Apothecary
This cozy lounge is a cocktail haven, connected to culinary haven Rye just next door! Inside, you'll find an intimate bar, dim lighting, and plush seating. To sip, you'll find plenty of Avant Garde cocktails, with rotating seasonal concoctions, elevated takes on classics, and even cuisine-inspired drinks. They even received the Exceptional Cocktail Award from Michelin in 2024!
Lower Greenville | Directions
Atlas
This moody cocktail lounge takes you on a trip around the world, so settle in and get ready to enjoy the journey! Their menu is globally inspired, with food or drink encapsulating a different country or city. Whether you're looking to escape to a night in NYC, a swanky stay in Singapore, or fancy a trip to France, they've got you covered!
Bishop Arts | Directions
Alamo Club
This casual restaurant is as Texan as it gets, serving Southern faves and elevated comfort foods! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the smaller size of the space makes it pleasantly intimate. Indulge in faves like Texas chili queso, pretzel bites, and some of the best burgers in town -- then, wash it all down with a Cadillac marg!
Lower Greenville | Directions
Avanti
A Dallas fixture since 1984, Avanti is a beloved destination for cozy romantic vibes, authentic Italian food, and wines galore. The elegant yet homey space features soft lighting, an enclosed patio, and frequent live jazz music. Stop by on a Monday for half off wines, or grab their date night dinner deal on Wednesdays which features a bottle of wine and three courses!
Uptown | Directions
Ayahuasca Cantina
Ranked one of the best bars in the country by Esquire, Ayahuasca is a moody and intimate speakeasy that transports you to Mexico! Find it in the back of Xaman Cafe, filled with dim lighting, copal burning, and candles throughout. While you're there, warm up with tons of agave spirits, including plenty of smoky mezcal drinks. It's the perfect combination of cozy, romantic, and even a little spooky!
Oak Cliff | Directions
Babou's
Inside the stunning Hotel Swexan, you'll find Babou's, an intimate late-night lounge and nightclub with jazz music, craft cocktails, and an overall sultry and chic atmosphere. On the first floor, you'll also find Library at Babou's, filled with bookcases and comfy furniture. Stop by on Thursday nights for their live jazz sets!
Harwood District | Directions
Barcelona Wine Bar
Nothing says cozy vibes like wine and sharing food with friends! This tapas spot is perfect for a girls' night out, date night, or group outing that feels lively yet intimate. Try dozens of wines, order a few authentic Spanish eats to share, and spend the night enjoying conversation with good company!
Henderon | Directions
Bourbon & Banter
Go back in time at this 1920s-inspired, swanky underground lounge at The Statler! Bourbon & Banter boasts an extensive library of bourbons to warm the soul, along with comfortable booths, vintage photographs, and exposed brick walls. With no windows, you can truly get lost and spend hours here!
Downtown | Directions
BOWEN HOUSE
Bowen House’s vintage house feels, dreamy cocktails and glam bar area feel like stepping into a different era and features a warm, crackling fire as a retreat on cold days! Warm up with spirit cocktails like a classic old fashioned or get fired up for the fall and winter cocktails that have been long overdue this year, who’s ready?! And with the romantic style atmosphere make it a dinner date with a $27 steak special!
Uptown | Directions
CRU Food & Wine Bar
Tucked away in the West Village, CRU feels like a sophisticated retreat for wine lovers! The dim lighting, wood-accented decor, and rich, plush seating make it the perfect spot for date night or a relaxed girls' night out. The extensive wine menu features sips from all over the world, and the menu is full of shareable eats like flatbreads and charcuterie boards. Split a bottle and share a "build your own cheese flight" for the perfect evening!
West Village | Directions
D.L. Mack's
Inspired by the taverns of Chicago, D.L. Mack's is a neighborhood spot you'll keep coming back to. From the exposed brick walls and Chi-town memorabilia to the cold martinis and tavern-style pizzas, it perfectly encapsulates the vibe of the Windy City! Grab a seat in the black leather booths or on the covered patio for a casual hang!
Park Cities & Preston | See locations
Fachini
This Highland Park Italian gem offers big, hearty dishes in an upscale yet cozy space. It's perfect for when you want a fancy night out, but still want to feel right at home! The red leather booths, dramatic chandeliers, and generous portions of handmade pasta do just that.
Highland Park | Directions
FOUNT BOARD & TABLE
Fount is one of our faves for more reasons than just one, but we love the cozy seasonal vibes found inside year round and how the outside looks like an adorable historic home. The posh, moody aesthetic is idyllic for soaking in some much-needed “you time” with a coffee drink and one of their delicious, curated grab-and-go snacking boards!
Uptown | Directions
Harwood Arms
Fancy an evening at the pub?! Harwood Arms is a beloved spot year-round, but especially during the cooler months. The massive booths, fireplaces, and British vibes make it a winter staple. Gather 'round the fire for live music, Guinness pints and scotch galore, along with traditional English fare like beef and barley soup. fish and chips, chicken tikka, and more. Soccer (aka football) fans can count on the bar showing all the matches here too! (Featured header image)
Harwood District | Directions
HONOR BAR
Another one of our patio favorites and apparently, yours too based on responses from our Story survey asking about favorite cozy corners. Located in Highland Park Village, The Honor Bar has that same dark, sultry interior you would find at The Mansion Bar, but more of a California wine country atmosphere out on the patio. It’s shaded by a big tall oak tree and lit by a gorgeous fireplace and patio lights. Next time you are in the area, grab a glass of wine or a martini, and do not forget their Emerald Kale & Rotisserie Chicken Salad! It might be the best salad in town.
Highland Park | Directions
Jaquval Gastropub & Brewery
This new brewery opened earlier this year, from the same owners of beloved spots Oddfellow's and Revelers Hall! The space is filled to the brim with kitschy decor, and the laid-back vibe invites you to stay awhile, sipping on house-made craft brews.
Bishop Arts | Directions
LadyLove Lounge & Sound
A nod to the retro lounge era, LadyLove feels like you've stepped back in time to an old-school bar. Created by the founders of Spinster Records, you're sure to always find groovy tunes here -- all spun on vinyl, of course. Late nights here get pretty lively, but the space still feels intimate with a friendly staff, creative cocktails, and their signature red lighting. Cozy up in the corner or dance the night away under the giant disco ball!
Bishop Arts | Directions
La Reunion
This laid-back, cozy café and bar has a welcoming neighborhood feel with warm lighting, wood decor, and an eclectic menu that spans coffee, cocktails, and gourmet bites. It's a go-to hang in Bishop Arts day or night -- brunch or work remotely over coffee during the day, or sip something stronger at night with a side of live music.
Bishop Arts | Directions
Libertine Bar
A Lower Greenville classic, the Libertine is a must-stop for casual drinks and eats! The patio is warm and welcoming, while the interior is on the dark and moody side. The menu boasts plenty of food and drink deals daily, plus classic bar eats like burgers and poutine. Our go-to drink here is the carajillo!
Lower Greenville | Directions
LOUNGE HERE
If a place can be cozy and vibrant at the same time, Lounge Here has it down to a science with a retro Cali aesthetic! Intimate boots, a plush high top, tables with bucket seats and a private patio all contribute to its charm and the southern small plates to share will definitely have you feeling down home!
Little Forest Hills | Directions
Lucky Dog Saloon
Fans of the iconic Katy Trail Ice House, meet its indoor counterpart! Inspired by the taverns of New York City, this vintage-style pub combines all the moody NYC vibes with Texas-style food and drinks, offering a similar menu to Ice House. The space has a nostalgic feel, with exposed brick walls, cozy booths, and old-fashioned bar fixtures!
Uptown | Directions
Mercat Bistro
Known for its Parisian-inspired interior, Mercat Bistro feels like a little European escape in the heart of Dallas! Elegant bistro tables, floral decor, and a menu rich with French classics create a romantic, quaint atmosphere perfect for brunches and intimate dinners. To really elevate the cozy vibes, order all the comfort foods like soups, roasted veggies, meats, and more.
Harwood | Directions
OLD MONK
The Old Monk patio is one of our favorite spots to be during the fall, and they even host an annual pumpkin carving event! The pub is also known for great seasonal menu options like holiday-themed cocktails, Oktoberfest eats, and a rotating beer list. Settle in with a cup of their Guinness Beef Stew or a beer companion cheeseboard for the perfect autumnal outing.
Henderson & Oak Cliff | See locations
PARLIAMENT
The dim lighting and plush digs at Parliament are stylish but is still a spot that is comfy. We love that it feels like a cushy, members only kind of place with a classic, upscale bar design, mood lighting, and some pretty impressive premium cocktails! And make it an even cozier experience during their rain happy hour with $4 cocktail sips while the rain pours outside!
Uptown | Directions
Spider Murphy's
Spider Murphy's tends to be a lively nightlife spot in the wee hours of the night, but earlier in the evening, it's perfect for a low-key hang! The pub atmosphere features low lighting, old-school bar decor, and dark wood accents. On the menu, you'll find elevated pub fare and craft cocktails -- including one of the best espresso martinis in town.
Henderson | Directions
Revelers Hall
Escape to old New Orleans with jazz music nightly, vintage decor, and Southern eats! The open, brick-walled space and live music make it a lively yet intimate spot, perfect for enjoying po boys, cheese fries, and classic cocktails like an old fashioned. Check their website to see their music schedule, and get there early to secure a spot!
Bishop Arts | Directions
RISE NO. 1
Warm soufflés, darling tableware, French press coffee and warm, French bread just to name a few but the real comfortability at Rise is in the atmosphere which is like walking into a comforting French cafe. At night especially when it’s romantically lit. One of our favorite spots is posting up on the patio when it's completely enclosed with a bowl of their marshmallow soup and a glass of French wine or inside at one of the booths overlooking their fun decor! The tables on the patio are separated by curtains that make it feel like a more intimate dining experience.
Lovers | Directions
RUINS
Ruins puts a trendy, Oaxacan-style spin on the cozy bar atmosphere and flips it into more of a Latin American cocktail den! They serve up after-dinner digestifs like brandy along with agave spirits and other specialties that will have you feeling snug and warm! In fact, their spirit list is extensive so their dark and inviting drinkery is the perfect spot to hole up and find your next favorite drink of choice. (with a side of tacos of course!)
Deep Ellum | Directions
St. Martin's Wine Bistro
St. Martin's is famed for being one of the most romantic restaurants in Dallas! Inside, you'll find dimly lit, elegant French-inspired interiors, intimate table settings, and live piano music that fills the space. A cozy destination for special occasions or a quiet night out, it’s known for its extensive wine list and decadent, French-inspired cuisine.
Old East Dallas | Directions
Taco y Vino
This adorable red and white house in Bishop Arts is one of the most intimate restaurants in town. The small but mighty space and massive wine menu make it the perfect date night spot! Our pro tip? Get the six tacos and a bottle of wine deal, which is honestly a steal at $45.
Bishop Arts | Directions
The Dubliner
An Irish pub with a distinctly cozy, welcoming vibe, The Dubliner offers dark wood interiors, warm lighting, and a solid beer and whiskey selection. Known for its authenticity and charm, it’s a comfortable spot to relax over a pint or two. Indulge in comfort foods from across the pond like Reuben sandwiches, curry fries, shepherd's pie, and more!
Upper Greenville | Directions
The Library Bar
True to its name, The Library Bar has a warm, refined feel reminiscent of an old study, with shelves of books, soft lighting, and opulent leather seating. With cocktails crafted to perfection and a sophisticated vibe, it’s an ideal place for intimate conversations and relaxing with a drink. We highly recommend grabbing a seat by the fireplace!
Oak Lawn | Directions
THE MANSION BAR
It’s hard to beat an evening in this regal resting place just a few blocks from the heart of Uptown nightlife. It’s quiet (unless you’re there for live jazz on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday nights), dark, and intimate. Grab a Mansion G&T, their signature drink, and an order of truffle fries ($5 on Mondays!) and relax as Hunter Sullivan or some other classic crooner serenades the upscale crowd posted up fireside. This is NYC’s classic Bemelmans Bar’s Texas twin, and we are continuously smitten by its sophistication.
Turtle Creek | Directions
The Standard Pour
From fireplaces and dim lighting to giant booths and funky 20s accents, a night at the Standard Pour feels like you're in someone's living room in all the best ways. On the menu (and lining the walls) you'll find dozens of bourbons -- it's even been named one of the best bars for it in America for ten years running. Beyond bourbon, you'll find plenty of craft cocktails, a great happy hour, and elevated bar bites like pretzels, burgers, and more.
Uptown | Directions
The Wild Detectives
There's nothing better than curling up with a good book, and Wild Detectives is one of our favorite spots to do just that. Beyond being one of the best bookstores in Dallas, they're also a coffee shop and bar, open day to night! They're shaking and stirring up classic comfort drinks, like a Hot Toddy, Irish Coffee, Old Fashioned, and more. The patio is a favorite of ours in the cooler months, with string lights and occasional live music or poetry readings!
Bishop Arts | Directions
