Staycation-Worthy Lobby Bars
Courtesy Toro Toro
Want to get away but not too far? You can enjoy a new perspective on Panther City by trying these local hotels that boast staycation-worthy lobby bars.
Bar Dryce
Chef Scotty Scott (@a.b.e.fromage) kept the blackened chicken coming as the bar served Jubilee Spirits cocktails that quickly sold out. The Juneteenth party’s General Orders No. 3 vodka distilled from sweet potatoes was a full-bodied, caramel-kissed delight.
Hotel Dryce’s repurposed industrial building near Dickies Arena holds 21 boutique rooms featuring photos by Guillermo D. Tapia and other local artists. We recommend treating yourself to the lively, spicy, sweet, and tangy Texas Sun (jalapeño syrup, pineapple juice, lime, and a tajín rim).
Enjoy a $6 Next Episode or $5 Texas Sun with our Panther City Pass.
Sheraton Hotel
Downtown’s Sheraton recently underwent a $50 million renovation that updated rooms, revamped event spaces, and added West + Stone (a signature restaurant and bar). The centerpiece rectangular bar features plush high-back stools, a sleek marble countertop, inviting lounge seating — and the allure of street-side patio access.
One featured cocktail on a recent visit, When the Dust Settles, had the smoky warmth of scotch balanced by the smooth, herbal sweetness of vermouth. The tobacco bitters lent an earthy, woody finish to a sophisticated and memorable experience.
Toro Toro
The centerpiece of the Worthington Renaissance Hotel’s $8 million renovation is the main lobby restaurant and bar: Toro Toro. The hotel lobby is elegant and grand with striking golden, red, and graphite tones. The Tequila Old Fashioned (Herradura Crystalline, orange bitters, Angostura bitters, maraschino cherry) elevates the classic libation with intricate, aromatic notes and subtle cherry spices.
Otto Worth Worth
CargoHomes’ eight bungalows (featuring pool plunges, cabanas, a Bocce Ball court, a vegetable garden, and complimentary cocktail hours) offer easy access to kayaking, horseback riding, and e-biking adventures. Each 160-square-foot bungalow features a queen-sized bed, walk-in shower, bath amenities, coffee machines, and a breezy walk to Gemelle’s bar for another Aperol Spritz.
Wicked Butcher
Wicked Butcher's ground-floor bar seamlessly merges Western and contemporary decor in a downtown Art Deco-era building. Under warm Edison bulb lighting, the space feels intimate and inviting. Classic cocktails and smooth espresso martinis should be your opening order here.
The Crescent Fort Worth
The Crescent’s Circle Bar was abuzz on a recent visit. The restaurant headed by Chef Preston Paine has a centerpiece bar offering a range of vinos and craft beers. Circle Bar makes a mean martini. The Crescent Martini, crafted with Belvedere vodka, dry vermouth, and bitters, came garnished with a twist of lemon. The generous pour left me tipsily savoring the refreshing, citrusy finish.
Bowie House
Bowie House (pronounced “Boo-wee”) is a great spot to throw back a few rye whiskey Manhattans if you appreciate the company of rotating contemporary art and innovative bartenders like Tia Downey, who honed her skills at Clay Pigeon. My Manhattan delivered a robust spiciness, strong whiskey backbone, and a harmonious blend of sweet and bitter.
The Ramblin’ Mr. Cosby (Wild Acre gin, Curacao, Galliano L’Aperitivo liqueur) was an intoxicating medley of herbal complexity and aromatic depth.
Kimpton Harper Hotel
The Kimpton Harper boasts an exceptional Italian restaurant, il Modo, and a stunning penthouse lounge with luxe seating and stunning views of downtown Fort Worth. My Sazerac was bold and balanced, with spicy rye whiskey, a touch of sweetness from sugar, aromatic bitters, and a hint of anise.