The 13 Best Cocktail Bars in Dallas

This Lower Greenville cocktail bar moved from its original location in Deep Ellum a couple of years ago. The space is even bigger now and includes a rooftop patio. The drinks menu is still fantastic with 25 signature creations. From the vodka-based Green Tara (with Jasmine green tea and pear) to a tequila, pineapple cinnamon, lemon, and egg white mixture called the Day Walker, there is plenty to try.

This iconic Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek hotel bar has been serving killer cocktails for years. Sit by the fireplace or at the bar and enjoy one of several signature drinks like The Texas Margarita, The Mansion G&T, and The Mansion Manhattan.

This Lower Greenville bar from the owners of Rye debuted in 2021. A must-visit to try more experimental cocktails, Apothecary is an avant-garde style spot. The atmosphere is dark and mysterious to complement the creative drink menu — which is vast. To narrow things down, the menu is divided into sections ranging from “Over the Counter” to “Prescription” to “Illicit Elixers.” Basically, simple to adventurous. One of the most elaborate is the $500 Mariinskyi Palace, but most others are around $17.

One of the coolest spots to grab a drink in Dallas, this subterranean bar is located inside The Joule hotel. Led by Gabe Sanchez (who also owns the new bar, Saint Valentine, in East Dallas), the cocktail menu features drinks that rotate seasonally and feature themes.

Situated in a historic Victorian-style house in Uptown, this cocktail bar is a Dallas favorite for drinks and dinner. When ordering cocktails, you really can’t go wrong as the bartenders here are pros. Drinks rotate seasonally so it always seems like there is something new to try.

This State Thomas neighborhood bar has been serving up stellar cocktails in Uptown since 2014. One of the best things about this spot is that they have a liberal happy hour. All day on Mondays, from 5 pm to 8 pm Tuesday through Saturday, and any time it rains, you can get drinks like a Mai Tai, Moscow Mule, and more for just $6. Or, if you’re interested in trying something different, a new menu features champagne cocktails, clear spirit-based drinks, agave-based creations, and whiskey mixtures.

Krio’s Dan Bui opened this globally-inspired bar in Bishop Arts in 2021. It’s quickly become a popular spot for some great cocktails from around the world. You can choose from a Pisco Sour from Peru, an English Pimm’s Cup, Singapore Sling, and more. The Rugged Flower is a favorite “Atlas Original” with sotol and tamarind.

Inside of Houndstooth Coffee at Sylvan Thirty, this under-the-radar cocktail bar opened in 2016. Led by bar manager George Kaiho, cocktails are “Japan meets Texas.” The menu features Jettison “Originals” and classics. Favorites include the Matcha Mucho (mezcal and matcha), Tom Kha Gai Guys (gin, coconut cream, lime, mezcal, and more), and Red Headed Oaxacan — a mezcal and tequila-based concoction.

This neighborhood bar comes from Beverley’s owner Greg Katz. He transformed the former Zippers space on Fitzhugh Avenue to create this slick new, intimate space. Some favorite drinks include the Firing Squad (tequila, hibiscus, ginger, house Tajin) and passionfruit vodka fizz. Don’t miss the bar bites menu as well. The whipped ricotta is a must-try.

This Oaxacan-style Mexican bar in Deep Ellum is great for margaritas and live music. Cocktails at Ruins are agave spirit-forward. Some favorites include the Azteca 666 with mezcal and tequila, Smoking Mirror, and frozen Paloma.

From the creators of Namo, this new European-inspired bar in West Village is a must-visit for creative cocktails and bites. The bar program is led by Michelin-recognized bar director Ruben Rolon. The space features earth-tone terrazzo floors, wood-adorned walls, custom butterscotch velvet booths, gilded tables, high-top blush pink chairs, and warm backlit lighting behind the bar, create an inviting atmosphere with a touch of French glamour. Favorite sips include the tequila-based Fresh Quince of Bel Air and Al Pastor two-sipper.

Short for “Design District Bar,” Double D’s is a This & That Hospitality (Sfuzzi, High Fives) concept. The intimate space resembles a living room you would find in the ’70s with cozy couches, wood paneling, a vintage pool table, and checkered flooring. There’s even a ceiling mirror above the bar. Crafted by operating partners Jermey Elliott and Sung-Joon Koo, the cocktail menu includes specialty draft cocktails, house drinks, and rotating classics. A must-try is the espresso martini.

One of the newest additions to the Dallas cocktail scene, this speakeasy-style spot is attached to new omakase concept, Sushi Bar, in the East Quarter. Located in the historic Magnolia Oil service station, the bar can be accessed from the street (or through a secret door after dinner at Sushi Bar). Designed by JonesBaker, the space includes U-shaped leather booths in green, gold, and red, as well as a marble-topped walnut bar that is backlit. It feels moody and intimate, although it does offer 1,200 square feet of space. Make sure to try The Desert Moon Cocktail if you enjoy sotol.