Dallas Nightlife

Although Deep Ellum arguably functions as Dallas's cutting-edge district, parts of it maintain a long-standing commitment to simpler times. Take, for example, a honky-tonk like Adair's Saloon, which has been popular since 1963. The digs (in the early days, it was on Cedar Springs Road) and faces may have changed over the years, but other aspects haven't. Adair's remains a rustic haven for folks who like to swill brew, listen to live music, and munch on good burgers. For history buffs, too, the joint holds an allure, courtesy of a jukebox loaded with classics by Hank Sr. and Bob Wills, along with hundreds of framed photos and graffiti.

A Deep Ellum legend, Club Dada is the place where Edie Brickell and the New Bohemians got started back in the late 80s. Dada may have the best patio in the city, with trees and benches in the back of the club. The music is eclectic, but the musicianship is always strong. Open mic night on Sundays at 9pm.

Eight Lounge has an urban attitude that's trendy without being overly self-absorbed. Skilled DJs create an upbeat atmosphere by mixing exotic world music. The room's focal point is an enchanting water wall visible from the club's entrance. VIP seating and semi-private booths, as well as plenty of space for mingling, make this a favorite get-together spot for both small and large groups. Specialty cocktails round out the Eight experience.

3912 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX 75219
214-522-9611

Music: Country, House, Techno
Dress: Business Casual, Casual

Two-stepping, tight denim, and 10-gallon hats attract Big D's best-looking cowboys to Round-Up Saloon, which caters to a mostly gay clientele. Chipping in on the joint's popularity are great drink specials (Margarita Madness on Mondays, 22-oz. drafts for three bucks every day) and a calendar full of fun weekly activities like karaoke, line dancing (lessons are free), and Friday and Saturday's Howdy Hour. Of course, the top crowd pleasers are "duded-up" events like Miss Gay Round Up, Miss Cinco de Mayo, and the Switch-Hitters Ball.

Classy and elegant, the Library Bar warmly greets patrons with dark woods, comfortable sofas, upholstered chairs, and stately bookshelves lined with classic titles. Guests enjoy quiet conversation while listening to the melodies of the house pianist and nibbling on tasty hors d'oeuvres from the hotel's prestigious restaurant, Landmark. Happy hour is Monday through Friday, 5pm-7pm.

2012 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
214-887-0071

Music: Hip-Hop, House, Reggae, Trance
Dress: Trendy

A young, hip, professional crowd fills trendy Zúbar, which is a perfect spot for relaxing, meeting new people, and listening to great music. The intimate interior features bright colors, large, comfy sofas, and casual ambience, all reminiscent of a private loft apartment. An exceptional drink menu is sure to please, but remember to don your best attire – it's a see-and-be-seen sort of place.

An air of exoticism sets Minc apart from other venues, courtesy of bamboo screens, sculpture, stone masks, and Asian lanterns. Despite its Zen trappings, the place regularly ripples with energy. On DJ nights, techno, reggae, and hip-hop provide background rhythms, and furnished spaces indoors and out create a comfortable place to party, mingle, or just relax. When guests seek a retreat from the edgy bar, chaises and futons in the adjoining room ably accommodate. The patio – which resembles a Japanese garden with its pond, fountain, and wicker meditation stools – offers another escape. While mixed drinks are a hit, you can also partake of a hookah for $10-20 for 45 minutes.

Laid-back and plenty of fun, this lodge is operated by the Sons of Hermann Association. It books an eclectic mix of entertainment so that on Wednesday nights, you'll find swing dancing while Thursdays showcase acoustic jam sessions, and happy hours (5pm-8pm) draw big crowds on weekends. The place has been around since 1911 and has hosted a variety of bands, from big names to promising local talents. When no groups perform, DJs mix it up and pack the dance floor with willing patrons.

Set in a quaint house, the Ginger Man features an outstanding collection of imported and domestic beers as well as a large selection of international wines. On-tap beers number over 70, and the bottled varieties total over 100. Indeed, the pub outdoes itself by offering rare Belgian ales, British and German beers and local microbrews. An upstairs lounge, balcony and an inviting outdoor beer garden that often features live local talent give the place added appeal.

Live jazz and a romantic, intimate ambience set the stage for an evening at Balcony, located in the historic Lakewood Theatre. A mixed clientele, from young professionals to students, sip martinis and listen as throaty jazz singers croon their favorite melodies. A small outdoor patio, comfortable booths and an assortment of stools and tables provide seating, and there's room enough for standing and mingling. The full bar also provides a nice selection of single malt scotches.