If you’re not already up to your eyeballs in string lights, inflatable lawn reindeer, and gift-giving anxiety, then welcome! It is the season. Bring on the mulled wine and spiced cider cocktails! Eggnog? Pour me two.
Whether you’ve yet to deck your own halls, the following restaurants and bars have decorated with the enthusiasm of a North Pole elf. Which is to say, a lot. Drink something unabashedly holiday-themed inside spaces that look like someone gift wrapped a Christmas tree and then it exploded—festively! We’ve got intel on holiday pop-ups and places that have ushered in Christmas decor with the intensity of Clark Griswold.
Holiday Pop-Ups & Festive Spaces
Sippin’ Santa
In the space that formerly housed Hide cocktail bar—and what will soon be RoPo and Logan, a forthcoming Midwestern-style bar from the Hide team—find Sippin’ Santa Holiday in Hawaii pop-up. The previously sleek cocktail clime has morphed into a tropical oasis harboring tiki-esque drinks with some festive flair. The Kris Kringle Colada has all the makings of the piña version with the addition of allspice liqueur. Meanwhile, the White Russian Christmas throws in a dash of ancho chile liqueur and cold brew coffee into the usual milky vodka concoction. Need a quick pick-me-up? The Nice shot (gingerbread-spiced rye) or Naughty shot (cinnamon-spiced bourbon) oughta do it. Walk-ins only; 90-minute time limit.
Ends Dec 31 | 2816 Elm St.
Tipsy Elf
Inside the little white house on the corner of Bishop Avenue and Melba Street, gift-wrapped walls and Christmas tree ornaments proliferate: Tipsy Elf is back. And it’s bigger than last year. The pop-up spills into next door neighbor Mermaid Raw Bar & Champagne Room’s outdoor patio. Whether indoors or out, Larry the Elf will be snapping pics and hosting events, such as Nights with Daddy Santa, an Ugly Sweater Party, Drag Bingo with Queen of the North Pole Mrs. Claus aka Gloria Devine, and Naughty Cookie Decorating. Walk-ins only; available for private events and holiday parties with advanced reservations.
All Holiday Season | 308 N. Bishop Ave.
Winter Wonderland at St. Henry
Get downright cozy at The Henry’s holiday pop-up on the rooftop in Uptown. Order the St. Henry’s Schnapps Flight, with apple, cinnamon, butterscotch and Fernet Branca, or go the winter-mint route with a tipple of Junior & Mrs. Mint (vanilla-infused Belvedere vodka, white chocolate, and peppermint schnapps). Also: lots of savory and sweet bites, such as warm croissant bread pudding, to keep spirits bright. (Larger parties are encouraged to book a private space.) Reservations encouraged.
Thru Jan 2 | 2301 N. Akard St.
Miracle at the Adolphus
Bundle up under an igloo at Miracle at the Adolphus. Order from its Christmas themed cocktail menu. Editor’s pick: The Honey Bear Eggnog. Then join in on one of Dallas’ most revered holiday traditions: Holiday Tea at The Adolphus, which includes three courses, two teas, and a glass of champagne.
Thru Jan 15 | 1321 Commerce St.
Winterproof Ski Club
The Statler’s rooftop bar and lounge has transformed into a club ski resort for the holiday season: Winterproof. While we can’t guarantee there’s any skiing involved whatsoever, you can cuddle up inside your own personal snow cloud (these pods can seat up to eight people). Snow clouds and chalets (pool cabanas) must be reserved in advance via Resy.
All Holiday Season | 1914 Commerce St.
Howl-idays at Toller Patio
This spacious outdoor lounge on Ross Avenue is the place to be this season, especially with the pups in tow. Toller Patio will have the fire pits blazing—perfect for s’mores kits and tipping back boozy (or not) hot cocoa in Toller mugs—every Sunday from noon to 2 p.m., Santa Paws will be there for photos ($10). Dogs, kiddos, and elves are all welcome.
Ongoing, with a Santa and Elves Party on Dec 11, 3–11 p.m. | 3675 Ross Ave.
Roy G’s
The Oak Lawn neighborhood bar is serving up craft cocktails as colorful as the string lights and ornaments that adorn the foyer. Try the Jingleberry Twist with house-made cranberry syrup, green chartreuse, vodka, and just a hint of lemon. For a warm-up, go for the Enchanted Mistletoe: Illegal mezcal, Campari, Punt e Mes, house-made rosemary syrup, rosemary sprig, and cranberry-infused ice cube.
All Holiday Season | 4001 Cedar Springs Rd.
Miracle at Royal38
The Uptown bar and sibling to Hide is making miracles come true this season. And by Miracle we mean spirited cocktails like Fruitcake Flip made with brandy, rum, amaretto, and something called fruitcake syrup. Walk-ins only, dinner menu available, valet parking, 90-minute limit.
Ends Dec 31 | 2301 N. Akard St., Suite 210
Campo Verde
This favorite near Arlington is one of the OGs of going all-out for the holidays. Bask in the kaleidoscope of festive garlands, snowflakes, and tiny Santas. Is your Ghost of Christmas Past getting on your last nerve? Gulp down a 27-ounce Texas marg for $8.50. If you’re hungry, try the marinated and charbroiled elk or some tender yet lean bison fajitas.
All Holiday Season | 2918 W Pioneer Pkwy, Dalworthington Gardens
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Hudson House
This Highland Park go-to has mounted all the makings of a Christmas tree on the ceiling, under which you sip espresso martinis and dig into Velvet Chicken and Waffles.
All Holiday Season | 4448 Lovers Ln.
Leela’s
Missing the snow this season? The wine bar in Lowest Greenville has the frostiest furnishes. Choose from a variety of wine selections from deep reds to smooth whites, bubbly champagne to rosé all under a sky of dainty snowflakes. But don’t miss the Orna-mint, a fruity blend of strawberry hibiscus gin, lemongrass syrup, Topo Chico, and mint served in an elegant ornament-shaped glass.
All Holiday Season | 1914 Greenville Ave.
Double Wide
This Dallas dive bar celebrates Christmas in pure Texan fashion. Crack a cold one with the boys (and gals) by the lit-up shrine to Barry Manilow—just next to the toilets, can’t miss ‘em. Dawn thy gayest apparel among the bright lights, poinsettias, pink flamingos, and cacti and drink to the tune of Dallas’ underground music scene.
All Holiday Season | 3510 Commerce St.
Thompson Dallas
In true Texas fashion, this luxury hotel went big—huge!—on Christmas installations. With more than 12 miles of jolly lights and enough pine to rival the Evergreen State, the downtown hotel brings decor fit for your holiday greeting cards. No need to stay home alone this year.
All Holiday Season | 205 N. Akard St.
