Top Pre‑Game Spots Near the AAC for Dallas Stars & Mavs Fans
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. 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 narrowed your options down to 12 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 is perfect for before and after game day. The drink menu – featuring large‑format cocktails – pairs well with a spacious interior that offers indoor and outdoor seating, arcade games, and an impressive dining selection. Enjoy happy hour on weekdays from 3‑6 p.m.
Dibs on Victory
3‑minute walk to AAC
Just a block from the AAC, Dibs is a colorful sports bar with a patio that serves comfort food and cocktails. Try shareable appetizers such as nachos, fried pretzels, or the 24K Gold Trophy Wings. Happy hour runs Monday‑Friday from 4‑7 p.m., and a late‑night menu begins at 10 p.m.
Mesero
5‑minute walk to AAC
Mesero delivers authentic Tex‑Mex and more. Kick off the night with a Frozé – a frozen rosé, vodka, and Licor 43 – then explore community plates and shared appetizers, including two types of nachos, three kinds of queso, ceviche, flautas, and more. Happy hour is Monday‑Friday from 3‑5 p.m.
Burgundy Swine Wine Bar
4‑minute walk to AAC
This wine bar offers a memorable experience with selections from emerging regions such as Portugal, Australia, South America, Mexico, and Texas. Create custom cheese and meat boards in a modern, unique space. Happy hour features half‑off glasses Monday‑Friday from 3‑6 p.m.
Imoto
4‑minute walk to AAC
Start your evening with a lavish dining experience at Imoto. Browse an extensive wine, cocktail, and sake list before sampling sushi – classic sashimi or hand‑made signature rolls – from the traditional sushi bar. Chef Kent Rathbun brings East‑Asian flavors to Dallas with a unique twist. Happy hour runs Monday‑Friday from 5‑6:30 p.m.
Billy Can Can
5‑minute walk to AAC
Enjoy an upscale meal at Billy Can Can, a 19th‑century saloon‑style restaurant. The extensive drink menu offers everything from cold beer straight from the parlor to signature cocktails, bourbon, cognac, and brandy. Dinner highlights include roasted snapper, scallops and grits, and buffalo tenderloin. Happy hour is Monday‑Friday from 5‑7 p.m.
Happiest Hour
5‑minute walk to AAC
True to its name, Happiest Hour delivers a bright atmosphere, ample seating, and views for a relaxed pre‑game vibe. Their local draft list and cocktail menu set the mood, while the “happytizer” menu features favorites like chicken wings, pulled pork sliders, and loaded cheddar fries. Happy hour is Monday‑Friday from 5‑7 p.m.
Te Deseo
5‑minute walk to AAC
Te Deseo offers a stunning rooftop with sweeping city views, an extensive collection of tequila, mezcal, and cigars, and Latin‑inspired flavors. The upstairs Catalina Bar & Lounge and the Terrazza provide bottle‑service options for an elevated experience. Happy hour is Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 5‑7 p.m. (bars only).
Royal 38
8‑minute walk to AAC
Royal 38 boasts 20+ signature cocktails and classic favorites, paired with an extensive shared‑plates menu, salads, and entrees. If weather permits, the casual patio is ideal for pre‑game conversations over cocktails. Happy hour runs Wednesday‑Friday and Sunday from 4‑6 p.m.
The Henry
8‑minute walk to AAC
The Henry is a two‑story New American restaurant that offers a relaxed atmosphere and a view of the Dallas skyline. Take advantage of happy hour deals – $6 wines, $4 draft beers, and tasty appetizers like fresh guacamole and parmesan‑truffle fries – all while enjoying a crafted cocktail.
Saint Ann Restaurant & Bar
9‑minute walk to AAC
Home to Dallas’ largest garden patio, Saint Ann provides a fresh take on happy hour with crisp cocktails, impressive wines, and modern New American fare. It’s perfect for groups that want to sip, dine, and stay awhile. Happy hour is Wednesday‑Friday from 4‑6 p.m.
Harwood Arms
10‑minute walk to AAC
The Harwood Arms is a District pub that feels like stepping into another world. Enjoy Guinness pints, premium whiskeys, and the best fish and chips in town. It’s an ideal pre‑game spot for Irish‑style camaraderie. Happy hour is Monday‑Thursday from 4‑7 p.m.
