Discover Irving's Best-Kept Cocktail Secrets
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 Love List
🫧 UNDERWATER THEMED DUMPLING RESTAURANT IN THE DFW SUBURBS🫧✨ Is anyone else wondering why all the coolest places are going to the burbs? We were shopping recently (the home goods burbs are elite, just a little pro tip) and we saw an unassuming dumpling restaurant and headed inside. When we walked in our jaws literally dropped, I’m not being dramatic, that actually happened. It’s called Juicy Dumplings and everything inside was themed to make you feel like you’re dining underwater. They were playing music video sing-a-longs the whole time we were there and it was the most fun experience. The soup dumplings and chili wontons were good too! Are they the best in town, no I wouldn’t say that but they were very tasty, we’d order them again!
Dallas Delightful Discoveries
🔥 Just got my spice fix at AJ's Hot Chicken, and let me tell you—it was worth every bite! 😋 Their sliders at a heat level of three had the perfect kick, just enough to make you sweat but keep you coming back for more. 🌶️ The friendly service made the experience even better, and I couldn't resist trying their mozzarella sticks and wings—both spicy, crispy, and oh-so-good! If you're in the mood for a flavorful adventure, this spot has got you covered. 🍗✨
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.
Shania dfw.topsites
🥟✨HIDDEN GEM✨🥟 Bushi Bushi a locally owned and operated gem is perfect for classic dim sum and Chinese food, all made from scratch. The atmosphere is casual yet elegant. What’s unique is the minimal interaction with staff—you order via a QR code, and a little robot delivers your food and drinks. And if you come here, you absolutely must try the orange chicken! It’s hands down one of the best in Dallas, with the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness. POPULAR ON THE MENU: 🥟 Soup Dumplings with Crab Meat 🧡 Orange Chicken (the best I’ve tried in DFW) 🍜 Chicken Pan-Fried Udon with Black Pepper 🍝 Stir Fried Rice Noodles
See also
Dining in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Dining Experiences, Foodie Favorites, and Trending Spots
Shania dfw.topsites
🥟✨HIDDEN GEM✨🥟 Bushi Bushi Dim Sum a locally owned and operated gem is perfect for classic dim sum and Chinese food, all made from scratch. The atmosphere is casual yet elegant. What’s unique is the minimal interaction with staff—you order via a QR code, and a little robot delivers your food and drinks. And if you come here, you absolutely must try the orange chicken! It’s hands down one of the best in Dallas, with the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness. POPULAR ON THE MENU: 🥟 Soup Dumplings with Crab Meat 🧡 Orange Chicken (the best I’ve tried in DFW) 🍜 Chicken Pan-Fried Udon with Black Pepper 🍝 Stir Fried Rice Noodles
Minnie
I’m back for the second time at this hidden gem! It’s a fast-casual spot by day, but at night, the speakeasy part opens up. This speakeasy is totally unexpected, and once you’re inside, they give you a menu book with the history of the place, details to the artworks, and their meanings, along with a drink menu. They host “Ode to Nepal” live music nights on Wednesdays with local Nepali artists and will also be starting a Nepali Bazaar outside the restaurant every Sunday afternoon, promoting Nepali handmade products! So, tag a friend you’d like to go with! Taipo (Behind the Door)
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.
Minnie
This is a Dallas hidden gem 😍. It’s a super cute Alice in Wonderland inspired brunch spot with amazing food. I see why the lines out the door, like every plate we ordered was so good. Our favorites: avocado toast, salmon benedict, and their tacos. They have freshly squeezed juices and a full cocktail bar. The espresso martini and mango passion mimosa are a must! But honestly you can’t go wrong with any of their drinks. It’s definitely one of my favorite brunch spots especially when the service, food, and drinks all hit the marks.
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.
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!
See alsoDiscover Your Community in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Discussions, Anonymous Posts & Events
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
Every time I go to Kirin Court, I’m amazed at the prices. Dumplings, egg rolls, steamed buns and the like are just a few bucks. This dim sum restaurant is an especially great stop if you’re dining with friends who love to share.
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.
Sheen
✨❇️AFRAH-A Must Visit Spot❇️✨ If you like to go around and experience different cuisines then this place should definitely be on your list. The service here is top notch & the ambience is pleasant, giving all the European vibes. It has been around for 2 decades now & still maintain its service & quality 💯 Featured Items: 🍱Afrah Sampler For (2); Hummus, Baba Ghannouj, Fried Kebbe, Falafel and Grape Leaves. 🥗Fattoush. 🧆Kebab Combo. 🍥Akkawi Pie 🥙Hummus & Pita Bread. 🥤Lemon Mint Smoothie. 🍹Fruit Cocktail. 🥧 Kunafa. Do check out this place if you haven’t already! Enjoy their service & varieties of items they offer✌🏻
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 alsoNetworking Events and Local Insights in Farmers Branch Near Dallas
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.
Everything Arlington and DFW
🍕 SLIDERS, SHAKES & SLICES (including boozy shakes for 21+!) for the whole fam in Grand Prairie at SERIOUS EATS 🍕 Located in EpicCentral, Serious Eats is a yummy spot for a bite with the fam. 🍕 Order at kiosks and your name is called when your food is ready. 🍕 Choose from monster slices of pizza, sliders, fries, tots and onion rings. Be sure to save room for a gourmet shake! (You just need one- it’s enough for 2 or 3 people!) 🍕 Full bar available along with boozy shakes for anyone 21 and over (I loved the Vincent Vega shake- YUM!). 🍕 Indoor & outdoor seating available, but you may have to wait a bit during busy times for a seat inside (we did!). 🍕 This spot is located next to the new climbing gym at EpicCentral so kids can play before or after they eat. 🍕 Sit outside & you can watch the Illuvia water & light show while you dine! 🍕 Pro Tip: the pizza slices are big enough that you’ll be full with one but the sliders are small so you may want two! Have you tried Serious Eats yet?
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. 🌽🔥
STEPHANIE
I definitely get why people really like this spot! 🔥 JOA GRILL is a top notch Korean BBQ spot in Dallas that really surprised me when I went! The food, drinks, and vibes were excellent and it was perfect for a nice date night! ✨ This is an elevated Korean BBQ concept, so your server cooks you meats for you (if you’d like) and they have a nice menu of specialty items to go with your main course! 🙌🏾 If you like Korean BBQ, then I recommend trying the TASTE OF JOA. It’s made for 2 people and comes with plenty of meats to share! 🥩 If you want something other than Korean BBQ, I highly recommend the OCTOPUS & the MUSSELS! They were both amazing! 🔥 This is a great spot for date night or a fun group dinner! It’s really a gorgeous spot! 🙌🏾
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 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.
See alsoExplore Cocktails in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Insights on Trending Rooftop Bars & Nightlife
Dallas fun fam
At Nico’s grill & bar, adults can enjoy delicious Mexican food while kids play on the enclosed playground! This family-friendly restaurant is an excellent choice for parent of young kids who have a hard time sitting still. Weekend brunch features an omelette bar, fresh waffles, plus specials on mimosas and Bloody Marys.
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.
Local Cocktail Bars in Irving Near Dallas: Hidden Gems
Unveiling Irving's Cocktail Bar Scene
Irving, nestled near the vibrant metropolis of Dallas, offers a thriving scene for cocktail enthusiasts. Among its many hidden gems, you will discover local cocktail bars that offer unique mixes, personalized service, and an unmatched ambiance. Whether you're an Irving local or just visiting, these spots provide a taste of the city's eclectic drinking culture.
Legendary Mixology at Water Street Tavern
Tucked away in the charming Water Street District, the Water Street Tavern is renowned for its innovative cocktails. This local favorite is celebrated for its masterful mixology, where bartenders craft concoctions using both classic and contemporary techniques. The 'Irving Sunset'—a delightful blend of local citrus fruits and artisanal spirits—is a must-try specialty that you won't find anywhere else. Regular patrons often engage in anonymous chats at Kikihub to exchange real opinions and local secrets about this beloved spot.
Trending Rooftop Bars Near Irving: Elevate Your Nightlife Experience
Sip and Savor at Scout
Scout is one of the trending rooftop bars near Irving, offering panoramic views of the Dallas skyline. Situated on the top floor of a historic building, Scout combines stunning vistas with expertly crafted cocktails. It’s an ideal place for enjoying a warm evening with an exquisite drink in hand. Many locals rave about the 'Dallas By Night,' a cocktail that features Texas bourbon, organic honey, and a hint of lavender—perfect for a sophisticated night out.
High Spirits at The Henry
The Henry, located just a short drive from Irving, is another rooftop venue capturing the attention of cocktail aficionados. Known for its chic atmosphere and tantalizing drink menu, The Henry is a premier destination for those seeking an elevated nightlife experience. The bartenders’ expertise is on full display with their 'Cactus Blush,' a cocktail that deftly combines tequila, ruby red grapefruit, and prickly pear. Locals often share updates and tips about The Henry on Kikihub, ensuring you’re always in the know.
Nightlife Hotspots: Discover the Best Bars Near Irving
Vibrant Nights at Bar Louie
For a lively nightlife experience, Bar Louie in Las Colinas is a top pick among Irving locals. Known for its energetic ambiance and creative cocktail list, Bar Louie offers something for everyone. The 'Swanky Louie'—a signature cocktail comprising gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh mint—is a standout option. The friendly vibe and welcoming décor make it a great spot for both regulars and newcomers alike. Hop on Kikihub for insider tips and real opinions about the best times to visit.
Chill Vibes at Reservoir
If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, Reservoir in Toyota Music Factory is a fantastic choice. This bar-restaurant hybrid boasts an impressive drink menu that caters to a variety of tastes. Wine lovers will appreciate the extensive wine list, while cocktail enthusiasts can indulge in the 'Texas Twister,' featuring local whiskey and an unexpected twist of jalapeno. Locals often discuss their experiences at Reservoir on Kikihub, making it easy to gather genuine recommendations.
Authentic Local Insights: True Irving Nightlife
The Rustic Charm of Whistlebritches
For those seeking a blend of rustic charm and modern flair, Whistlebritches in Dallas is a treasure trove of delightful cocktails and savory food. Their 'Southern Belle' cocktail—made with peach vodka, sweet tea, and a splash of lemon—is a true taste of Southern hospitality. Whistlebritches not only stands out for its drinks but also for its warm, welcoming environment. Regulars share real opinions and local insights about this gem on Kikihub, making it easy to stay updated on the latest offerings and events.
Savor Unique Flavors at Pacific Table
Another must-visit is Pacific Table, known for its sophisticated drinks and exquisite seafood dishes. Located in the heart of Irving, Pacific Table offers cocktails that reflect the diverse culinary influences of the region. The 'Pacific Dream'—a refreshing mix of rum, coconut water, and tropical fruits—is perfect for those looking to try something different. Locals frequent Kikihub to share their latest discoveries, ensuring you're always in the loop about the best flavors and specials.
In-The-Know Spots for Cocktail Enthusiasts
Exquisite Mixes at The Alamo Club
In nearby Dallas, The Alamo Club is a hotspot for those in search of top-notch cocktails. With a menu that changes seasonally, there’s always something new to try. The 'Dallas Sour,' made with Texas gin, lemon juice, and a house-made simple syrup, is a crowd-pleaser that garners rave reviews. The inviting atmosphere at The Alamo Club makes it a prime spot for both locals and visitors. Check Kikihub for the latest buzz and recommendations from fellow cocktail aficionados.
Eclectic Sips at Parlor on The Hill
Parlor on The Hill is another hidden gem just a short drive from Irving. Known for its eclectic cocktail offerings and artistic décor, this spot attracts a diverse crowd. Their 'Hilltop Margarita,' featuring top-shelf tequila and local lime, is a favorite among regulars. The engaging setting and unique drink menu make it a must-visit. Locals often share updates and reviews on Kikihub, providing invaluable insights into what makes this bar stand out.
