Sip & Discover: Best Cocktails in Deep Ellum
Just Dallas Things
Welcome to the neighborhood, D.L. Mack’s🍸 This cozy Chicago-style tavern does not disappoint👏🏼 Everything was delicious, but the cracker crust honey truffle chicken pizza really did it for me. They also use Banana Hazelnut Infused Cold Brew in their Espresso Martinis and o.m.g. IT’S SO GOOD. Cheers to many more nights at Mack’s🥂✨ Ordered: Garlic Knots, Lemon Drop Martini, Bee’s Knees Cocktail, The McCarthy Salad, Honey Truffle Chicken Pizza, Cheeseburger, Espresso Martinis Want to Try Next: Mozzarella Sticks, Pesto Rotini, Harry Caray Special Pizza, Southside Cocktail
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
LAS PALMAS || DALLAS 🌴 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: their super strong margaritas and happy hour! Kept hearing about it so had to try it. 🍒 THE VIBE: super dark inside, sultry, the outside of the restaurant is completely different than what you get inside. It’s giving western Mexican romantic restaurant 🤣 🍒 PRICE: ~$35-$40 per person? That’s with a drink! 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Maybe! Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - Solid Tex-Mex food and you can’t go wrong with it. If you’re looking for reliable food in Dallas and you’re with a group of picky eaters and y’all are about to have a night out- this is the perfect place to eat and pre-game. - The margaritas were a bit too strong for a happy hour weekday pick-me-up (personally for me but I know some people love to get slammed mid day 😂) but they were good and only $8 during happy hour. - The fajitas were the star of the show! Absolutely solid! I loved the steaming hot theatrics the fajitas here provide. The tortillas were amazing (we got corn and flour). I love the grilled jalapeños. The rice and beans were flavorful. - I didn’t have the cheese tacos because I was too full but Sweta said they were good! The fajita fiesta easily feeds 3 people, it’s huge! - I wouldn’t go out of my way to come here but like I said if you’re in Dallas, having a night out with picky eaters, this is a solid pre-game dinner spot.
Just Dallas Things
It’s not SMU Homecoming Weekend without a night out at Javier’s🍸 The staff is always extremely friendly and the atmosphere is so much fun! I’ve narrowed down my favorite menu items and they include (1) The Perfect Margarita, (2) Smoked Chicken Nachos, and (3) Cafe Pierre ~ this dessert drink is 🔥 (literally!) It’s made with Rum, Kahlua, Brandy, Amaretto liqueur, Coffee, and homemade Whipped Cream. It’s delicious & the star of the show every time✨ Minimum order of 2 but you won’t regret it! Oh and if you’re looking for something to try in the cigar room, go for an Espresso Martini and a Vanilla Cigar😘 What are your Javier’s favorites?
Dallas Magazine
Best Meal With A View in Dallas: Mirador The downtown penthouse restaurant reopened after its pandemic hiatus with the same beautifully sunlit dining room and a fresh new menu that includes seasonal bistro lunch fare and a glamorous afternoon tea service. There are restaurants with higher views and aspirations. Mirador offers a gentler touch of luxury.
Dallas fun fam
Weekend at Klyde Warren Park 💲FREE 9/28 | 12 - 2 PM | Build Your City by AD EX: Unleash your inner architect in this interactive lesson! 🏙️✏️ 🌱 9/28 | 11 AM - 8 PM | Vegandale: Join us for a vibrant veganfest filled with delicious new foods to try! 🌮✨ ☕ 9/29 | 8 AM - 12 PM | Coffee & Cardio: Swing by The Salty for 50% off coffee for fitness goers! Don’t forget, we offer free fitness classes on the East Lawn every weekend! 🏋️♂️☕ 🎹 9/29 | 11 AM - 2 PM | Piano in the Park: Come play the piano and share your musical talent with us! 🎶🌳 🎷 9/29 | 2 - 3 PM | Jazz Becuzz: Relax and enjoy an afternoon of jazz and spoken word performances! 🎤🎷 See you in the Park!
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Kid Friendly Patio Restaurant with Yard Games: Shake Shack in Uptown Dallas🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ Shake Shack in Uptown Dallas has a huge kid friendly patio! ❤️ There are yard games like ping pong & corn hole, a large grassy lawn, and plenty of shaded tables. ❤️ This is the perfect lunch or dinner spot when exploring Klyde Warren Park, the Perot Museum, or riding the uptown trolley. Good to know: - There is free restaurant parking in the parking garage of The Crescent Hotel. Make sure to validate your ticket at the restaurant! - It’s open daily for lunch and dinner.
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
JOE LEO’S TEX MEX: Great food and a solid Tex Mex place! 💓 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: I’m not sure but it seems to be a local Dallas staple for years now. I only just found out about it. It’s pretty cute inside. Chips and salsa were fire >>> 🍒 THE VIBE: pretty casual, laid back, local Dallas vibes. 🍒 PRICE: ~$22 + $5 tip (my beef taco salad only) 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes. •••• Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - This is definitely a solid place to grab lunch or dinner! If you’re craving Tex Mex, add this to your list because they do it right. - The steak in my taco salad had SO much flavor. The salad was lowkey drowned in their jalapeno ranch making it not so healthy- however the ranch was actually SUPER spicy. I loved it!!!! I would get it again next time. - I had a little bit of my friend’s brunch fajitas that were half chicken and half jalapeno sausage and she loved it I also loved it as well! - Service was great. Vibes were great. They have a huge patio that does have misters for the hot days. Inside is not that big but is pretty cute. Parking was a breeze.
See also
Top Dining Spots in West Dallas: Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Places
Minnie
YAY wagamamaUSA! Their first location in Texas is in Dallas! I’ve had wagamama many times before since I lived near one when I was in NYC. It’s a popular ramen shop from the UK with pan-Asian and Asian comfort food. I stopped by for their new menu, which includes the Ahi Tuna Nachos, Korean Fried Chicken Bao, Miso Sweet Potato Bao, Karaage Chicken Bao, and Chili Hoisin Duck Bao. They also have sake-based cocktails with SOTO sake: Vietnamese Espresso Martini, Matcha Mule, and Passion Fruit Paloma. Tag a friend you’d like to go with! FYI - There’s free parking! They can validate parking for 2.5 hours in the building garage.
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
NORI HANDROLL BAR 🍙 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: hand rolls! They have classic Japanese appetizers too like Karaage and takoyaki. 🍒 THE VIBE: sultry and intimate. We went during the daytime though so it was a bit more empty but I can tell this is a vibe for a date night! 🍒 PRICE: ~$80 for two people 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes! •••• Overall Rating: 10/10 - We got king salmon, torched crab, dakutoro, & negitoro hand rolls. Absolutely phenomenal quality. I’m gonna say something controversial but I thought it was better than Hatsuyuki in Fort Worth but they are in two different cities so take it as you will! - The king salmon had the largest piece of salmon I was obsessed! The negitoro was out of this world. I will say the dakutoro was slightly fishy but I enjoyed the balance of the radish. - I liked this Handroll place had other ingredients inside of the Handroll to complement the fish. - The chefs and employees were extremely nice and attentive. I highly recommend coming here!
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
OISHI SUSHI & PAN-ASIAN🥢 •••• 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: very popular sushi restaurant. 🍒 THE VIBE: really small interior with patio seating. Recommend a reservation on weekends. 🍒 PRICE: varied per person but we honestly got way too much food LOL. Average should be $20-$50 per person based on cocktails and quantity. 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes. •••• Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - Great sushi spot with TONS of choices for sushi lovers AND non-sushi lovers. There’s just so many options you really can’t go wrong. - Please get a lychee martini their martinis were absolutely phenomenal! - Space was limited, I had a reservation but it didn’t work out but they were accommodating setting another reservation but this place was extremely busy on the weekends which is good for them! - The thing that stood out to me was the service here! The hostesses were nice when I brought a birthday cake for my friend. The server was so friendly. They really made this casual restaurant such a beautiful experience! I love the employees here!
The Dallas Morning News
La Bodega Rotisserie If you want to save money and have a family or friends meal where sharing is key, you can go to La Bodega Rotisserie in Oak Cliff and buy a rotisserie chicken with sides that can easily feed a group of four or five people for less than $50. Your package of rotisserie chicken, plus fries and salad, can be a delicious dinner any day of the week or a one- or two-person weekend lock-in meal if you plan to stay home and marathon a series.
The Dallas Morning News
Food From Galilee Nestled in University Park’s Snider Plaza, this humble Mediterranean spot serves loaded gyros, shawarma sandwiches and a plethora of appetizers that allow for variety on a budget, such as kibbeh, hummus and cabbage rolls. At lunchtime, meals are served on styrofoam plates; dinnertime gets an upgrade to something sturdier. The zingy chicken and rice soup is part of my order on every visit. Platters are generously portioned and come with rice or cucumber yogurt and a choice of soup or salad.
Dallas Magazine
The brunch bazlama, Petra and the Beast Does a bread folded in half count as a sandwich? Petra and the Beast’s brunch gets into the game with a bazlama, a relative of a Middle Eastern flatbread. It’s folded around the restaurant’s own sage breakfast sausage, eggs, arugula, and Thomasville Tomme, a tangy aged cheese made from raw cow’s milk. The result is big enough to share—if you like other people enough.
Dallas Magazine
Chicken burger, Ookuma Japanese Burger Crispy breaded chicken, a fistful of pickles, and a blanket of tartar sauce are all this burger needs. As I wrote previously, you can’t eat the burger without a mountain of napkins, thanks to the housemade tartar sauce loaded with chopped egg. Miraculously, the fried chicken stays crisp underneath. It’s a creamy summer delight, which is good, since seating here is in the great (shaded) outdoors.
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in West Dallas: Local Insights, Events, and Anonymous Discussions
Dallas Magazine
Ookuma Japanese Burger Crispy breaded chicken, a fistful of pickles, and a blanket of tartar sauce are all this burger needs. As I wrote previously, you can’t eat the burger without a mountain of napkins, thanks to the housemade tartar sauce loaded with chopped egg. Miraculously, the fried chicken stays crisp underneath. It’s a creamy summer delight, which is good, since seating here is in the great (shaded) outdoors.
Dallas Hidden Gems
We just checked out the Operators Club in the West End historic district’s Coca-Cola building, and the experience did not disappoint! This gem is the perfect spot to grab a bite or catch a game in the downtown area, as it pays homage to the American “Operators” and hard working people everywhere that get it done on the daily. We loved everything we sampled, but we will definitely be ordering the Pasta Zepp on our next visit! Food Deets: - Butcher & Farmer Board ($24) - Gochujang Duck Drumettes ($14) - Max & Cheese Burger ($19) - New Orleans Tasso ($22) Drink Deets: - Manhattan Project Draft - Irish Maid
Shania dfw.topsites
ANTOJIITOS MENTIIRAS is definitely a must-visit! They serve up mouthwatering “antojitos,” also known as tasty Mexican street food! Their corn in a cup (topped with hot cheeto, takis, or traditional toppings) is outstanding – the top pick in DFW! They also offer over-the-top shakes, fresas con crema, aguas frescas, prepared maruchan, mangonadas, and more! They prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients in all their dishes. 🌽🔥
Dallas Magazine
HENOSIS This weekend, the HighArt Foundation is hosting HENOSIS, a show centered on classical vocal performance. The show title means “unity” in Greek, symbolizing the group performance of art, opera, classical, and spiritual music. The proceeds from the show will be donated to the foundation, which will use them to provide scholarships to young, aspiring musicians. HAF founder, NaGuanda Nobles, an internationally acclaimed lyric soprano, along with a wondrous assemblage of artists, will edify the souls of the listeners with operatic, classical, and gospel genres. The concert title, HENOSIS, is a Greek word that means “unity” and this concert is sure to please the musical palates of fans of the fine arts and introduce new listeners to these timeless art forms. August 18, 7 p.m.
Dallas Magazine
Thursdays on Tap On the hunt for a date night? Head to the Perot Museum for another Thursday on Tap, to experience the museum after hours. The event will include food trucks, live performances, and access to current exhibitions. Plus, get full access to the Museum and all our exhibit halls, including our traveling exhibition, T. rex: The Ultimate Predator (through September 22). This program is for ages 21+, so whether you’re looking for a fun date night or a unique place to meet up with friends or coworkers, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the Museum without the daytime crowds or kids (we love them, but Thursday nights belong to YOU). August 15, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
STEPHANIE
One of my personal favs! ✨ Sassetta is a beautiful Italian Restaurant is one of my go-to date night spots! The interior is romantic, the service is great, and the food is always delicious! 🙌🏾 This spot opens at 11am, so it’s perfect for a lunch date or an evening in the city! The menu is full of Italian favorites and I’ve yet to try a dish I don’t like here! 🥂 I highly recommend the RIGATONI PASTA & the BOLOGNESE PASTA. Both are amazing! 🍝 I also recommend asking to sit along the windows. It’s a ground level view, and such a nice vibe while eating ☀️ This a great spot for a date night, girl’s night, or to grab a solo drink in the city! 🍸
The Dallas Morning News
Thrillers, documentaries and kabuki: The inside scoop on this year’s Asian Film Festival of Dallas The Asian Film Festival of Dallas kicks off its 4-day run at Dallas’ Angelika Theater on Thursday. The festival returns to the basics in this 23rd edition delivering over two dozen drama, action, thriller and documentary films about Asians and Asian Americans. Thomas Schubert, executive director of the festival, gives us the inside scoop on this year’s festivities including opening night, filmmakers in attendance and his “can’t miss” picks which include a swashbuckling kabuki play captured on film. The 23rd annual Asian Film Festival of Dallas will take place between July 25th-28th.
See alsoNetworking Events & Socializing in West Dallas: Trending Community Gatherings & Local Insights
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Just steps away from the American Airlines Center, Happiest Hour is a vibrant and spacious venue. In fact, it is the largest patio bar and lounge in Dallas. Offering 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor lounge, the prime spot for alfresco vibes is the stylish second floor rooftop, surrounded with impeccable views over Victory Park and the Dallas skyline. Packed with plenty of atmosphere, from the casual post-work and pre-game sessions, to more upscale late night vibes, the large rooftop menu comes filled with signature cocktails, wines on tap and more than 50 different beer selections.
Dallas fun fam
Dallas: balancing great food and child-approved fun! Medieval Times is a kid-friendly attraction where you eat a medieval-style dinner and watch knights joust right in front of you! It feels like you’ve stepped back in time, and it’s a good time for everyone! Make sure to book a reservation in advance! Medieval Times is based upon authentic Medieval history and is the true story of a noble family with documentation dating back to the 11th Century. Medieval Times began with two dinner/ entertainment complexes located in Majorca and Benidorm, Spain. The first North American Castle in Kissimmee, Florida opened in December 1983. Medieval Times’ Castles have since entertained more than 72 million guests.
Dallas Love List
🦋THE ONLY BUTTERFLY GARDEN IN DALLAS We know it’s hot outside, but don’t worry this 2-story butterfly house complex is indoors!✨ Butterfly House + Garden is a non-profit organization featuring butterflies from all over the world as well as garden trains and replica historic buildings, the snake & reptile shack, the 1936 historic World’s Fair Centennial House, an outdoor children’s playscape featuring a rock climbing wall, a rope bridge, sandbox, ponds and fountains!🍃🦋 Open daily 10AM - 5PM
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Perched on top of the classic hotel The Statler in downtown Dallas, the beautiful Waterproof is a pool bar by day and a rooftop lounge by night. Both stylish indoor lounge and open-air terrace, where the outside part offers both a refreshing rooftop pool and panoramic views over the Dallas skyline. Visit for sunny and relaxing afternoon cocktails, or come for the nightly, more swanky and vibrant atompshere. During the colder months, the terrace turns into Winterproof, with some really cool and cosy rooftop igloos.
Dallas Love List
⚾️ OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - VISIT THE MLB LIFE EXPERIENCE AT ALL-STAR VILLAGE THIS WEEK IN ARLINGTON ⚾️✨ If you haven’t heard yet, Arlington is home to the 2024 Major League Baseball All Star Week. Even if you don’t have tickets to the Derby or All-Star game, you can still visit the MLBLife space at Esports Stadium, as a part of the All-Star Village Fan Festival. The MLB Life Experience features live music performances, unique ballpark food, panel discussions with artists and player fashion stylists, The Show mini game competitions, Home Run Derby VR booths, custom sneaker customization, interactive art and so much more. For only $35, you can access this space and other fun All-Star Village activations! MLB Life at Esports Stadium and All Star Village are open July 14th 10am - 8pm, and July 15th-16th from 10am - 6pm.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
At the 19th-floor of the Statler Hotel, a true Dallas icon, you find the exclusive indoor/outdoor urban oasis the Waterproof bar and pool. Here you can swim with an epic panoramic view of surrounding downtown Dallas and enjoy delicious cocktails and bites. Waterproof is open for everyone, but to access the pool you need to make a reservation for a cabana. As the sun sets the energy picks up with life DJ entertainment, bottle service and ever more impeccable views. There is also an outdoor resort-style pool on the 4th floor, called The Statler Pool, offering loungers, cabanas and a relaxing experience.
Discover the Best Local Cocktail Bars in Deep Ellum
Deep Ellum, nestled just a stone's throw from downtown Dallas, is an eclectic neighborhood brimming with character, history, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Known for its rich musical heritage and street art, this area is also a hotspot for some of the best local cocktail bars you’ll find in Dallas. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a great night out, Deep Ellum’s cocktail scene offers something for everyone.
Trending Rooftop Bars with a View
When it comes to finding the perfect spot for a drink, atmosphere can be just as important as the cocktail itself. That’s why rooftop bars are trending in Deep Ellum. XYZ Rooftop Bar is a must-visit with its panoramic views of the Dallas skyline, craft cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere. Sip on their signature bourbon-based drink while you take in the city lights. Another rooftop gem is Skyline Lounge, known for its handpicked selection of local spirits and stunning sunsets. Prepare to be dazzled both by the view and the mixology.
Hidden Gems: Local Cocktail Bars
If you’re looking for a place where the locals hang out, Deep Ellum has plenty of hidden gems that offer unique cocktail experiences. The Hideaway is a cozy, unassuming bar that serves up some of the most inventive cocktails in the area. Their menu changes seasonally, focusing on local, fresh ingredients, and experimental flavors. Mystery Bar is another spot treasured by those in the know. Located behind an unmarked door, this speakeasy delivers an atmosphere that’s both laid-back and sophisticated. Their gin cocktails are especially noteworthy, crafted by expert bartenders who bring a touch of magic to each glass.
The Heart of Nightlife in Deep Ellum
When it comes to nightlife, Deep Ellum stands out as a premier destination in Dallas. Known for its live music venues, the neighborhood blends entertainment seamlessly with its cocktail culture. Visit Live Jazz Lounge for a mix of soulful melodies and expertly crafted drinks. The synergy between music and cocktails here is enchanting. For a more high-energy vibe, DJ's Rooftop offers electrifying performances coupled with a curated cocktail list. Keep your ears open for local DJ sets and special events to fully immerse yourself in the Deep Ellum nightlife.
Where Cocktails and Cuisine Meet
Deep Ellum isn’t just about drinks; it’s a hub for culinary delights as well. Many local cocktail bars pair their drinks with exquisite menu offerings. Dine & Drink is celebrated for its tapas-style dishes that complement their extensive cocktail list. Their truffle fries and house-made margaritas are fan favorites. Fusion Flavors takes it a step further by offering globally inspired dishes alongside a world-class selection of cocktails. Their spicy tuna tacos pair perfectly with their signature spicy mezcal drink. A visit to these spots ensures you’re not only quenching your thirst but also indulging your taste buds.
Local Insights: What Makes These Spots Special
The charm of Deep Ellum’s cocktail bars goes beyond just the drinks—they offer an experience enriched by local culture and creative innovation. Interact with bartenders for a chance to learn about the stories behind each cocktail, or gain insights into the best local spirits. Regulars often share their experiences and recommendations, turning a night out into an opportunity for discovery. Use the Kikihub platform to tap into anonymous local chats where you can get real opinions and secrets from those who know the scene best. Whether you’re looking for the perfect date spot or a hidden gem to impress your friends, local insights can steer you in the right direction.
Embrace the Deep Ellum Vibe
One of the most appealing aspects of Deep Ellum is its unpretentious, artistic vibe. The bars here don’t just serve drinks—they celebrate the community and culture of the area. From the art-covered walls of Gallery Bar to the retro feel of Throwback Club, each establishment offers a unique ambiance that tells a story. Spend a little time soaking in the atmosphere, and you’ll understand why Deep Ellum holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors.
Get the inside scoop on the best spots and hidden gems by engaging with the Kikihub community. Local chats can provide a treasure trove of information, revealing the favorite haunts of Deep Ellum’s most in-the-know residents. Your next signature cocktail could be just a chat away!
