The best bars for business: Dallas-Fort Worth

Dallas-Fort Worth’s best bar for . . . 

IYKYK experiences

Red Phone Booth 

Tucked away beneath the Grandscape lies this Prohibition-style speakeasy. The menu includes classic cocktails, an impressive list of Scotch, and cigars—smoking is allowed inside. Procure the entry code ahead of time. There is a dress code, and remember: The customer is not always right here, per house rules (seriously). 

Professional networking 

Dakota’s Steakhouse 

It’s easy to miss the entrance to this underground downtown steakhouse. Behind the valet stand lies an elevator that descends into dual dining rooms, one with a glassed-in waterfall. It’s a solid spot for a work lunch or dinner, but don’t overlook the bar for happy hour, networking, and trading tall tales. 

Celebrating a company win   

Nuri  

In a city rich with steakhouses, Nuri stands out. The menu features Korean-, New Orleans-, and Texas-inspired fare, while Asian ingredients can be found in the cocktail menu. The stunning decor includes a centerpiece made from the back of a milk truck that serves as a chandelier over the bar.  

Entertaining clients 

Cattlemen’s Steakhouse 

If you’re looking for the cowboy experience, put this at the top of your list. Cattlemen’s has been slinging steaks and drinks for nearly 80 years. Wagon wheels, cowboy memorabilia, and the flavor of Cowtown define the wood-covered space, of which Yellowstone showrunner Taylor Sheridan is a co-owner. 

Confidential conversation 

Stillwell’s  

This Michelin-recognized steakhouse with a horseshoe-shaped bar sits inside the Harwood District Hôtel Swexan. Belly up and try the creative, Texas-inspired cocktails from a cozy, leather-clad barstool or at one of the handful of tables that don’t require a reservation. Wear your boots (but no hat).

A team happy hour

Thompson’s Bookstore Speakeasy 

Fort Worth loves speakeasies, and this one’s a hometown favorite. Treat your team to daily happy-hour specials (all day on Monday!) in the front room resembling a bookstore. Then explore the hidden back rooms, including a small library, a cigar bar, and a Prohibition-style hideaway—if you can get the password. 

A spontaneous post-deal dance party 

Cigars International 

Sure, this is a cigar store in the ‘burbs. But on any night, the bare-bones space fills up with a crowd full of shoulder-shaking cigar aficionados sipping on whiskies and Scotch while the DJ blasts the room with retro hip-hop and R&B. Show up and show out.

Photography by Bethany Ellen Ochs