Discover Mesquite's Hidden Cocktail Gems Near Dallas
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 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.
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✌🏻
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.
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
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.
See also
Discover the Best Dining in Forney: Local Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near Dallas
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. 🍗✨
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. 🌽🔥
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
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!
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
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 Forney Near Dallas: Local Insights, Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
See alsoNetworking Events and Socializing in Forney Near Dallas: Local Insights and Trending Community Gatherings
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.
Paige
Sizzling Spices is an Indian fusion restaurant known for Indo-Chinese dishes, aesthetic presentation, a fine-dining space, and flavorful food! 😃My favorite dishes include: 🍗Chicken Lollipop ✨Masal Papad 🍚Fried Rice 🍽️Chilli Chicken 🥭Mango Lassi 🧆Shahi Kofta Curry 🍛Mughlai Chicken Tikka Masala 🍞Garlic Naan
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.
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! 🍸
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.
Discover the Best Cocktails in Mesquite Near Dallas
When it comes to finding top-notch cocktails and vibrant nightlife, Mesquite, located near Dallas, has no shortage of fantastic options. Whether you're a local or just visiting, our guide will give you a sneak peek into the local cocktail bars, trending rooftop bars, and more. Let Kikihub—a resource for local anonymous chat—help you gain genuine local insights and secrets.
Local Cocktail Bars Worth Checking Out
In Mesquite, you'll find a selection of local cocktail bars that offer a unique twist on your favorite drinks. One standout is Bourbon & Banter, a hidden gem that offers a cozy, intimate environment perfect for those who enjoy a crafted cocktail experience. Patrons rave about their inventive mix of local ingredients that bring their drinks to life. Chat with the bartenders for some insider recommendations.
For a more diverse cocktail menu, head over to Grove Hill Road. This local hotspot is known for its eclectic blend of classic and contemporary cocktails, making it a favorite among the locals. The laid-back vibe makes it a fantastic place to unwind after a long day. Don't forget to try their signature Mesquite Mule—it's a conversation starter for sure.
Trending Rooftop Bars in Mesquite
If you prefer sipping your cocktails under the stars, then the trending rooftop bars of Mesquite are the places to be. Skyline Lounge offers breathtaking views along with a stylish menu of craft cocktails. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a romantic evening, this rooftop bar provides the perfect backdrop.
On the other hand, Cityscape is another trending rooftop bar that locals can't stop talking about. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Cityscape serves up some of the best margaritas in the area. They also host live music events, making it an excellent spot for those who love a lively nightlife scene. Guests often recommend visiting during sunset for an unforgettable experience.
Nightlife Hotspots Not to Miss
The nightlife in Mesquite extends beyond just cocktail bars. For those who enjoy a mix of great drinks and live entertainment, The Backdoor Lounge is the place to go. This bar offers an extensive cocktail menu along with nightly live music, creating an energetic atmosphere that keeps locals coming back for more.
Another popular nightlife hotspot is The Iron Horse Pub. This bar is known for its themed nights and a fantastic selection of cocktails. From trivia nights to live DJ sets, The Iron Horse Pub brings variety to Mesquite's nightlife. Be sure to try their seasonal cocktails which are crafted to perfection by experienced mixologists.
Charm and Character in Every Drink
One of the reasons Mesquite's cocktail scene stands out is the charm and character imbued in every drink. At Wicked Mixology, each cocktail tells a story, inviting you to explore different flavors and experiences. Their mixologists are renowned for their creativity, making it a must-visit for cocktail aficionados. The bar’s prohibition-era theme adds a touch of historical allure, making your night out even more special.
For those who appreciate a touch of elegance, The Velvet Room offers a sophisticated setting alongside its luxurious cocktails. Known for its plush decor and intimate seating, The Velvet Room is perfect for a date night or a quiet evening with close friends. The knowledgeable staff often share local insights into the origins of their unique cocktail ingredients.
Local Insights and Hidden Gems
Connecting with locals through Kikihub can reveal some hidden gems in Mesquite’s cocktail scene that you won't find in mainstream guides. For instance, locals often talk about the Secret Garden, an off-the-beaten-path bar that offers a mystical ambiance with its botanical-inspired cocktails. The menu changes seasonally, providing a fresh and exciting experience each time you visit.
Another spot frequently mentioned in local chats is The Alchemist’s Den. Though it might not have the same fame as bigger bars, it has earned its reputation for inventive cocktails and a speakeasy vibe. Engage with locals on Kikihub to find out the best times to visit and any secret menu items you should try.
Restaurant Bars with Noteworthy Cocktails
Mesquite's restaurants also boast some impressive cocktail bars. The Mesquite Social House, while known primarily for its fine dining, offers a bar area that serves some of the most refined cocktails in town. Their bartenders are experts in pairing drinks with various dishes, making this a great option for an evening out that combines gourmet food with expertly crafted cocktails.
For a more casual dining experience with a standout bar, try The Urban Grill. Their cocktail bar has earned accolades for its inventive drinks that feature local ingredients. Many locals recommend their Spicy Texan Martini, a unique blend that perfectly captures the spirit of Mesquite.
Unique Cocktail Experiences
If you're in search of something completely different, consider visiting The Hatter and the Hare. This whimsical bar offers a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience with its Alice in Wonderland theme. Each drink is a creative masterpiece, and the bar itself feels like stepping into a fantasy world. Local patrons love the immersive atmosphere and the extraordinary drink presentations.
Lastly, make sure to visit The Barrel Room, where the focus is on barrel-aged cocktails. These meticulously prepared drinks offer rich, complex flavors that are worth savoring. The Barrel Room is a hit among those who appreciate the art of mixology at its finest. Engage with fellow enthusiasts on Kikihub to share your favorite drinks and experiences.
