Top Bars in Dallas Recommended by a Local

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening out in Dallas, guided by a former local who knows the scene like the back of their hand. In “Top Bars in Dallas Recommended by a Local,” Allie Lebos crafts a must-read list of 15 standout spots, each with its unique flair and specialty drinks, as featured by Tasting Table. Whether you’re captivated by the artistry of cocktails at Atlas Bishop Arts, the historic charm of The Mansion Bar, or the rooftop vistas from HG Sply Co., this guide will navigate you through the city’s diverse and vibrant bar scene, ensuring each visit is a memorable one. Have you ever wondered where to find the best bars in Dallas? If you’re looking for a night out in this vibrant city, you’re in for a treat. As a former local resident, I know a thing or two about the top spots to grab a drink and enjoy the unique ambiance that each bar has to offer. So, let’s dive into the top bars in Dallas, each one recommended through personal experience, friends’ recommendations, and trusted online reviews.

Top Bars in Dallas Recommended by a Local

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Apothecary

Location: Knox/Henderson Neighborhood

Nestled in the stylish Knox/Henderson neighborhood, Apothecary offers a speakeasy experience that transports you back in time.

Type: Speakeasy

This hidden gem is all about mystery and class. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from the ’20s with its clandestine entry and vintage décor.

Highlights

The unique cocktails are the heart of Apothecary. The standout drinks here are the APO Dirty Martini and the intriguingly named Peanut Noir.

Tip

Considering its exclusive ambiance, reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot.

Hide

Location: Knox/Henderson Area

Right next to Apothecary, you’ll find Hide, a bar that stands out with its exceptional rooftop views and creative drink menu.

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Type: Bar and Restaurant

Hide is the perfect blend of a casual bar and an upscale restaurant, offering a dynamic experience whether you’re looking to drink or dine.

Highlights

Explore their innovative cocktail categories like “Spirited”, “Comforting”, “Brave”, and “Refreshing.” Each one offers a unique taste adventure.

Recommended Drinks

  • Blind Date
  • La Loba
  • Melon Drama

Bowen House

Location: Uptown

Located in the vibrant Uptown area, Bowen House is a Victorian-style bar that brings a touch of old-world charm into the modern bar scene.

Type: Victorian-Style Bar

The bar’s Victorian aesthetic creates a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed evening out.

Highlights

Enjoy custom cocktails crafted to your taste, with a spirit menu that’s as easy to read as it is comprehensive. Don’t forget to try out the delectable bites like fried brie and tuna tacos.

Recommended Drinks

  • Golden Hour
  • Public Scandal

Parliament

Location: Allen St

Head over to Allen St, where you’ll find Parliament, a romantic, dimly-lit bar that is ideal for a cozy night out.

Type: Romantic, Dim-Lit Bar

Parliament’s low lighting and intimate setting create an enchanting environment for a memorable night.

Highlights

Boasting over 100 cocktails, this spot is a mixologist’s paradise. Be aware of the dress code to ensure you fit in with the classy vibe.

Recommended Drinks

  • Parliament Royale
  • Butterscotch Flip

Top Bars in Dallas Recommended by a Local

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Monkey Bar at Mi Cocina

Location: Highland Park Village

If you’re in the mood for a local favorite, head to Highland Park Village and discover the Monkey Bar at Mi Cocina.

Type: Local Hotspot

The Monkey Bar is nestled above the famous Mi Cocina restaurant, offering a small lounge area and limited seating for an intimate experience.

Highlights

Don’t miss the iconic Mambo Taxi margarita. Pair your drinks with their delicious chips, guacamole, and queso for the perfect night out.

HG Sply Co.

Location: Greenville Ave

For those who love rooftop views, HG Sply Co. on Greenville Ave is the place to be.

Type: Rooftop Bar

This rooftop bar offers comfortable seating and a stunning view, perfect for watching the sunset.

Highlights

The evening ambiance is enhanced by charming string lights, making it a picturesque setting for any gathering.

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Recommended Drinks

  • HG Mule
  • HG’s Guava Marg

Babou’s

Location: Hotel Swexan

Indulge in a touch of luxury at Babou’s, located within Hotel Swexan.

Type: Upscale Club/Lounge

The upscale décor and classy ambiance make Babou’s an elegant choice for a night out.

Highlights

This spot features a dress code, bottle service, and live jazz on Thursdays, elevating your experience to a new level of sophistication.

Food

Treat yourself to gourmet snacks like lobster steam buns and American sliders.

The Mansion Bar

Location: Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Step into a world of elegance at The Mansion Bar in the historic Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek.

Type: Historic Jazz Bar

This bar’s historical significance and jazz vibes make it a timeless choice for a night out.

Highlights

With an extensive cocktail list and a library-like ambiance, this venue is perfect for a classy evening.

Recommended Drinks

  • Eclipsis
  • Strawberry Roan

Food

Delight your palate with options like Wagyu beef tartare and tuna cigars.

Tina’s Continental

Location: Deep Ellum

For a retro experience, head to Tina’s Continental in Deep Ellum.

Type: Retro Bar

The sleek design and build-your-own martini menu make Tina’s a standout spot.

Highlights

Create your own dirty martini with blue cheese-stuffed olives or choose from their classic cocktails like the Paloma and Hemingway Daiquiri.

Atlas Bishop Arts

Location: Bishop Arts District

Last but not least, explore Atlas Bishop Arts in the vibrant Bishop Arts District.

Type: Artistic Cocktail Bar

With cocktails inspired by global cities and a focus on innovative ingredients, Atlas offers a unique drinking experience.

Highlights

Their menu transports you around the world, making every sip a new adventure.

Recommended Drinks

  • Peruvian-inspired Pisco Sour
  • French Sidecar

General Bar Scene in Dallas

Drink Variety

Dallas’ bar scene offers a wide range of options, from craft cocktails and highballs to old fashioneds and effervescent drinks. Whether you’re into classic concoctions or experimental mixes, you’re bound to find something that suits your taste.

Themes

The city’s diversity is reflected in its bar themes. You can find everything from hidden speakeasies and romantic spots to rooftop lounges and historic venues. Each bar has a unique theme that sets it apart and caters to different moods.

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Atmosphere

The atmosphere of Dallas bars varies widely. Whether you prefer a vibey, dimly lit setting or a vibrant, social rooftop hangout, there’s something for every occasion.

Here’s a Quick Recap

Bar Location Type Highlights Recommended Drinks Tips
Apothecary Knox/Henderson Speakeasy Unique cocktails, vintage décor APO Dirty Martini, Peanut Noir Reservations recommended
Hide Knox/Henderson Bar and Restaurant Rooftop views, creative cocktail categories Blind Date, La Loba, Melon Drama Perfect for drink or dine
Bowen House Uptown Victorian-style Bar Custom cocktails, Victorian vibes Golden Hour, Public Scandal Try the fried brie and tuna tacos
Parliament Allen St Romantic, dim-lit Over 100 cocktails, dress code Parliament Royale, Butterscotch Flip Ideal for a cozy night
Monkey Bar Highland Park Village Local Hotspot Mambo Taxi margarita, small lounge Chips, guacamole, queso Limited seating
HG Sply Co. Greenville Ave Rooftop Bar Rooftop views, string lights ambiance HG Mule, HG’s Guava Marg Great for sunsets
Babou’s Hotel Swexan Upscale Club/Lounge Swanky décor, bottle service Lobster steam buns, sliders Live jazz on Thursdays
The Mansion Bar Rosewood Mansion Historic Jazz Bar Library ambiance, extensive cocktails Eclipsis, Strawberry Roan Be sure to try Wagyu beef tartare
Tina’s Continental Deep Ellum Retro Bar Build-your-own martini menu Custom dirty martini, Paloma, Hemingway daiquiri Sleek design
Atlas Bishop Arts Bishop Arts District Artistic Cocktail Bar Cocktails inspired by global cities Pisco Sour, French Sidecar Perfect for innovative drinks

No matter what kind of night you’re looking for, Dallas has a bar that will exceed your expectations. So grab your friends, make your reservations, and start exploring the top bars in Dallas – you won’t be disappointed!

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