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AmericanStockyards
Billy Bob's Texas in Fort Worth holds the Guinness record as the world's largest honky-tonk, with 40 bar stations and live bull riding on weekends.
OrderFrozen margarita at the bar; a Shiner Bock by the indoor rodeo arena.
TipArrive before the headlining act sells out on Friday and Saturday nights. The indoor rodeo runs Fri-Sat around 21:00.
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BreweryDowntown
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium in Fort Worth downtown pours over 200 beers on draught and in bottle beneath its famous suspended saucer collection.
OrderThe rotating Texas craft tap; the UFO Platter sampler of five beers.
TipHappy hour runs Tuesday to Friday 15:00 to 18:00. The back patio catches afternoon shade nicely.
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Cocktail barMagnolia Avenue
The Usual is a cocktail bar on Fort Worth Magnolia Avenue with a rotating menu of well-made classics and signature drinks in a relaxed neighbourhood setting.
OrderThe house negroni; the seasonal sour with local citrus.
TipThe small bar fills quickly on Thursday nights. Weekday visits from 16:00 to 19:00 are the quietest window for conversation.
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Cocktail barMagnolia Avenue
Proper on Fort Worth Magnolia Avenue has poured expertly crafted classic and signature cocktails since 2014 in a casual, welcoming neighbourhood lounge.
OrderThe Paper Plane; whichever seasonal signature is on the chalkboard.
TipHappy hour runs Sunday, Monday, Wednesday to Friday from 16:00 to 19:00. Closed Tuesdays.
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BrewerySouth Main
The Bearded Lady in Fort Worth South Main is a dog-friendly gastropub with a large covered patio, rotating Texas craft taps, and a solid pub food menu.
OrderOne of the rotating local Texas taps; the smash burger with fries.
TipThe large patio is a great afternoon spot. Closed Mondays year-round.
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Cocktail barDowntown
Wicked Butcher at Fort Worth Sinclair Hotel pairs a polished lobby bar with an upscale American dining room, drawing professionals for cocktails and steaks.
OrderThe smoked old fashioned; the craft gin and tonic with house bitters.
TipThe bar lobby is open from early morning for coffee service. Evening cocktail hour tends to draw a post-work crowd from nearby offices.