This is where the true essence of the city comes to life. In this insider's guide, we've tapped into the rich expertise of local residentsto bring you an exclusive list of the restaurants, bars and other hangouts that real, walking, talking Fort Worth residents recommend the most. Whether you're born-and-raised or a newcomer eager to explore the local flavors, these handpicked recommendations promise an authentic dining adventure that embodies the city's vibrant culture. Get ready to savor a symphony of tastes as we unveil the best Fort Worth restaurants, bars and hangouts, all vetted and endorsed by those who know it best—fellow locals.
1. Blackland Distillery
Where can you find espresso martinis on draft and one of the best deals in town — for a cocktail, a distillery tour, a spirit tasting flight and a full craft cocktail for just $30? At Blackland Distillery, silly. They take a modern, tech-focused approach to distilling which creates a clean, vibrant take on vodka, gin, bourbon, rye and their famous Texas pecan brown sugar bourbon. The tasting room oozes elegance and will make you feel like you’re at a chic bar in Manhattan — such a vibe.
2. Goat and Vine
Montgomery Plaza has a real winner in Goat and Vine Winery. The space and design is immaculate — it's easily one of Fort Worth's prettiest restaurants. We loved the goat cheese bites and the table-side spaghetti al formaggio parmigiano, but our favorite entree was absolutely the truffle Cacio e Pepe!
3. Summer Moon Cafe
The only place to get wood-fired coffee infused with genuine Moon Milk is at Fort Worth's Summer Moon Cafe. The secret ingredient is a signature sweet cream that is light and refreshing in every drink on the menu. They've also got great sandwiches and light bites! We're loving the Raspberry Moon Drop and the Whisper Moon on their seasonal menu.
4. THompson's Bookstore
This four-story bar and bookstore comes complete with a hidden speakeasy for your next date over drinks! Thompson's is located in the historic Vybeck Building in Downtown Fort Worth, and now, after the building's last remodel, you can access all four stories of the building: the bookstore, the speakeasy, the event space and the premium cigar lounge! Plus the bars on each floor have their own unique specialty cocktails! Enjoy!
5. Maria's Mexican Kitchen
This is the most Instagrammable hot spot in Fort Worth, where stunning interiors meet delicious cuisine. Marias Mexican Kitchen is the place to be, with its visually striking decor, beautiful patio with a waterfall feature, and a floral-filled bar. Indulge in their fantastic dishes, such as the ahi tuna salad and enchiladas tres colores, and don't miss out on their perfectly crafted cocktails, like the skinny margarita that tastes just like the real deal. Gather your friends, tag them along, and get ready to capture the perfect gram-worthy moments at Maria's Mexican Kitchen.
6. Branch and Bird
Branch & Bird, perched high above Sundance Square in Downtown Fort Worth, might be the nicest place in DFW where you can still get a $3 beer at Happy Hour. It's up on the Sky Lobby Level of the Frost Tower, and the views are just immaculate. But the Happy Hour deals are not to be trifled with, either. Tuesday through Friday from 4-6 p.m., enjoy $3 domestic beers, $5 craft beers, Margaritas, featured cocktails and wine by the glass, PLUS food deals as low as $6, too. It's so picturesque, and at Happy Hour, it's a steal of a deal, high in the sky.
7. HOTEL DROVER
Nestled right in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards, Hotel Drover is inspired by all things Texas with influences from the cattle and cowboys that roam the streets! And, since this luxury hotel is located in the historic Stockyards, it's the perfect staycation with easy access to all the restaurants, shops, cattle drive, and more you can explore in the area! Plus, Hotel Drover has its own stunning restaurant and bars with an outdoor patio that overlooks beautiful views of Fort Worth. So, whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or you're celebrating a special occasion, Hotel Drover is the best spot to unwind over a glass of wine!
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8. Free Play Arcade
Tap into your inner child and have the best night of retro gaming whenever you visit Free Play Arcade! You'll find 90+ fan-favorite games, like Pac-Man and Galaga, that will make you feel SUPER nostalgic as you battle it out for the new high score. And, since all of the retro arcade games are set to "free play" mode, you can play as many games as you'd like for however long you'd like for just an $11.99 entry fee! While you're there, we highly recommend sharing a few retro themed drinks and eats before heading up to Free Play's secret tiki rooftop bar, Slushy's, for a great view of Fort Worth!
9. Morgan Mercantile
Morgan's Mercantile is perhaps the CUTEST boutique in town, and they welcome you with a free beverage while you shop! Seriously, this is the cutest boutique with adorable graphic tees, fun Fort Worth themed items, and other odds and ends that make for great gifts for yourself or someone special! They also offer custom embroidery, graphic design and printing work if you need something special for your own business!
10. Clearfork
If you need a bite or a little retail therapy while out walking the Trinity Trails, there is no place better to satisfy the urge than the Shops at Clearfork. The open-air shopping, dining and entertainment destination is anchored by Neiman Marcus, Pinstripes and AMC Dine-In Clearfork 8. There are a sampling of retailers, including luxury boutiques like Burberry, Tiffany & Co., Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, market exclusive retailers like Tory Burch, Tommy Bahama, TUMI and Q Clothier, as well as popular retailers such as Alo Yoga, Kendra Scott, francesca's, Everything But Water, and many more to choose from.
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