A Bar For All Seasons
I’m a seasonal drinker. I don’t just sip from a longneck 365 days a year. Instead, I adapt my consumption to be more in tune with the season. In summer there’s nothing better than a cold Dos Equis or Corona by the pool, but on a cold winter day I will choose mulled wine or spiced rum and cider first every time. That being said, I also prefer to sit by a fireplace over a patio in January. So where do I go to best enjoy my wintertime drinking? I’ve got a couple suggestions for a night out alone, with your friends or a date that are sure to keep you warm until this cold snap is over (so in four weeks or so).
Best Spot to Fly Solo
Cosmo’s – Often hailed as possessing the ‘Best Jukebox in Dallas,’ Cosmo’s is the place to go for a good (strong) drink, good tunes and a great fire. It’s unassuming and you’ll see people of all shapes and sizes hanging out in groups or flying solo. Depending who you ask, Cosmo’s can be defined as ‘retro,’ ‘hip,’ ‘scummy,’ ‘trendy,’ or ‘hipster.’ However, one thing everyone agrees on is ‘fun.’
Runners Up: Luna de Noche at North Park to get a break from shopping or La Madeline for a nice treat during your work lunch.
Best Spot to Go With (Furry) Friends
Lee Harvey’s – Whenever I go to Lee Harvey’s it’s like I’m stumbling onto a great block party where my invitation got lost in the mail. The first time I spotted this bar was while walking with a friend and her dog. We lingered outside the chain link fence before deciding to drop the pup off and returning for some cocktails by the fire - until we noticed all the other dogs chilling with their owners. That’s right, friends, Lee Harvey’s is dog friendly so grab your pooch and your pals and a thirst for some Lone Star and pull a bench up to the fire.
Runners Up: Capitol Pub, The Loon (but leave the furry kids at home)
Best Spot to Set the Mood
Wood Fire Kirby’s – Formerly Kirby’s Steakhouse on Greenville, this hot spot on a cold night has a trick up its sleeve – build your own s’mores. Or should I be more specific and say build your own s’mores with Wood Fire Kirby’s homemade marshmallows? Yea, homemade marshmallows. . .believe it. The food’s just as good as Kirby’s has always been so bring a date, get a bottle of wine (or two) and some s’mores for the perfect winter date night.
Runners Up: NYLO, Mercy Wine Bar
Joe Flowers is an almost native Texan who spends his days working in communications for a non-profit association and his nights scouring the city for the best drinks and eats. You can find his reviews on Yelp (http://unhatched.yelp.com) or read about his personal culinary exploits on his blog (http://unhatched.posterous.com) or on Twitter (@unhatched).
