Catbird

Head past the art-splashed lobby of the Thompson Hotel and up to floor 9C, and you’ll find Catbird—a bar that’s not just a vibe, it’s a full-blown aesthetic. Housed in a former bank, you enter through a tunnel of flowers that feels like you accidentally wandered into an out-of-place wedding, only to emerge in an eclectic art deco fantasyland that’s equal parts swanky lounge and surrealist gallery. The room itself is a maximalist fever dream of bold patterns, geometric prints, inviting fireplaces, and curious design moments (including a giant bedazzled Russian doll) that’ll keep your eyes from fixating on any one thing for too long. It’s the kind of place where you’re just as likely to be mingling with Dallas A-listers as you are with one-night-only business travelers and that’s part of the intrigue. Every corner is distinct, from the DJ-fueled entry to a garage-chic floral room and a wraparound rooftop that feels like you unlocked a secret level of the city. The drink menu leans just as playful: cocktails made with pressed mineral water that’s basically couture Topo Chico, egg creams, and flavored cold foams. The Haiku—a minty, green tea–infused gin sipper—tastes like the cleanest mojito you’ve ever met. And if the night goes too right? There’s always the option to end it with a room key.