The 10 Best Bars & Nightlife in Dallas

A legendary Dallas outdoor bar with a massive dog-friendly patio, cheap cold beer, and a laid-back atmosphere that has made it a beloved institution for decades. Named after Lee Harvey Oswald with classic Dallas dark humor, it's the kind of place where everyone from hipsters to old-timers feels at home. The food truck out back is a bonus — don't skip it.

One of Dallas's most respected craft breweries with a taproom that feels genuinely local — no gimmicks, just excellent beer made by people who care deeply about the craft. Try the Velvet Hammer imperial red ale or whatever seasonal is on tap. The taproom is no-frills and cash-friendly, and it's only open limited hours, so check before you go.

A beloved dive bar in Oak Cliff that has been a neighborhood anchor for decades, beloved for its cheap drinks, no-attitude crowd, and genuine local character. Cash is king, the jukebox is great, and the regulars are welcoming. This is the real Dallas dive bar experience — nothing fancy, everything right.

A punk-spirited dive bar on Lower Greenville with a massive craft beer selection, a killer jukebox, and zero pretension — exactly what a neighborhood bar should be. The staff is friendly and the rotating taps feature some of the best local and regional craft beers in the city. It can get loud and crowded on weekends, which is part of the charm.

Tucked beneath the Adolphus Hotel, this subterranean cocktail lounge is widely considered one of the best craft cocktail bars in Dallas, with a moody, intimate atmosphere and a menu that changes seasonally. The bartenders are among the most skilled in the city — ask for a recommendation and trust them. It's small and fills up fast, so reservations or an early arrival are strongly advised.

A massive open-air bar and live music venue that has become one of Dallas's defining gathering spots, with a sprawling patio, cold Texas craft beers, and nightly live music. Order a frozen margarita or a local draft and stake out a spot on the patio before the crowds arrive. It gets extremely packed on weekends, so arrive early or expect a wait.

A moody, atmospheric bar in Deep Ellum with a gothic-industrial aesthetic, strong cocktails, and a late-night energy that fits the neighborhood perfectly. The cocktail menu is creative and the space — all exposed brick and dim lighting — is one of the most visually striking in Dallas. It's a late-night spot, so don't show up before 10pm expecting much of a crowd.

A sprawling multi-level outdoor bar in Uptown with one of the best patios in Dallas, a solid selection of frozen drinks and cocktails, and a reliably fun atmosphere that draws a broad crowd. It's the quintessential Dallas happy hour spot — come for the $5 frozen drinks during happy hour and stay for the rooftop views. Weekend crowds can be overwhelming, so weekday evenings are the sweet spot.

A sophisticated rooftop cocktail bar with stunning views of the Dallas skyline, a thoughtful cocktail menu, and a vibe that balances glamour with approachability. It's one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunset with a well-made drink in hand. Expect a wait on weekend evenings and note that the dress code leans smart-casual.

A polished cocktail bar and restaurant in Uptown that punches above its weight with a serious craft cocktail program and an impressive whiskey selection. The bartenders are knowledgeable and happy to guide you through the menu. It draws a well-heeled Uptown crowd, so expect a scene on weekends and dress accordingly.