Looking for a more relaxed vibe away from the noise of crowded bars? There’s no shade on the lively hangouts, but sometimes you need a spot that’s chill and low-key. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy neighborhood pub or a new hotel bar, these hidden gems have the perfect atmosphere, plus most offer happy hour specials — and who doesn’t love a good deal?
Here’s where to drink in Dallas right now:
Cannon’s Corner Irish Pub
This Oak Cliff Irish pub, located in the charming Tudor-style building at 1314 W. Davis St. in Cannon’s Village, is the go-to neighborhood spot. Their weekday happy hour runs from 2-7 pm, offering $4.75 wells, $8 Irish mules, $5 red ale, and $4.50 domestic beers. Food specials include $7 mussels, corned beef & cabbage rolls, and Irish nachos. Don’t miss their Wednesday whiskey discounts, with select bottles over $12 half off all day.
Kleo
Tucked inside the Hotel Indigo in Las Colinas, which opened in December, Kleo offers a Mediterranean-inspired bar experience. Sip on unique drinks like the Mediterranean Old Fashioned with spice cordial and cocoa bitters, the Turkish Fire Drill, or the Tzatziki Martini made with dill-infused Bombay and blanc vermouth. Visit for happy hour Monday-Thursday from 2-6 pm when cocktails are half price.
Rayo
This cool bar in Exposition Park, just across from Fair Park, opened in mid-2024. The brainchild of two former Portland bartenders, Rayo offers a quirky yet refined cocktail and food menu. Happy hour runs Tuesday-Friday from 4-6 pm with $7 margaritas, $8 slushies, $6 daily punch, and $5 Modelo. Their Spit Fire slider — featuring spicy chorizo, Wagyu beef, Swiss, guacamole, caramelized onions, grilled jalapeños, chili powder, and a quail egg on brioche — is a must-try.
Rodeo Cold
A throwback 1970s dive and backyard bar that opened in East Dallas in late 2024, Rodeo Cold offers happy hour specials Tuesday-Friday from 3-7 pm, including $5 bottled and draft beers, $5 ranch water, palomas, and The Man from Waco. If you’re in the mood for something to share, grab the glittery cocktail “The Dolly” made with Pink Whitney vodka, peach schnapps, and pink lemonade for $45. Snack on tasty bites like smash burgers, patty melts, and chili dogs for just $6 each, or enjoy stacked fries for $8.
Saint Valentine
This East Dallas bar, co-owned by renowned cocktail expert Gabe Sanchez (Black Swan Saloon), has a happy hour Wednesday-Sunday from 5-8 pm. On Wednesdays, enjoy $1 wings while sipping on classic drinks like $8 daiquiris and margaritas, or a dirty gin or vodka martini for $10. Try the Yo Kolby! with High Life Pony and Fernet Blanc for $8. If you’re hungry, grab the “happy meal” — a black garlic burger and fries for $12.
Stan’s Blue Note
A beloved neighborhood sports bar on Greenville Avenue, Stan’s Blue Note is one of the oldest bars in Dallas, opening in 1952. It’s the perfect spot to catch a game or grab a beer with friends, and their drink specials are some of the best in town. Monday-Friday from 4-7 pm, enjoy 99-cent Busch Light drafts, $2 wells, and $1 hot dogs and tacos. They also host a new late-night girls’ night on Saturdays, starting at 10 pm, with $5 wine, White Claws, and frozen espresso martinis.
