10 of the Best Places to Go After Dark in Dallas

Submitted by admin on Wed, 08/28/2013 - 14:04 - 0 Comments

When the sun goes down and the kids go to bed, there's an entire city full of after-dark hotspots in Dallas that offer up a bit of grown-up fun. Images of cowboys, sawdust floors and swinging doors may come to mind for those who aren't familiar with Dallas, but this world-class city actually boasts a nightlife that can rival the trendiest big cities in America. These are ten of the swankiest or most interesting nightclubs and bars in the Dallas area, and shouldn't be missed while you're in the area.

Dragonfly – The Uptown district is home to the hip, upscale Hotel ZaZa and its high-end outlet Dragonfly. While the restaurant and lounge does serve breakfast and dinner, it truly comes alive when the lights dim and the ambiance peaks. With a stellar wine list and a menu packed with delectable delights, Dragonfly is a surefire hit for a luxurious dinner.
Avenu – If dancing the night away in a hip nightclub strikes your fancy, Avenu is sure to fit the bill. Nestled in the Uptown district, Avenu boasts a wide selection of drinks and the hottest beats in town. A stylish crowd adds an extra layer of elegance, and the over twenty-one age requirement ensures a slightly more mature clientèle.
Cru Wine Bar – If the fruit of a vineyard is more your pace than a dark, crowded dance floor, Cru Wine Bar is a natural choice. Offering wine flights to tempt a variety of palates and artisan cheeses to set off the flavors perfectly, Cru is a relaxed but upscale establishment that's ideal for more low-key nighttime celebrations.
Katy Trail Ice House – There's a lot to be said for lavish, upscale entertainment, but sometimes you'd rather just relax in a casual environment. That's were Katy Trail Ice House comes in to play. Ultra laid-back with a bit of an Austin vibe in the heart of Dallas, the Ice House is the place to go if you're looking for lighthearted, low-pressure fun.
Sharaku Sake Lounge – For a taste of the Far East in the heart of the American West, stop by Sharaku Sake Lounge. With a staggering array of rice wines, Sharaku is a great place to experience sake for the first time. The knowledgeable staff make smooth and delicious introductions to Japanese beverages, while the low-key ambiance makes for a relaxing evening.
The Ginger Man Pub – Boasting one of the largest beer selections in Dallas, The Ginger Man is located in what was once a residential home and boasts all of the attendant charm. Fashioned after a traditional European pub, The Ginger Man offers a friendly staff and a great patio, so be sure to enjoy a bit of brew under the stars while you're in the city.
The Idle Rich Pub – An Irish pub actually owned and operated by Irish-American restaurateurs, The Idle Rich is located in the Uptown district. With tile, furniture and cabinetry built and imported from Ireland, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more authentic Irish pub in Texas.
Two Corks and a Bottle – A wine bar with an eccentric vibe, Two Corks and a Bottle is known almost as well for their interesting theme nights as their stellar wine selection. Stop by on Psychic Night or attend a Wine and Paint party to fully experience the unique and clever after-dark entertainment offered by this Uptown gem.
The Prophet Bar – In the heart of Deep Ellum lies one of the stars in the Dallas live music scene, The Prophet Bar. The intimate venue plays host to both the best in local bands and national touring acts, allowing you to get a real taste of the Dallas music scene while you're out on the town.
Balcony Club– A rare dive bar that offers excellent martinis and a more mature crowd, the Balcony Club offers live jazz bands, a friendly staff and and the air of a speakeasy from days gone by. Charming without being pretentious, The Balcony Club is a favorite of tourists and locals alike.