Parker Barrows, a Bishop Arts bar and deli, is a quiet reference to the (usually mononymous) outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. The black-and-white color scheme, compact space, solid booze and food offerings, and subtle Great Depression-era feel do well to uphold the understated theme. The result is a friendly, accessible bar that should become your new hangout.
The Atmosphere: PB’s décor consists of black-and-white wallpaper and old photos of the infamous Dallas-area crime duo. The space is relatively small, with red stools, counter-style seating, and a couple of tables in the middle. Carefully arranged ale barrels make up the display behind the bar (with a TV nestled in the middle). On nice days, the prominent front windows pop open for additional outdoor seating. You can order one of their New York-style deli gourmet sandwiches (laden with pastramis and prosciuttos) until 10 p.m. most days.
What to Drink: There are 24 taps that vend a craft-y mix of ales, ciders, stouts, lagers, and one root beer. There are also 12 cocktails – six classics and six seasonals. Look to the classics for beloved vintage concoctions such as the martini (c. 1890), blood and sand (c.1945), and old-fashioned (c.1800). PB’s current seasonal cocktails have cheeky names like “Rye Not, Bonnie?” (rye whisky with lemon and ginger) and “Life of Sin” (a citrusy, fruity rum concoction).
The Bartenders: The bartenders are personable, accommodating, and eager to help you navigate the menu.
Who’s There: The bar is open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on the weekends, so the crowd is a mix: sandwich aficionados in for a lunch date, day drinkers, beer lovers, and plenty of suburbanites who wander in after a day of trendy urban shopping. The place fills up fast but has a cozy, communal feel that’s very welcoming.
What I Didn’t Like: The menu is seriously meat-tastic. How about some more veg-friendly sandwich options? A filling, creative, deli-style vegan sandwich is basically my personal holy grail.
What I Did Like: Honestly, just about everything else, but especially the vibe. Laid-back, friendly, casual – PB is a great addition to the Bishop Arts District.
