It’s back to school szn, and what better way to celebrate than grabbing drinks with the squad? With the August heat beating down on Texas, try these fun, refreshing summer cocktails at some of our favorite Dallas spots.
1. HG Sply Co
Need to hit the gym? Grab a Mean Green from HG Sply. Made with Buddha’s Brew Kombucha, ginger, kale and gin, this refreshing cocktail will have you ready for Saturday night without the guilt.
2. HIDE
Deep Elm’s HIDE is a recent addition to the Dallas bar scene. Making nearly all of their ingredients on-site with fresh ingredients, HIDE perfects classic cocktails while pushing the envelope on new, innovative concoctions. Don’t forget to try their snack menu, too; including Dirty Tots with Oaxaca cheese sauce and pickled jalapeños, and twice fried wings. You can’t go wrong with any of the drink choices here, but we love the Yass Betch on tap. Served over crushed ice with vodka, mint, cucumber, honeydew and clarified lime, this light choice is sure to start your night off right.
3. Uchi
Uchi takes a different approach to cocktails. Not offering liquor, choose one of their sake-based creations. The Kara Kyuri with Thai chili and the Haibisukasu with hibiscus are unique, refreshing, and insta-worthy, but the Lavender Rose takes the cake. Made with sake, grapefruit and rose water, it’s exceedingly simple. But sometimes less is more.
4. Mesero
Mesero is an awesome spot for both brunch and Friday night dinners. Whipping up some amazing chilaquiles and a delicious side of chipotle grits, Mesero balances traditional favorites with new Mexican-American fusions. Feeling adventurous? Try the Jalepina, with fresh pineapple, tequila, and jalepeños.
5. Rapscallion
This Lowest Greenville watering hole boasts an extensive drink menu and some killer southern staples with a twist. Grab some house roasted rotisserie chicken or some crisp wild soft shell crabs along with the Fancy Bloke. Made with gin, peach, ginger, hibiscus honey, and light citrus notes, this fresh cocktail is sure to please.
6. Henry’s Majestic
Henry’s Majestic is well known and well loved by Dallas natives and college students alike. With live music on the weekends, a mimosa bar for brunch, and a rustic chic vibe, Henry’s Majestic feels like home. Order a Summer Bird Smash, complete with St. Germain, vodka, pineapple, lime, and fresh pulled mint, and cheers to the first weekend out of many.
7. Gloria’s
With roots as a small Salvadorian eatery in Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood, Gloria’s has become a well known Texas favorite, spanning across the state. While Gloria’s has grown in scale, it has yet to lose it’s high quality and charm. Summertime in Vallarta is quintessentially summer, and will transport you to a tropical latin coast. Made fresh with Patrón Silver, pomegranate juice, fresh lime, and agave, this cocktail will take your usual skinny marg order to the next level.
8. Saint Ann
Some of us are more adventurous than others. Are wild cocktails not your cup of tea? Head over to Saint Ann (one of the best brunch spots in the city) for a wine flight. Refine your vino palette, and order their legendary charcuterie while you’re at it.
Personally, back to school is one of my favorite times of year. Celebrate being reunited with your squad at any of these amazing spots, and get ready to take on boulevard szn one weekend at a time.