Where to Drink
Where to drink in Fort Worth right now: 5 craft cocktails full of holiday cheer
The holidays provide festive inspiration for bartenders, many who take the opportunity to craft whimsical cocktail recipes with fun and kitschy holiday names. And with so many reasons to celebrate — good health, a prosperous year, or simply making spirits bright — there’s an occasion for every drink on our list. Some are a little sweet, some a little potent, but all are sure to bring plenty of cheer.
Mix & A-Mingle at Bartaco
National Sangria Day is December 20 — the perfect reason to pop by the coastal-inspired WestBend restaurant's bar to sip their version of a winter sangria. Made in house with Argentinian red wine, ginger, agave nectar, and soothing spices like cinnamon, star anise, and clove, the rich concoction is one of several seasonal specials on the cocktail menu right now. While cooler weather might not bode well for sitting on Bartaco’s riverfront patio, the restaurant’s interior beach vacation vibe will whisk patrons away from the holiday chaos.
The Crazy Beautiful at Doc B’s Fresh Kitchen
For a refreshing break from heavier holiday cocktails and hot toddies, this spiced sparkler comes topped with a splash of bubbly prosecco. The pretty martini also blends vodka, fragrant elderflower liqueur, and spiced pear liqueur, and is garnished with dried hibiscus flowers. Enjoy it at the lively Doc B’s bar, which has fast become one of the hottest destinations at the Shops at Clearfork (and in Fort Worth) since its late summer opening.
The Mistletoe at Mi Dia From Scratch
A kiss is not required when ordering this spirited sipper, which is the Grapevine tequila bar and restaurant’s margarita of the month for December. Served in a martini glass and garnished with frozen cranberries, a rosemary sprig and powdered sugar, the cocktail is shaken with azul tequila, lemon juice, strawberry-infused agave syrup, and an egg white for some froth. Enjoy it at the Mexican restaurant’s flashy bar, where a 360-degree tequila tower features more than 100 bottles.
Clausmopolitan at Reata
The ruby red martini earned a spot on the favorite Sundance Square spot's seasonal drink menu, thanks to a staff cocktail contest a few years ago. Facebook followers helped name it, and now the sweet libation is one of Reata’s most popular. Shaken with whipped cream flavored vodka, Grand Marnier, and cranberry juice, the easy-drinker is finished with a sugar rim. While Reata’s popular rooftop patio availability may be hit or miss due to weather, the ground floor wood bar is a cozy spot for drinks before or after dinner. Enjoy the music of a cheery strolling guitarist throughout the holiday season, and snap some Instagram-worthy photos by the lounge Christmas tree.
Snowball Old Fashioned at Proper
The snowball-shaped ice cube might be the cutest component of this craft cocktail, or it could be the classic image of Old Saint Nick on the lowball glass. The drink is part of the Proper’s Miracle in Cowtown pop-up bar lineup, a concept that began in New York City five years ago and has made its way to Fort Worth for a second year. Butterscotch rye whiskey, spiced demerara sugar syrup, bitters, and orange zest round out the potent libation. Visit for instant holiday cheer as the tiny West Magnolia Avenue has been transformed into a wonderland of Christmas whimsy with lights, ornaments, and vintage décor.