Ah, Dallas. The sprawling metropolis where cowboy boots meet cocktail shakers. There are steakhouses where you can order whiskey neat, rooftop bars with skyline views, and speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors. Dallas will always have its honky-tonks and high-rises—and its ambitious newcomers—but everyone can agree it’s home to a vibrant cocktail scene. Here are the bars where you should be sipping.
NELSON’S Neighborhood Grill
$$ | (469) 372-0410 | WEBSITE
NELSON’S is the rare neighborhood grill that you’d actually want to spend all evening at. In the afternoon they make better deviled eggs than most appetizer menus and some of Dallas’s best ribs, followed by a fantastic ribeye and bright, snappy salads at dinner. And once the weekend rolls around, the welcoming dining room is the perfect place for a laidback family meal.
It’s never too crowded, bottles of beer and cocktails are reasonably priced, and all of NELSON’S homey grill-leaning entrées—like tender catfish and crispy shrimp—are easily shareable.
Beverley’s Bistro & Bar
$$$ | (214) 915-8840 | WEBSITE
Beverley’s is our favorite cocktail bar in Dallas, but really, this charming bistro would shine in any neighborhood. It’s the ideal middle ground of fancy, impeccably crafted cocktails (you can get an impressive cherry on top mocktail if you want) and crowd-pleasing items like meatballs and breakfast sandwiches, you might not ask for a serious cocktail menu as not to look like a novice.
Bar seats alternate between couples celebrating special occasions and groups who look like they just got back from weekend brunch enjoying seasonal burrata. The servers, especially Arden and Kosta, provide that attentive service everyone praises, and the owner ensures the warm atmosphere makes every guest feel welcome. With thoughtful gestures like complimentary sparkling rosé for birthdays, it’s a must-visit for fantastic dining experiences.
Operators Club
$$ | (469) 389-2121 | WEBSITE
Of course the Bear here is spectacular (thick-cut bread with prime rib, caramelized onions, and a fried egg that’s cooked just right), but this laid-back spot also serves excellent grilled chicken and a customizable pasta zepp that’s heavy on flavor. There’s a comfortable atmosphere with inviting seating and fantastic drink specials, and they’ve also created a space where couples on dates always seem to be sipping Irish Maids and relaxing.
The aesthetic is on point throughout, making it perfect for sports events or casual nights out.
Apothecary
$$$ | (469) 949-4234 | WEBSITE
Apothecary might not be the first speakeasy to serve a fish eggs and chips dish, but it’s easily the most memorable. This hidden gem from the creative mixology team folds smoked salmon tea sandwiches, beef cheek tacos, and that surprising fish eggs and chips into an eclectic menu and punches them up with a generous crème fraîche onion dip and crispy fries. Romantic nights are big here, but the small plates are best enjoyed ASAP in the cozy, chic interior.
The unique ‘Kraut Cake’ dessert tastes like a dark chocolate adventure wrapped in sauerkraut (a good thing), while the ‘Tea Party’ offering is dusted in sweet cookie charm. It’s all good, but the crispy fish eggs and chips might be our favorite, at least when eaten hot with that dip. As a bonus, the cocktail passport promises even more reasons to return.
Perch Bistro and Bar
$$$ | (214) 764-3334 | WEBSITE
For a cocktail that feels like a cozy hug in a glass, head to Perch Bistro and Bar. The drinks at this lively airport-adjacent spot are nearly as welcoming as the staff, so you don’t get any of the loud music distraction until you’re settled in—but we don’t mind because the friendly service is superb. Perch crafts its cocktails with a mixture of elegance and charm, which delivers the atmosphere you want from a neighborhood bar.
If you want something with less buzz, they also host mahjong nights and private parties upstairs, and a Tiny Tini Tuesday with extra fun.
KAIYO DALLAS
$$$ | (214) 484-1888 | WEBSITE
People crowd into KAIYO DALLAS like a school of fish, which, given that it’s a sushi bar in Lower Greenville, feels just right. Guests here love to order the Nigiri Flight and snack on creative pieces like salmon with gochuchang or toro topped with caviar. If raw fish isn’t your style, there are also solid vegetarian options like mushroom and eggplant nigiri. Whether you pop in for cocktails and small plates or a full omakase experience, this is one of the neighborhood’s most fun spots.
Nonna
$$$ | (214) 521-1800 | WEBSITE
Nonna is an Italian cocktail bar with all the elements for a sophisticated, borderline enchanting evening. There’s a surprisingly spacious interior despite the small shopfront, moody lighting that sets an intimate vibe, and a bustling bar area where you can watch bartenders craft drinks over a spread of authentic dishes: standout clam pizza, recommended appetizers like the olives, and cherry pistachio desserts that are unique treats.
Portions are generous so we like coming here with a group to sample as much as possible, including the hit-or-miss pasta dishes. That dessert alone will turn your night around.
The Vintage Cocktails and Kitchen
$$ | (214) 792-9944 | WEBSITE
The Vintage Cocktails and Kitchen is the rare cocktail bar restaurant where you’ll actually want to have a full dinner, as evidenced by the crowds that have filled its warm interior with interesting chandeliers and old-world decor for years. Service is consistently excellent, the menu is diverse with incredible flavors, and no dish costs more than $18.
Prioritize the Texas Twinkies, with jalapeños stuffed with brisket and cream cheese that have more layers than a well-aged whiskey, and the filet, cooked so consistently well it’ll instantly satisfy any steak craving. The Neapolitan margherita pizza is a good choice, and the cocktails are highly praised in this friendly atmosphere.
This hidden gem in East Dallas offers everything delicious, from the tenderloin crostini to the bacon burger, with a welcoming environment perfect for events or a night out.
D.L. Mack’s
$$ | (214) 217-0036 | WEBSITE
This Dallas cocktail bar offers comfort with a capital C. There are cozy booths and warm lighting throughout the dining area that make you feel right at home, and the atmosphere uses rustic wood accents and soft jazz in a way that reminds us of a neighborhood favorite. Plus, the food is just satisfying. Thin-crust pizzas come with that perfect crispy bite. Chicken tenders are golden and perfectly seasoned.
Our favorite dishes here are the salads, though—don’t miss the Fifth Avenue with kale, avocado, and grilled salmon. Come for the cocktails (but not just the cocktails), but also for casual dinners with friends who want to eat something consistently great.
Kessaku
$$$$ | (214) 239-9999 | WEBSITE
Even though this sushi bar sits high above the bustling Dallas streets surrounded by office towers and hotels, it still has the magic of a special night out—just recreated on the 50th floor with breathtaking panoramic views and a sleek, modern interior. There are cocktails and small plates at the bar, but Kessaku most deserves your attention as a dinner destination, especially for their standout salmon roll.
It’s built with fresh, high-quality fish and a perfect balance of flavors, and a generous portion size. Try the sushi tower, too—even dreamy evenings should end with a bit of everything.
