In a time when first dates rarely involve a sit-down dinner, much less a movie, meeting for a drink is the natural compromise between too formal and too casual — not to mention too much and too little time to get to know your potential suitor.
Whether you’ve been set up with a friend of a friend or a swipe from your smart phone, these five spots will give you a good talking point, even if the conversation doesn’t come easy. With casual atmospheres and fun drink menus to give you a little liquid courage, you’ll (hopefully) be raising a glass to a second date. And, if things do go well, give these new restaurants a try for date No. 2.
Frankie’s Sports Bar
For those who prefer baseball games to black-tie affairs and cowboy boots to cocktail dresses, Frankie’s will feel like home. Your only problem will be deciding what to order from the extensive beer and food menu. Catch your sporting game of choice on one of dozens of TVs, or shoot some pool. Just watch out for those super-competitive types.
Martin House Brewing Company
Unpretentious yet very Instagram-worthy, Martin House takes tasty beers with clever names (try a Salty Lady) and brews them right along the banks of the Trinity River. Go on a Thursday evening or Saturday afternoon to catch a brewery tour, then grab a bite from one of the local food trucks on hand. For $10, you’ll get a tour, three pours, and a pint glass to take home. Sit and small talk below a killer view of downtown Fort Worth or take a walk along the Trinity. Plus, Martin House rents out its brewery for weddings, so you never know.
The Social House
With a name like the Social House, this bar and restaurant combo in the West Seventh corridor sets the stage for a successful first encounter. Happy hour runs every weekday for better bang for your buck on cocktails, beer, and appetizers. Cozy up by a fire at the outdoor patio for a get-to-know-you rendezvous, or use this West Seventh staple as a starting point for your night on the town.
White Elephant Saloon
First, ask if your date believes in ghost stories. Next, tell the story of “Longhair Jim” Courtright, the not-so-law-abiding Fort Worth sheriff who was shot and killed by White Elephant owner Luke Short in 1887. Finally, head to the saloon in question and wait for a sign from the shady sheriff. If that doesn’t work, grab a drink and listen to live music, played every night of the week.
Wine Fusion Winery
Take a miniature road trip to Grapevine with your new suitor. Wannabe sommeliers and those who know the difference in Merlot and Malbec will feel welcome at Wine Fusion. Try choosing each other’s vino with the five pour tasting for $11, or split a bottle recommended by the waiter. After the wine, window shop while strolling along Main Street.
Break the ice on a first date by grabbing a drink at one of these fun night spots.
