Where to Pre-Game Before a Stars or Mavs Game
Here are some of the best restaurants within walking distance of the AAC.
Victory Park is one of the hottest areas in the city. It's hard to deny the energy as you walk through Victory Plaza to the American Airlines Center (AAC) with a hot ticket in your hand.
Updated May 2024
Start the night off right and hit the town for happy hour with your crew before the big game! With all the great choices near AAC, we've dwindled your options down to a few walkable and tasty local watering holes. Take a look at our favorite pre-game dives and bars rooting the Mavs or Stars to victory!
HERO
2-minute walk to AAC
HERO is the closest hangout to the AAC and it's great before and after game day. You'll be blown away by the drink menu (including large format drinks), the massive space, indoor and outdoor seating and arcade games – and you'll be even more impressed with the dining menu. Catch happy hour before the game on weekdays 3-6 p.m.
Mesero
5-minute walk to AAC
Mesero has everything you love about Tex-Mex and beyond in Dallas. Try the Frozé to get the party started – made with frozen rosé, vodka and Licor 43, a delicious Spanish liqueur. The community plates and shared appetizer menu boasts two types of nachos, THREE types of queso, ceviche, flautas and much more. Mesero offers happy hour Monday – Friday 3-5 p.m.
Billy Can Can
5-minute walk to AAC
Enjoy an upscale meal at Billy Can Can, a 19th-century saloon-style restaurant. Don't miss their extensive drink menu, grab a cold beer straight from the parlor, or sip on a saloon signature cocktail or wine. From bourbon to cognac and brandy, they will have the perfect thing to lift your spirits. Dinner options include roasted snapper, scallops and grits, buffalo tenderloin and more. Billy Can Can offers happy hour Monday – Friday 5-7p.m.
Happiest Hour
5-minute walk to AAC
The name doesn't lie. It really is difficult to be in Happiest Hour without a smile. There are great views and lots of space to sit with your friends and contemplate the night. Their local drafts list and drink menu will get you in the spirit, and the "happytizer" menu has all your bar favorites like chicken wings, pulled pork sliders and loaded cheddar fries. Happiest Hour offers happy hour Monday – Friday 5-7 p.m.
Te Deseo
5-minute walk to AAC
Looking for a stunning rooftop overlooking the city with a vast collection of tequila, mezcal and cigars? Inspired by bold Latin American flavors, Te Deseo's energy makes it a great place to start or end a game night. You can also enjoy a bottle service experience in the upstairs Catalina Bar & Lounge or on the stunning Terrazza featuring city views. Te Deseo offers happy hour Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5-7 p.m. available only at the bars.
The Henry
8-minute walk to AAC
The Henry is a beautiful two-story restaurant serving new American dishes in a casual setting. Take advantage of their happy hour deals like the $6 wines, $4 draught beers and plenty of appetizers to enjoy on the cheap – the fresh guacamole and parmesan truffle fries are always a good choice. Sip one of their beautiful cocktails, all while enjoying a picturesque view of the Dallas skyline. The Henry offers happy hour Monday – Friday 4-6 p.m.
Saint Ann Restaurant & Bar
9-minute walk to AAC
Saint Ann is home to Dallas' largest garden patio! With a fresh take on happy hour, crisp cocktails, impressive wines, and modern New American fare made, Saint Ann's is great for groups to sip, dine, and stay awhile. Saint Ann Restaurant and Bar offers happy hour Wednesday – Friday 4-6 p.m.
Harwood Arms
10-minute walk to AAC
The perfect pre-game spot to drink with the luck of the Irish! With pints of Guinness, the finest whiskeys, and the tastiest fish and chips, Harwood Arms is the District pub where it feels like you are stepping into another world, and hopefully another win! Harwood Arms offers happy hour Monday – Thursday 4-7 p.m.
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