The 5 Best Dallas Bars

Mariano’s Hacienda

Texas is the birthplace of Tex-Mex cuisine, and, of course, the obvious drink pairing for a classic Tex-Mex dish is a frozen margarita—which can be found in almost all of the best Dallas bars. Home to the first ever frozen margarita machine, the iconic Mariano’s Hacienda is a beloved slice of Tex-Mex history.

When owner Mariano Martinez was unable to keep up with frozen drink orders, he devised a frozen margarita machine based on the Slurpee machine he observed at the local 7-11. His first prototype, rigged from an old soft serve ice cream machine back in 1971, now sits in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.  Mariano’s boasts ample outdoor seating with misters and fans to keep you cool in the brutal Texas heat, making it one the best Dallas bar patios. Chips with your choice of salsa are complimentary for all patrons.

Meddlesome Moth

If you prefer a Dallas bar that puts brews over booze, the 42 beers on tap and another 130 bottled varieties available at the Meddlesome Moth are sure to satisfy even the most discerning beer snob. If you’re a novice, the onsite cicerone (beer sommelier) at this stylish Dallas bar can help you make a truly memorable selection. The Moth also serves up a contemporary twist on pub favorites like rabbit pot pie and a sophisticated version of “bangers and mash” featuring homemade buffalo sausage and pureed turnips.

Lee Harvey’s

Looking for the best Dallas dive bar? Lee Harvey’s, a converted house turned bar, is a traditional Southern juke joint featuring a ton of outdoor seating  (at picnic tables) and live music on weekends. The food and drinks are cheap; the vibe is relaxed and unpretentious; and even dogs are welcome to join the party. This one of the best Dallas bars for burgers and extra strong drinks. 

The Library Bar

For a more sophisticated evening in a Dallas bar, complete with fancy cocktails and live jazz, try the classy Library Bar. Located in the historic Warwick Melrose hotel, The Library Bar pays homage to days gone by with its sumptuous dark wood-paneled walls, chandeliers, overstuffed red leather chairs, and, of course, antique books. The Library bar has an extensive cocktail menu with some of the best signature martinis in Dallas.

Adair’s Saloon

Finally, no trip to Dallas is complete without a visit to an authentic honky tonk bar. You know the one with graffiti covering the walls and tables, saw dust on floor, and a country western band playing their hearts out on a small stage? That would be Adair’s, hands down one of the best Dallas bars. Grab a plastic pitcher of Lone Star Beer and hit the dance floor for one of the best Dallas bar nights ever.

Now that you’re an expert on the best Dallas bars, check out the best Dallas clubs.