (which is not for swimming). The menu of small bites stretches from the Middle East to Asia, from smoked edamame to pork and plum dumplings. Casablanca also expanded, adding an adjacent outdoor post called The Palm Bar with grab-and-go cocktails and a sandy lounge area. But if you and your friends like to get loud, get a room: Casanova is a sing easy in the back, with several swank private karaoke lounges for up to 15 guests. Reservations are a must.
200 N. Bishop Ave., No. 113, Dallas, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Bowen House
Courtesy Bowen House
In the historic Dallas home of Ahab Bowen, you can brush with a bit of local history while you slam back a few cold beers. It’s located conveniently in uptown Dallas, in, well, an old house. The drink menu tends toward the upscale, with a classy wine list and an assortment of beers in draft, bottles and cans. All your favorite hard liquors are available, too, so don’t fret if you need something a touch stiffer when you stop by Bowen House. There’s also an assortment of signature cocktails. If you’re feeling equal parts literary and spicy, for instance, you could try out the “For Whom the Bell Pepper Tolls,” a mix including tequila, Cynar Amaro, lime and bell pepper.
2614 Boll St, Dallas, 75204
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Revelers Hall
Courtesy Revelers Hall
In a corner of Bishop Arts, Revelers Hall is a time capsule from 1920s New Orleans. The venue’s house band, a big band led by Kevin Butler, entertains patrons with the energy of Mardi Gras, creating a mood so festive it just dares you to take your top off to collect imaginary beads. Don’t try it. Do try the items on the menu, which include flatbreads, cheese boards and charcuterie. The lively, bombastic sounds of brass will invite you to dance well down the street. Revelers Hall is also a favored joint of legends Shelley Carroll and Liz Mikel. It’s not for people looking to enjoy a boring, quiet beer. You can stay home for that.
412 N. Bishop Ave., Dallas, 75208
The 100 Best Bars in DFW 2022
Mike's Gemini Twin
Susie Oszustowicz
The Cedars bar is often labeled a dive bar, but there’s nothing shabby about Mike’s. Sure, the name sounds like a hard lemonade drink inspired by an early 2000s girl band, but Mike’s Gemini Twin is a refreshing cross of swanky and unpretentious. The bar has pool tables and a mystery stripper pole that’s roped off and not to be used — no matter how tempting and how gifted of a pole dancer you believe yourself to be after a few glasses of Champagne. Unintentionally, the pole also serves as a perfect symbol of the bar’s delightfully contradictory ambiance. It’s no wonder it’s a magnet for scenesters.
1906 S. Hardwood St., Dallas
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