Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Old East Dallas

Cool bars

You want a bar that feels like it belongs in this specific part of town.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Adair's Saloon image 1
Adair's Saloon image 2
Adair's Saloon image 3
View all
Live music bar

Live music fills a classic dive bar with graffiti-covered walls and an old school jukebox. The atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious, attracting locals who enjoy dancing and pool. Burgers and cold Lone Star beers complement the punk-themed, gritty vibe.

An unpretentious, toe-tapping, beer-slinging dive bar with strong country vibes. Offers some of the best bar food in the area and holds a classic, historical feel.

Cool bartenders and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere. The place has a laid-back vibe with live music most nights.

People are saying

"This bar feels like a forgotten piece of Dallas culture."

"You can catch amazing live music here nightly."

"It's a cool dive bar with graffiti and an old school jukebox."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 8 pm, offering discounted drinks.

2

Live music is held nightly, attracting larger crowds.

3

There is rarely a cover charge for live music events.

02
Saint Valentine image 1

Bar combines colorful diner aesthetic with gold booths and chandeliers for a slick yet relaxed feel. Music plays consistently, supporting a cozy, chill vibe that suits groups and late-night crowds. Spacious layout with round corner booths encourages socializing without feeling crowded.

Perfect vibe inside creates a welcoming atmosphere. Wings stand out as top tier bar food. Friendly staff offer helpful recommendations at the bar.

Atmosphere blends classy yet edgy elements creating a cool vibe. The bar feels cozy and suits a grown-up crowd.

People are saying

"The bar staff are genuinely hospitable and amazing."

"I loved the unique cocktails here; they weren't too sweet."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and cozy."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a lot behind the bar.

2

Happy hour offers great cocktail prices from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The bar hosts a book club event every month.

03
Will Call Bar image 1
Cocktail bar

Small, modern cocktail bar offers live music, DJ sets, and a vibrant local vibe where energy stays high. Outdoor patio provides an excellent spot for people watching and socializing. Music volume can be loud, adding to the lively atmosphere.

A lively spot with friendly and fast service and a clean, sturdy bar. The atmosphere stands out even more than the food and service, making it a solid choice for a night out.

The spot has a cool atmosphere with a friendly crowd. It offers a relaxed vibe perfect for hanging out, eating, and drinking near downtown.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the wings."

"The bar's atmosphere felt like a place out of the movies."

"It's a cool spot to hang out and relax."

Good to know

1

You can order and pay from your phone at your table.

2

Parking is not the best in the area.

3

The happy hour deals are only available through a QR code ordering system.

04
Double Wide Bar image 1

Small, dark bar with quirky decor and trailer park kitsch creates a laid-back, eclectic vibe. Live music and DJs keep energy lively without overwhelming noise. Crowd feels friendly and the atmosphere stays intimate and comfortable.

Offers a true dive bar experience with a friendly atmosphere and world-class drinks. Frozen Yoo Hoos provide a unique, affordable alternative to typical cocktails in a comfortable, inviting setting.

A cool cigarette vending machine stands out at the bar. The layout and small stage create a cool vibe for live music in this neighborhood dive bar.

People are saying

"It's a true Dallas dive bar with a quirky, trailer-park vibe."

"This bar has a quirky, trailer-park-meets-music-venue vibe."

"This place has a really cool look and layout."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider street parking.

2

Cash is needed for drinks, as credit cards are not accepted.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with discounted drinks.

05
The Peak Inn image 1
Bar & grill

Dark dive bar with a corner bar atmosphere and free jukebox sets a laid-back vibe. Small space includes a pool room with comfy chairs and a chill back patio. Regulars enjoy cheap beer and classic burgers in a worn, cozy setting.

Dark, no-frills dive bar with a jukebox playing twangy tunes and friendly regulars. Offers great food and attentive service with reasonable prices for both food and drink.

A cool little chill spot with a laid-back vibe and a back patio perfect for relaxing. Beers come with a cold small glass, adding to the casual, hip feel.

People are saying

"You have to try the cheesesteak egg rolls; they're a must-try."

"I swear the burgers at this bar are top-tier late-night grub."

"It's a cool, laid-back place with amazing burgers."

Good to know

1

Bring cash and quarters for the pool tables, which cost a dollar per game.

2

The kitchen stays open late, allowing food orders until 1:30 AM.

3

On Mondays, enjoy a special deal on burgers.

06
Charlie's Star Lounge image 1

Bar with a 1950s honky tonk character offers an eclectic, friendly crowd and a gothic vibe. Music varies nightly from metal to electronic, fueling a lively dance floor and a comfortable, accepting atmosphere. Spacious patio and free parking add to the casual, alt-grungy dive bar feel.

Eclectic and friendly crowds mix in this alt-grungy dive bar with a gothic vibe. Electronic music DJs and karaoke add to the passion-filled music atmosphere.

A chill rock dive bar vibe sets the tone here. The bartender keeps things cool and spins a sick playlist that fits the mood.

People are saying

"The music at this bar is always fun and passionate."

"This dive bar is so friendly, you'll make new friends before going home."

"It's a cool spot with a different vibe."

Good to know

1

There is no cover charge at Charlie's Star Lounge on New Year's Eve.

2

Karaoke on Fridays starts at 9pm; arrive before 10:30pm to sign up.

3

Sunday nights feature an epic DnB night starting at 9pm.

07
Armoury D.E. image 1

Bar and courtyard combine low lit ambiance with medieval and witchy decor featuring Hungarian and European influences. Live music energizes the unique Kubrick-inspired outdoor patio, creating a chill yet lively vibe. Craft cocktails and authentic food complement the phenomenal spooky atmosphere.

A gothic, medieval-themed bar with a low lit ambiance and a ruin bar vibe transports you to Budapest. It serves high quality crafted cocktails alongside authentic Hungarian food in a courtyard setting.

A cool vampires lair vibe sets the tone with old school style decor and a Hungarian theme. The atmosphere stays warm and chill with both indoor and outdoor seating plus a cool bar.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"This bar has a cool, gothic vibe with phenomenal cocktails."

"Their cocktail menu is really cool, with unique ingredients."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

The venue features live music every Sunday from 6 to 10 PM.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be limited during peak hours.

08
Palomino Ranch image 1

Cozy bar with upbeat music and a friendly, drama-free vibe. Decor resembles a legit country bar with a rooftop offering great atmosphere. Popular songs keep people dancing, making it suitable for both chill evenings and lively nights.

Cozy bar with a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere and chill vibes for drinks with friends or a lively party. The country-style decor fits the mood, and the patio bar features a standout bartender named Kim.

Vibe feels cool and free of drama. Staff and bartenders add to the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bar has a friendly, upbeat vibe with a country feel."

"I enjoyed the amazing food here."

"I found the vibe here to be cool and free of drama."

Good to know

1

Drinks typically cost over $20 each, so budget accordingly.

2

Special events occur regularly; check the schedule for details.

3

Casual attire is acceptable, making it a relaxed spot for outings.

09
Strangeways image 1

Bar offers an eclectic, cozy atmosphere with lively DJ sets featuring house and post-punk music. Crowd stays chill and friendly, gathering on a spacious patio adorned with unique art. Selection includes rare beers and diverse spirits, creating a community-focused vibe.

Small, eclectic neighborhood bar with friendly service and a diverse selection of amari and aperitifs. Offers unique brews on tap not found at other bars, creating a chill and memorable atmosphere.

A cool vibe fills the space with good DJ music setting the tone. Walls showcase really cool art, adding to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection here to be unique and very good."

"This bar has the best beer selection I've found."

"I found the vibe cool with good DJ music on Saturday night."

Good to know

1

The elevated bar menu is available until midnight every day.

2

House music nights occur regularly; check the schedule for dates.

3

Food trucks and guest chefs often appear, adding variety to the menu.

10
Black Swan Saloon image 1
Cocktail bar

Petite space with cowboy theme and Quรฉbec Star Wars posters creates a unique, nostalgic vibe. Warm, inviting atmosphere fills quickly with a diverse, lively crowd reflecting an integrated neighborhood feel. Music adds energy, making it suitable for casual nights or dates.

Cozy atmosphere and lively crowds fill the bar by night. The bar team is welcoming and skilled, keeping consistent hours for late-night cocktails.

Bar offers a cool neighborhood feel with cool posters decorating the walls. The overall vibe stays consistently cool throughout.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is wonderful and welcoming."

"The bartenders here craft custom cocktails with spot-on flavor balance."

"The bartenders here are so welcoming and friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit tricky, but they do have a small lot.

2

On busy evenings, a restroom visit requires patience.

3

The bar's consistent hours are a plus for late-night cocktails.

11
Rodeo Cold image 1

Large dog-friendly patio with TVs, heaters, and games creates a lively social space. Indoor area is small and crowded on busy nights, featuring Texas-themed decor that reflects country roots. Atmosphere blends laid-back, stylish vibes with a fun, retro dive bar feel.

A fun bar with weekly events keeps things lively. The back porch area features a bar, TVs, heaters, and a beer pong table, creating a relaxed social vibe with quality drinks.

Great atmosphere combines with Texas-themed decor and cool drinks to create a very cool vibe.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the wings and tenders, was crazy good."

"The outdoor seating is perfect for catching a game with TVs."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and has great vibes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 p.m. with discounted drinks.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8 p.m.

3

Karaoke night is on Wednesdays, starting at 9 p.m.

12
Ghost Donkey - Dallas image 1

Speakeasy-style bar with dark, multicolor lighting and an electric, lively vibe. Space feels upscale and inviting with curated agave spirits and creative cocktails. Music and atmosphere create a cozy yet energetic setting.

Dark, speakeasy vibe sets the tone with multicolor ceiling lights and elegant chandeliers over the bar. Service stays fast and attentive even when busy, creating a cool and cute lounge atmosphere.

Super cool vibe with amazing music sets a cozy, energetic mood. Drinks and finger foods match the great ambience.

People are saying

"The mezcal cocktails here are creative, bold, and served with flair."

"You have to try their Happy Hour for creative margaritas and Palomas."

"The cocktails are creative, well-balanced, and served with flair."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts all day on Sundays with $2 tacos and $8 cocktails.

2

The happy hour deals include margaritas, tacos, chips, salsa, and quesadillas.

3

The bar gets lively by 5:30 PM, so expect a buzzing crowd.

13
Cold Beer Company image 1

Bar offers large outdoor patio with shady trees and multiple TVs, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Crowd includes locals, cyclists, and pet owners, fostering a welcoming vibe. Music and cold beer complement the chilled, neighborhood feel.

A super friendly local bar with chilled vibes and great music offers a small menu featuring great beer and above average bar food.

A cool patio makes it a popular spot for cycling breaks. The bar offers a great beer selection and attracts a local crowd including a well-known guy called Bear the Bulldog.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection here to be really great."

"I found the bar food to be above average and the beer selection great."

"It's a cool bar with chilled vibes and great beer."

Good to know

1

Tuesday night bike nights attract a large crowd, making it a lively event.

2

The bar is bicycle and pet friendly, welcoming both cyclists and pets.

3

There is plenty of outdoor seating available for guests.

14
Deep Ellum Art Co. image 1
Live music venue

Small live music venue combines intimate atmosphere with great sound quality and creative wall art. Spacious outdoor area offers room to relax and dance, enhancing the community vibe. Venue supports local arts with an on-site gallery and lively performances.

A large bar offers a nice selection of brews, wines, and spirits with friendly and fast bartenders. Artwork decorates the space, letting you Venmo artists directly while enjoying the full-service bar and outdoor yard.

Walls feature unique art and lighting that stand out. The venue offers a welcoming setup and a good beer selection alongside the cool art.

People are saying

"I found the art displayed here to be super cool."

"The outdoor seating here is a great, big patio space."

"The bar staff here is amazing and super friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is often limited due to construction, so arrive early.

2

The venue strictly enforces a 2am cutoff for events.

3

Pancakes and Booze events are popular and may require early arrival.

15
St. Pete's Dancing Marlin image 1

Classic bar and grill in a historic building offers a warm, cozy atmosphere with live music and sports TVs. Walls display memorable decor like beer signs and stuffed fish, creating a lively, down-home vibe. The patio adds an outdoor option, enhancing the relaxed, friendly energy.

Travis provides great service from behind the bar. The spot has a cool dive bar and beach hut vibe with an extensive bar menu and a relaxed, down-home atmosphere.

A funky dive bar vibe mixes with a beach hut restaurant feel here. Bartenders bring a cool energy that matches the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes here are delicious, especially the Diablo Shrimp."

"The bar food here is great, especially the burger."

"The food here is so tasty and incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers daily craft beer specials for $4.

2

You can still get happy hour drinks and appetizers during the event.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant and in nearby paid lots.

16
Lakewood Landing image 1

Dive bar with an old mob sit-down style offers a cozy atmosphere and relaxed vibe. Features include a jukebox, outdoor patio seating, and a pool table. Locals gather here for casual comfort and well-regarded burgers.

Cozy dive bar with honest pours and damn good bar food. Offers a real bar vibe with a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

A cool little dive bar with a relaxed vibe. It stands out as a spot for a beer that feels casual and inviting.

People are saying

"It's a great little dive bar with good burgers."

"It's a great little dive bar with good burgers."

"I found it to be a cool little dive bar."

Good to know

1

The bar has a strict age policy; no one under 21 is allowed.

2

Parking is generally available, but can fill up quickly on weekends.

3

The menu features a variety of burgers and affordable drink options.

17
Dallasite Billiards image 1

Dive bar with pool tables, shuffleboard, and a divey outdoor patio creates a lively, unpretentious atmosphere. Friendly crowd gathers for billiards and casual drinks in a relaxed, neighborhood setting. Energy shifts from chill to wild, making it a versatile spot to hang out.

Busy with pool tables and regulars, this bar offers a friendly vibe and solid bar staff. It serves as an old-school neighborhood spot with a lively karaoke night on Fridays.

A very cool atmosphere sets the tone for a great vibe. It works well as a meet-up spot for playing pool.

People are saying

"It's a great local dive bar with a really divey vibe."

"It's a great neighborhood dive bar with good people."

"It's a cool spot with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Friday and Saturday nights, attracting a lively crowd.

2

The bar offers a good selection of draft beers and a solid food menu.

3

Reservations are not required, but arrive early for karaoke to secure a good spot.

18
Westlake Brewing Company image 1

Spacious brewery tap room with large patio and board games creates a relaxed, fun atmosphere. The space feels airy with wood ceiling acoustics that keep noise comfortable. Dog-friendly environment hosts activities like trivia, open mics, and free yoga, attracting a diverse crowd.

Top-notch bar service pairs with a great atmosphere and attentive bar staff. The giant pretzel stands out as soft and perfectly made, adding a pleasant surprise to the bar experience.

Great staff and a cool atmosphere set the tone. The brewery features a cool design and offers a relaxed spot to enjoy drinks and light snacks.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"The beer selection here is great, especially the coffee beer."

"The beer here is awesome and fabulous."

Good to know

1

The brewery allows outside food, so you can bring your own snacks.

2

Parking is limited, but there's an affordable lot behind the brewery.

3

Dogs are welcome inside, making it a pet-friendly spot.

19
Angry Dog image 1
Bar & grill

Small old-school bar with open kitchen and long bar offering plenty of seating and a wide variety of beers. Atmosphere is lively and customer-friendly, often packed even on weeknights with music and sports on multiple TVs. Seating is close together, creating a cramped but energetic vibe.

Small old-school bar offers relaxed vibes and an awesome beer selection. Bar food stands out as better than typical, with prompt and courteous service from friendly staff.

A cool vibe fills the spot with an old school atmosphere. The place stays very clean and tucked away, adding to its charm.

People are saying

"I thought the burger here was the best in Dallas."

"The bar food here is surprisingly great, especially the burgers."

"It's a super cool spot with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street, although there may be a cost.

2

There was free parking before 6 PM.

3

Cash is the only accepted payment method.

20
Ruins image 1

Bar combines Mesoamerican-inspired decor with a divey, Deep Ellum vibe. Loud music fills a live entertainment space featuring house artists and DJs. The atmosphere feels dark and intense, with demonic art creating a unique, edgy mood.

Combines cocktail bar, food venue, and live music spot in one. Offers a super cool vibe with great drinks and events.

Music feels alive in a cool space with a lively band and bar. The patio area adds to the vibe, complemented by a tequila selection and specialty cocktails.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be delicious."

"Their cocktails are amazing and perfectly crafted."

"The cocktails here are always perfectly crafted."

Good to know

1

The kitchen is open until 1:45am, serving food late into the night.

2

Expect an automatic 18% gratuity added to your bill for all services.

3

Parking is available in a garage right in front of the venue.

21
Ritual Dallas image 1
Cocktail bar

Small lounge with 80's decor and dark interior creates a cozy atmosphere filled with on point music from a DJ. Energy stays unmatched with multiple rooms featuring TVs and a private space for quiet gatherings. Attention to detail in art and photobooth sets it apart from typical cocktail bars.

Creative cocktails stand out with inventive spins on classics and balanced elixirs. The bar offers a vibrant lounge atmosphere that feels like a whole experience beyond just drinks.

Dimmed lights and cool decor create a relaxed vibe. Music complements the atmosphere, making it feel chill and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, with fresh and flavorful tapas."

"The cocktails here are superb and perfectly crafted."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $5, with street parking as an option.

2

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

3

After midnight, only drinks are served; no food is available.

22
Dada Dallas image 1
Live music venue

Small venue with intimate stages and close proximity to performers creates a high-energy atmosphere. Indoor space offers standing room only, while an outdoor patio with picnic tables and a taco stand provides a relaxed alternative. Sound quality is clear, allowing every note to be heard distinctly during live shows.

Drink prices stay reasonable, about half what larger venues charge. The bar features a nice patio and a welcoming vibe with easy access.

Cool vibe fills the venue with good sound quality throughout. Bartenders work quickly and smoothly, adding to the overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a chill, intimate bar perfect for hanging out after a show."

"It's a great outdoor space with an outdoor stage."

"I found it to be a really cool venue."

Good to know

1

The show starts at 6:30 pm instead of 7 pm as indicated on the website.

2

Parking at Dada Dallas costs about $15 for 2 hours.

3

A larger parking lot is within a 10-minute walking distance from Dada Dallas.

23
Saaya image 1
Restaurant

Vibrant Mediterranean-inspired lounge with hookah service rated 10/10 and live belly dancing performances. Indoor spaces include karaoke pods for groups, while a stunning garden patio offers outdoor seating under the stars. Atmosphere blends a cool, lively vibe with trendy decor and music curated by a DJ.

Offers a chic dining experience with a strong focus on Mediterranean flavors. The bar features unique areas ideal for photos and maintains timely service even when busy.

Dim lighting and cool beats create a chill atmosphere with just the right energy. The spot offers a nice vibe for adults, especially for enjoying hookah.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the creamy, flavorful dip trio."

"You'll have a great time if Jocelyn is working the bar; she's got such positive energy."

"The service here is so cool, with staff like Amanda being truly amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 6 to 8pm with $7 drinks and food.

2

Karaoke pods are available for a fun experience.

3

Reservations are recommended to secure a table or patio spot.

24
KANVAS by Kevin Kelley image 1

Venue offers huge outdoor seating, three bars, and an upstairs lounge with DJ and multiple TVs for sports. Atmosphere suits date nights, socializing, and casual outings with a lively vibe and good music. Rooftop and patio areas provide varied spaces with dual entrances improving flow.

Impressive cocktail knowledge shines behind the bar with Julian crafting drinks. The upstairs lounge features good music and a layout with dual entrances that improves traffic flow for socializing.

The spot has a cool atmosphere with a cute vibe that stands out. Both the vibe and food contribute to its cool feel.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the fried fish and wings."

"The bar staff here makes you feel like a VIP."

"The food and drinks here are cool."

Good to know

1

KANVAS hosts trivia nights every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

2

Live DJ performances occur every Friday night starting at 9pm.

3

Taco Tuesdays feature $2 tacos all night long.

25
Sons of Hermann Hall image 1

Historic building with antique style and intimate atmosphere hosts lively events featuring live music and dancing. Spacious layout includes a two-floor plan and outdoor patio, creating a cozy yet energetic vibe. Crowd reflects true Texas spirit and southern hospitality, making it a popular spot for social gatherings.

Cozy bar with friendly service inside a space that blends a Texas dive bar vibe with a ballroom and bowling alley feel. Mobile vendors sometimes join during special events.

A cool space stands out for creating great memories. It feels welcoming and full of character.

People are saying

"This historic dance spot has so much charm and history."

"I loved the intimate atmosphere for the concert."

"This bar is a perfect Texas dive bar dream space."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging in downtown Dallas, so arrive early.

2

The venue has no food options available, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect a lot of stairs to access the performance area.

26
Cosmo's image 1

Retro dive bar with '70s and '80s decor creates a nostalgic vibe featuring comfy chairs and groovy lighting. Back patio includes a gas fire pit for a laid-back atmosphere. Music ranges from old movies to a stacked jukebox, supporting a relaxed and fun energy.

Dive bar atmosphere blends with divine Asian food and good drinks. Popular local spot offers chill vibes for relaxed evenings.

Dive bar atmosphere creates a cool vibe. Bartenders and staff add to the laid-back charm.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic and delicious."

"It's a retro dive bar with movies playing in the background."

"It's a cool dive bar with groovy lighting and comfy chairs."

Good to know

1

Reservations may depend on who you know; it's best to call ahead.

2

The full menu ends at 11 PM, with a limited late-night menu available.

3

Expect long bathroom lines, which can affect service during busy times.

27
Paparazzi Chophouse image 1

Steak house combines grown and sexy vibes with a lounge atmosphere after 10 p.m., featuring loud music and a private speakeasy-style lounge for events. Tables sit very close together, creating a crowded feel with little privacy. Bartenders craft handcrafted cocktails and the space includes elegant decor with notable wine and liquor displays.

Attentive bar service and kind cocktail waitresses create a welcoming atmosphere. The lounge manager is notably hospitable, and the adjacent lounge offers a seamless night out without extra hassle.

Music sets a classy but relaxed vibe that fits a date night. Restrooms feature a super cool liquor display and spacious, elegant stalls.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"The food here is phenomenal, especially the meatballs."

"The drinks here are delicious and have fun presentations."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $10, but street parking is also an option.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to brunch bills.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

Discover more

Old East Dallas, Dallas

Area guide
Loading Map...