The best dive bars in Dallas, TX let you skip pricey cocktails and get straight to what counts: Frothing taps and unique nightlife atmosphere. You’ll find cold brews, karaoke, and live music at the following selections, with the Big D home to some of the hottest spots in the country, including venues so warm and welcoming that you may find quickly yourself becoming a new regular. Hit the list to find your new happy hour or Friday night chill-out spot. What’s guaranteed are good vibes, cold beer, and tasty bar bites at these, some of the best dive bars in Dallas.
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5818 Live Oak St |
Self-described “upscale dive bar,” Lakewood Landing serves refreshing cocktails and tasty eats. Dive bars aren’t normally known for serving five-star burgers, but Lakewood Landing has set the standard for more upmarket dive bar fare. If the wood paneling doesn’t make you feel at home, maybe the vinyl seating will. |
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1212 Skillman St |
The vibe at Cosmo’s is straight out of Eric Foreman’s basement, with ’70s-style décor. Gather around the jukebox or relax at the fireplace with a fresh slice of ’za. Mellow vibes abound, but don’t let yourself be found without a sweet cocktail in your hand. |
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7248 Gaston Ave |
Grunge meets blues at The Goat. It’s a must visit on Tuesday for ladies night ($1 off drinks and free pool), and you can sing your heart out on Wednesdays and Sundays at karaoke events. Local bands grace the stage every weekend. And you can visit just about any time when doors open at 7AM. |
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5334 Lemmon Ave |
The Ivy offers great food and drinks at dive bar prices. The famous chili cheese fries are a must-try. And if the weather is nice, take your brews outside to the patio to soak up some sunshine. |
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3902 Maple Ave |
The Grapevine welcomes everyone “as long as you check your attitude at the door.” What more could you want? One of our top picks in terms of the best dive bars in Dallas, The Grapevine also offers rooftop seating with stunning views, a basketball court, and a big screen showing your favorite games. |
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1807 Gould St |
This hole-in-the-wall offers decades-old light-up beer signs and a comfy selection of drinks. The kitchen is open seven days a week, making it the ideal spot to stop for a pint or a bite. Post up at a fireside picnic table to feel the heat. |
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5320 Maple Ave |
Windmill Lounge doesn’t play around when it comes to drink specials. We’re talking $3 cocktails – probably how they’ve earned a stable of regulars.The patio is the ideal chill spot and the jukebox will keep the music coming. |
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2624 Commerce St |
Extended weekend happy hours run from 2 to 8PM and live music make a stop at Adair’s a necessity. The beer is cheap and the atmosphere is friendly. And country music fans will like this place even more for the local bands that perform here. |
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1613 Greenville Ave |
Cash is king at Ships (they don’t take credit cards). The regulars are on the older side, but happy to have newcomers in their midst. Bring your own liquor and Ships will supply you with ice and a glass for a few dollars. |
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2843 W Davis St |
Tradewinds features all your dive bar staples, from pool to karaoke. Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 7PM with $2.50 domestics and $3 well drinks. Come here for pizza and beer galore – you’ll be glad you did. |
Cheat Sheet
Dive into more on the best dive bars in Dallas, TX with help from the following handy guides:
Assistant Editor Ciara is a DC native and East Coast roamer with degrees in both English Professional Writing and Drama & Theatre Studies from Elon University. She's written for a variety of publications including Highway 64, Travel Writing at Elon, and Odyssey. More of her work can be found at ciaracorcoran.com.
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