Dallas, Texas, boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, and finding the perfect bar can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide highlights 22 of the best bars in Dallas, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you crave craft cocktails, a lively atmosphere, or a cozy pub experience, this list has something for everyone. We’ve categorized the bars to make your selection easier, ensuring you find the ideal spot for your next night out.
Upscale Cocktail Lounges: Where Elegance Meets Expertise
These establishments offer sophisticated cocktails, impeccable service, and an atmosphere perfect for a special occasion or a refined night out.
1. The Cedars Social: Known for its innovative cocktails and lively atmosphere, The Cedars Social offers a unique blend of upscale and casual. Their outdoor patio is a popular spot, especially during warmer months. Their signature cocktails often feature locally sourced ingredients.
2. Midnight Rambler: This speakeasy-style bar hides behind an unassuming door, offering a dimly lit, intimate setting. Expect expertly crafted cocktails and a sophisticated clientele. Their menu changes seasonally, reflecting the freshest ingredients available.
3. The Usual: With its stylish décor and extensive cocktail list, The Usual is a popular choice for those seeking a refined drinking experience. Their bartenders are highly skilled and knowledgeable, able to tailor drinks to individual preferences.
Dive Bars: No-Frills Fun and Local Favorites
Dive bars offer a more casual, unpretentious experience, often characterized by cheap drinks, a loyal local following, and a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Double Wide: This quirky bar is a Dallas institution, known for its unique atmosphere and affordable drinks. The decor is eclectic, and the vibe is undeniably fun. It's a great place to meet locals and enjoy a relaxed evening.
5. The Goat: This neighborhood bar is a favorite among locals for its friendly atmosphere and extensive beer selection. The simple decor and lack of pretense make it a welcoming spot for anyone looking for a casual drink.
6. Adair's Saloon: A true Dallas icon, Adair's Saloon has been a fixture in the city for over a century. It's a historic dive bar with a strong sense of character and a loyal following.
Craft Beer Havens: A Celebration of Hops and Malt
Dallas has a flourishing craft beer scene, with numerous bars dedicated to showcasing local and international brews.
7. Lakewood Brewing Company: This popular brewery offers a wide variety of its own craft beers, plus a comfortable setting to enjoy them in. They often host events and live music.
8. Community Beer Company: Another local favorite, Community Beer Company, offers a selection of their own craft beers along with a rotating selection of guest taps.
9. Peticolas Brewing Company: Peticolas is known for its award-winning beers and a welcoming taproom.
Wine Bars: Sipping and Savoring
For wine enthusiasts, Dallas offers several sophisticated wine bars with curated selections and knowledgeable staff.
10. Sixty Vines: This upscale wine bar boasts an extensive wine list and a sophisticated atmosphere. They also offer a delicious menu of small plates to pair with your wine.
11. Pints & Quarts: A more casual wine bar, Pints & Quarts, offers a diverse selection of wines by the glass and bottle. They also feature a selection of craft beers and snacks.
12. Enoteca: Known for its extensive wine list and knowledgeable staff, Enoteca offers a refined wine-drinking experience in a stylish setting.
Sports Bars: Catching the Game in Style
For sports fans, these bars provide a lively atmosphere to watch your favorite teams in action.
13. The Rustic: This sprawling venue combines a restaurant and bar with live music and a great atmosphere for watching games.
14. HG Sply Co.: This popular gastropub features a large selection of craft beers and a menu of elevated bar food. It's also a great place to catch a game.
15. Lockhart Smokehouse: While primarily known for its barbecue, Lockhart Smokehouse also has a lively bar area, ideal for watching sports.
Unique and Thematic Bars: Stepping Outside the Box
These bars offer unique experiences and themes, adding a special element to your night out.
16. Thompson Hotel's Bar: This stylish bar boasts stunning views of the city and an upscale atmosphere.
17. Monarch: Located in the trendy Bishop Arts District, Monarch is known for its unique cocktails and stylish décor.
18. Hide: This speakeasy-style bar is hidden behind a bookcase, offering a mysterious and intimate experience.
19. Klyde Warren Park: While not strictly a bar, Klyde Warren Park offers several food and beverage vendors, creating a vibrant and social atmosphere.
20. Trinity Groves: Similar to Klyde Warren Park, Trinity Groves is an outdoor entertainment district with a variety of bars and restaurants, each with a unique character.
Rooftop Bars: Drinks with a View
Enjoy panoramic views of the Dallas skyline while sipping your drink.
21. Happiest Hour: This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city and a lively atmosphere.
22. High-Fidelity: Another rooftop bar with amazing city views, High-Fidelity provides a more sophisticated experience.
This guide provides a starting point for exploring the diverse bar scene in Dallas. Each bar offers a unique experience, ensuring you'll find the perfect spot for your next night out. Remember to check each bar's website or social media for their hours of operation, dress code, and any special events. Cheers to exploring the best bars in Dallas!
