Going Underground: Fort Worth’s Basement Bars

The Winchester Tavern

Basement bars were a necessity during Prohibition for obvious reasons while many suburban homes (not so much in Texas) in the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s finished out their basements with wet and dry bars. Fort Worth boasts a small but mighty cadre of these below-ground watering holes.

Thompson’s Bookstore is a true speakeasy with literary themes throughout. The ground-level bookshelf gives way to a stairway leading to a hidden gem below. Grab a stool in one of several simi-partitioned spaces and order a pour of whiskey or an artfully crafted mixed drink. Scat Jazz Lounge’s brightly lit and Instagram-famous alley beckons wandering tourists and jazz lovers to a subterranean treat. Lavish and posh environs invite imbibing on classic cocktails (my favorite is the gin martini) while taking in a nightly selection of locally and regionally renowned jazz ensembles.

Nearby CURFEW is a spacious underground bar and dance club featuring a creative menu of cocktails like the Saturn (gin, lemon juice, lavender, honey) and Espresso Yourself (vodka, bitters, house-made cinnamon syrup). Like most basement bars, Winchester Tavern (located just north of Hyde Park), can be easy to miss. Dutifully styled after an English neighborhood pub, the tavern is the perfect spot to order up a pint, play billiards, or catch the game in this low-key pub.

If rowdy isn’t your thing, Ridglea Hills is home to a warm and classy space known for attracting discerning cocktail lovers from across the region. The minimalist decor is as thoughtful as the service. The Basement Lounge, which features monthly art shows, is a featured destination on our Panther City Social cocktail guide. In the Stockyards, Basement Bar is a cool little beer joint frequented by locals and tourists alike.