Best of 19 bars in Dallas
Dallas, a vibrant city in Texas, is known for its lively nightlife. Among the various entertainment options, bars in Dallas hold a special place. These establishments offer a wide range of experiences, from craft cocktails and local beers to live music and sports viewing. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the bars in Dallas provide a welcoming atmosphere for socializing and unwinding.
- 1. Happiest Hour
- 2. Frankie's Downtown
- 3. Dot's Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard
- 4. The Woolworth
- 5. Parliament
- 6. The Standard Pour
- 7. Lee Harvey's
- 8. The Ivy Tavern
- 9. Double Wide Bar
- 10. HIDE
- 11. The Grapevine Bar
- 12. Bowen House
- 13. The Goat
- 14. Will Call Bar
- 15. Tiny Victories
- 16. Midnight Rambler
- 17. Willie's Lounge
- 18. The Cockpit Bar
- 19. Bernie's at Preston Tower
1. Happiest Hour
Over 70 HD TVs for sports viewing

Happiest Hour, a bar and cocktail spot in Dallas, has a rating of 3.6 out of 5, based on 129 customer reviews. The bar, which offers a sports-bar atmosphere, is open from 4 PM to 12 AM and is located on 2616 Olive St. When I visited Happiest Hour, I was pleased with my experience. After hearing positive reviews, I was eager to try it out for myself and was not disappointed. The drinks are strong, and the food is hot and flavorful. The dip trio is a great starter option.
Moving on to the highlights of my visit to Happiest Hour, the drinks stood out as a strong point. They were generously poured and had a good balance of flavors. Additionally, the food was excellent. The dip trio, in particular, was a great choice to start the meal. It provided a variety of flavors and textures and was a good size for sharing. The staff at Happiest Hour was also friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive atmosphere of the bar. Overall, my first experience at Happiest Hour was a great one.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
- Social Gatherings
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2. Frankie's Downtown
Handcrafted Cocktails, Romantic Atmosphere, Rooftop Dining

Frankie's Downtown, a popular spot in Dallas, was named the Best Sports Bar and Best Cocktail Bar in the city for 2021. D Magazine praised Frankie's for its unique atmosphere, describing it as hip but not pretentious, and a true neighborhood bar, standing out in Dallas's bar scene.
At Frankie's Downtown, sports fans and cocktail connoisseurs alike will find exactly what they're looking for. The bar's recognition as both the Best Sports Bar and Best Cocktail Bar in Dallas speaks to its ability to cater to a wide range of tastes and interests. Whether you're looking to catch the big game or enjoy a well-crafted drink, Frankie's Downtown is the place to be.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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3. Dot's Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard
Sprawling outdoor space, dog-friendly patio

John Williams, known for his impressive work, has helped create another hit - a bar located in Dallas that offers a taste of the vibrant scene in Denton. This establishment is renowned for its incredible selection of beers, with a particular focus on craft beer that is sure to impress fans of the genre.
In addition to its fantastic beer offerings, the bar boasts a spacious outdoor courtyard that provides the perfect setting for a relaxing evening. With plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the fresh air, it's an ideal spot to unwind and soak up the atmosphere. Whether you're a beer aficionado or simply looking for a great place to spend an evening, this bar is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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4. The Woolworth
Historical building, rooftop bar, live music

The Woolworth is a discrete bar with a lot of attitude, suitable for impressing someone or enjoying a low-key evening with great cocktails and food. The bar has an excellent atmosphere, and the views from the patio are stunning, making it a highly recommended spot. The exceptional service is worth noting, with the waitstaff being very attentive to all needs, even providing great tables outside if requested.
The food served at The Woolworth is phenomenal, emphasizing the overall positive experience. The waiter was helpful and kind, aiding in the selection of food, which turned out to be exceptional. The dishes are delicious, and the high-quality food complements the excellent ambiance, making the Woolworth a top choice for a night out.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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5. Parliament
Historic building, renowned chef, fine dining experience

Cocktail culture is thriving in Dallas, with one standout establishment offering a game-changing menu and exceptional talent behind the bar. This neighborhood cocktail bar is situated in the vibrant Uptown area, providing a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for patrons.
The cocktail list at this establishment is advanced and impressive, showcasing the talent of the bartenders and the quality of the ingredients used. The bar team's skills and creativity are truly astonishing, elevating the cocktail experience for visitors.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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6. The Standard Pour
Rooftop patio, handcrafted cocktails, distinctive decor

This establishment, which seems to function more as a bar than a restaurant, is a popular spot in Dallas. However, arriving for brunch can be less than pleasant due to the lack of parking and evidence of a previous night of partying. The food served is satisfactory, although the drip coffee is unremarkable.
Despite the issues with brunch, this establishment remains a favorite spot of mine. The drinks are consistently well-mixed, and the food arrives quickly and hot. The service is commendable, especially given how busy it can get. What makes this restaurant/lounge/cave stand out is its consistency in delivering a great experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
7. Lee Harvey's
Outdoor games, pet-friendly patio

Lee Harvey's is a well-known dive bar located in Dallas, Texas. Its spacious yard, equipped with picnic tables and a live music stage, contributes to a cozy and pleasant atmosphere. After visiting a different bar for a Bachelorette viewing party, we sought a more relaxed and laid-back environment. Fortunately, we stumbled upon Lee Harvey's, which turned out to be a highlight of our time in Dallas.
The dive bar offers an escape from the typical crowded and noisy scenes of other bars. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a friendly bartender and welcoming patrons, making us feel at ease. The bar's vintage decor, local beers, and lively music created an authentic Dallas experience. We enjoyed our time so much that we visited Lee Harvey's multiple times during our stay in Dallas. Overall, the bar served as a perfect hideaway, allowing us to unwind and enjoy the local culture.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
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8. The Ivy Tavern
Spacious patio, extensive wine list, and late-night menu

The drink prices at this establishment are appealingly affordable, making it a popular choice among locals. But what truly sets it apart is the exceptional customer service. The staff go above and beyond to ensure a positive experience for their patrons, a level of kindness that is not commonly found in most bars.
This establishment is a small, local bar that holds a special place in the hearts of its patrons. Its charm lies in its cozy and intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The back patio is especially beloved, serving as the perfect spot to relax and unwind, especially during nice weather.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Dinner
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9. Double Wide Bar
Pet-friendly patio, diverse events

The Double Wide bar, found on Commerce St's outskirts in Deep Ellum, is hard to miss with its literal double wide trailer setup and a large rotating Tornado on top. The trailer park-themed bar embraces its redneck aesthetic with pride, boasting a classic 20th-century interior design filled with velvet paintings of half-naked women, wall-mounted fish, and taxidermy. Inside, patrons can find a few small bathrooms, a jukebox, a long bar, and some plastic-covered furniture, spread across a surprisingly large space.
When it comes to the atmosphere, Double Wide Bar offers a lively and engaging experience, thanks to its disco and house music that creates an inviting ambiance. This down-to-earth charm appeals to visitors, who enjoy a drink menu filled with potent options. One such drink, the Yoo-hoo Yeeha, combines strong flavors for a tasty and popular choice among patrons.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
10. HIDE
Intimate live music venue and restaurant

A visit was made to a popular establishment, based on positive Yelp reviews, and it resulted in a great experience. The service received mixed reviews from others, but the visit was marked by exceptional service, particularly during the happy hour.
The bar offered fantastic cocktails, and the bartender, Chris, was friendly and skilled. It was clear why the establishment won the title of best bar in Dallas for consecutive years, thanks to their top-notch drink offerings.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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11. The Grapevine Bar
Spacious patio, vintage decor, rotating art exhibits

The venue in question is a fantastic bar that I had the pleasure of visiting multiple times during my latest trip. The atmosphere is welcoming and enjoyable, leading me to purchase a T-shirt to remember my time there. I am grateful for the exceptional service provided by Morgan, Melissa, and Rob, who contributed to making my experience memorable once again.
I visited this establishment with my girlfriend, who is a frequent visitor, as part of her birthday celebration. The staff members were incredibly kind, and the outdoor seating area was a unique and interesting addition to the bar. The experience was likened to "Cheers on Acid," with Meghan and Rob crafting excellent drinks and providing a very warm welcome. I eagerly await my next opportunity to visit.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
12. Bowen House
Seasonal menus and locally sourced ingredients

Bowen House is a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and late-night dining, known for its delicious food and good cocktails. The restaurant tends to get busy, so making a reservation is recommended. It's a nice place for special dates or a romantic evening, with a warm ambiance and attentive staff. Prices are around $9.00 for cocktails and $16-20 for entrees.
The expertly crafted cocktails at Bowen House are a highlight, with their Negroni being a standout. The menu features delicious dishes such as Chilean sea bass and beet and fig salad. If you plan to visit, be sure to call ahead to reserve a table, as there may be a wait. The restaurant offers a great dining experience, making it a must-visit spot.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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13. The Goat
Unique goat-centric menu items

The Goat is a restaurant that provides excellent drinks and menu options, known for its sophisticated and classy atmosphere. It is a frequent gathering place for groups, with food served promptly and at the right temperature. The restaurant caters to a mature and fashionable crowd, offering a carefully selected drink and cocktail menu.
In addition to its dining experience, The Goat is also well-known for its live music, which features blues and rock on certain nights, and karaoke on others. The bar has a grungy and lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for those who enjoy music and a bustling environment.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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14. Will Call Bar
Intimate live music events, knowledgeable bartenders

The establishment features a diverse mix of music, including both live performances and DJ sets. The music is highly regarded for its successful balance between mellow and high-energy sounds.
In addition to the music, the venue offers reasonable prices, entertaining staff, and a vibrant atmosphere. The food and drink options, such as pickle brined wings, Philly cheesesteak, Buffalo chicken sandwich, and bacon cheddar fries, are all delicious and contribute to the overall positive experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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15. Tiny Victories
Seasonal menu, local ingredients

Tiny Victories is a popular bar in Dallas, known for its exceptional service and great drink recommendations. The bartenders, including JC, contribute to the chill atmosphere that makes visitors feel at ease and have a great time. In addition to offering excellent drinks and advice on local activities and evening spots, Tiny Victories has been recognized as one of the best bars in Dallas for 2024.
Every Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m., Tiny Victories offers half-priced cocktails. Their cocktail menu features classics such as the 1916 Aviation with gin, Luxardo Maraschino, creme de violette, and lemon. For those looking to try something different, the bar also offers a $5 house shot called Spring Break '99, made with strawberry and vodka. Whether you're looking for a great spot for drinks or a date, Tiny Victories is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Affordable Nightlife
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16. Midnight Rambler
Exquisite cocktails, craft beers, lively atmosphere, cozy ambience

Midnight Ramble, a new basement bar located in the Joule hotel, has recently opened for a soft launch. The entrance to the bar is through the hotel lobby, where guests should take a hard left to find a set of service stairs leading to the bar. The decor in Midnight Ramble is tastefully done, although the bar stools are described as a bit unusual. The cocktail menu is impressive, but the overall menu is printed in a very small font, which may be difficult to read for some patrons.
Despite the small font, the Charcuterie board at Midnight Ramble is a standout option, featuring delicious meat. The location of the bar is exceptional, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Midnight Ramble is situated in the basement of the Joule hotel, making it a convenient stop for those planning on dining at CBD Provisions, which is located upstairs. Guests can look forward to a fantastic and welcoming ambiance at this new hidden gem in the heart of the city.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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17. Willie's Lounge
Spacious outdoor seating area with a view of the Trinity River

Willie's Lounge is a enjoyable bar that successfully combines a relaxed atmosphere with lively energy. One of the highlights is the excellent jukebox, which adds to the overall ambiance. Additionally, there is always a side table stocked with various food items for customers to snack on.
The bartenders at Willie's Lounge are truly outstanding, including Jessica, Estrella (also known as Star), Ashlyn, Alisa, Mandy, and Gigi. Their exceptional skills go beyond just mixing drinks, as they have established themselves as friends and trusted individuals to patrons. Their dedication and friendly demeanor contribute significantly to the lounge's positive atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
18. The Cockpit Bar
Rooftop terrace with skyline views, creative mixology

The Cockpit Bar is a hidden gem located in a strip mall off Marsh Lane in Dallas. It has a welcoming atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd, making it a popular spot for regulars and newcomers alike. The bar is known for its affordable prices, friendly staff, and a relaxed environment that provides a perfect setting to unwind after work.
The bar's exterior glows with a neon yellow light, inviting patrons to step inside and enjoy a cold beer or a 'bring your own' liquor. The wood-paneled interior and cozy atmosphere create a homey feel that makes customers feel welcome and comfortable. The wine list features a selection of red, white and pink wines, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers. Overall, the Cockpit Bar is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy a drink in the company of good people.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
19. Bernie's at Preston Tower

6211 West Northwest Highway, on the first floor of Preston Tower Bernie's at Preston Tower is the ideal place to land before or after dining at any of the restaurants mentioned above. But this is not your typical modern bar. Since opening just a few years ago, Bernie's has offered visitors a moody, intimate experience: a sense of old-school glitz from a less demanding era. It is opulent but with a low-key atmosphere, where visitors can relax, enjoy conversation and enjoy high-end cocktails. There is also a welcome sense of whimsy, as Bernie's is considered a private club and, to become a member, all one needs to do is pass a driver's license. If you're a little hungry, you'll find small bites in the form of flatbread pizza.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Hidden Gems