When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Lakewood Landing
Why Lakewood Landing is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lakewood Landing, located at 5818 Live Oak St in Dallas, Texas, stands out as a popular and iconic dive bar perfect for meeting up with friends. Renowned for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, the venue offers an authentic dive bar experience that combines classic charm with a lively social scene. Its prime location and friendly vibe make it a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike looking for good drinks, casual dining, and a fun night out. The bar serves a broad menu with lunch and dinner options and offers a selection of drinks to suit many tastes, all at reasonable prices. Open from the afternoon until late into the night—specifically from 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM daily—Lakewood Landing ensures that guests have ample time to enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable gathering. It is an excellent setting to engage with friends or meet new people in a laid-back environment that celebrates Dallas's local bar culture.
Here's what people think of Lakewood Landing
As of recent, Lakewood Landing holds a 4.5-star rating based on 650 reviews.
Reviews of Lakewood Landing reflect a solid appreciation for its distinctive dive bar ambiance. Many customers praised it as a great "landing" spot for dinner and drinks, highlighting the good quality of drinks and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that invites socializing and unwinding with friends. Positive reviews often mention the bar's unique vibe as a cozy dive bar with an upscale touch, making it both approachable and slightly special compared to typical dive bars. Patrons appreciated the classic and iconic feel of the place, noting it as a staple of Dallas nightlife with a rich, local character. However, some negative reviews touched on aspects such as crowd size or noise levels, which can occasionally be typical for popular bars and might affect the experience for those seeking a quieter setting. Despite this, the overall sentiment remains positive, and the bar consistently earns high marks for its atmosphere and drink quality. The mix of positive experiences and minor critiques culminates in a solid reputation that encourages visitors to consider Lakewood Landing as a prime destination for casual nights out in Dallas.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Cody
A bar that panders to the regulars over service. Makes sense, play to your consistent money. If you like dropping in on someone else’s game of Sims, hit this place up.
Mark Rayshell
Been there countless times; me, my wife and 14 yo granddaughter. Burger, fries and onion rings, great. We swing in tonight about 630 and we're turned away because of the granddaughter. The guy says "this is a bar," yeah, like the tables we have sat at many times, the out door seating. Sure. What's going on in there now? Promoting drugs? Weed? Sex?? You advertise your great burgers. They're good but all of the sudden your a bar and cant have a teenager in there with her guardians. What kind of a place is this now???? What are you promoting in there just a few feet from people's residences????
Amanda Smith
Super chill little bar with a great little menu. Outdoor seating available. Parking is a bit condensed but is workable. We had the landing burger with ghost pepper cheese! A Stella brew and a Budweiser brew was we had for choices but other selections are available!
Z Watkins
Lakewood Landing is a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️dive bar. The owner, Bill, is great, as are all the bartenders, chefs, cooks, and fellow customers like me. Nothing but good things to write and say about the place. I've been going since my mid-20s. I recommend ✅The Landing Burger, ✅Wings, and ✅Corn Dogs after 11:00 P.M. Can't go wrong with anything, honestly.
Erica Arevalo
Burgers 💯💯💯 corn dogs soooo good! Nice little bar n grill
How to reach Lakewood Landing
None
Website: None
Why Lakewood Landing may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lakewood Landing with your friends?
Lakewood Landing stands out as an exceptional place to gather with friends because it perfectly balances the charm of a vintage dive bar with the warmth of a welcoming neighborhood hangout. When seeking a spot for a meaningful get-together, you want a place where everyone feels comfortable and relaxed, and Lakewood Landing delivers just that. Its mix of dim, cozy lighting and nostalgic decor creates an intimate atmosphere where conversations flow naturally and good times unfold effortlessly. The staff’s genuine friendliness adds to the inviting vibe, making everyone—from longtime locals to first-time visitors—feel like part of the family. Beyond ambiance, Lakewood Landing boasts a reputation for serving excellent food and drinks at reasonable prices, ensuring that your group can enjoy quality dining without worrying about the bill. Whether your meetup involves lively storytelling, casual drinks, or simply enjoying each other's company, this classic East Dallas bar offers an ideal backdrop for making memories together. Its rich history and authentic character make it more than just a bar—it’s a destination that feels comfortable, special, and just right for rallying your friends.
What kinds of activities can groups enjoy at Lakewood Landing?
Lakewood Landing offers a variety of activities that cater to groups looking for both entertainment and relaxation. One of the biggest draws is the pool table tucked away in a cozy room where friends can compete casually or team up for fun matches, making it a perfect icebreaker or ongoing group pastime. The presence of a long bar with plenty of seating alongside intimate booths allows groups to either mix and mingle or settle into quieter conversations. For those who enjoy watching sports or other events together, the bar features large TVs, so catch the game without losing the social buzz. Outdoor seating on the wooden patio gives groups the option to enjoy a breath of fresh air while still soaking in the energetic ambiance of the bar. For groups focused on food, the kitchen delivers a tasty menu featuring award-winning burgers and hearty sides that are perfect for sharing or individual enjoyment. From snacking on jalapeño corn dogs late at night to savoring crispy fries and bacon cheeseburgers, the menu supports a casual, communal dining experience. This combination of games, TV viewing, indoor and outdoor seating, and great food makes Lakewood Landing an ideal place where friends can create diverse memories together.
Why is Lakewood Landing perfect for a group meetup?
When organizing a group meetup, choosing a venue that caters to varied tastes and needs is crucial, and Lakewood Landing excels in this regard. The spacious layout is designed to accommodate groups of different sizes without feeling cramped. There are plenty of tables and booths that encourage both group conversations and smaller clusters. The separate pool room provides an engaging activity to bond over, while the bar area allows for more fluid socializing. Moreover, the bar’s reputation for fast, attentive service ensures that groups do not face long waits, making the experience smooth and enjoyable even during busy evenings. The affordability of drinks and food lets everyone participate without budget concerns, a key consideration when meeting with friends or family. Also important is the genuine, friendly atmosphere where bartenders and staff remember regulars and welcome newcomers with equal warmth—this fosters a sense of belonging that can transform a simple night out into a memorable occasion. Lakewood Landing’s blend of old-school dive bar charm with modern hospitality creates a unique environment that naturally encourages groups to relax, connect, and have fun.
What makes the food and drink offerings at Lakewood Landing special?
Lakewood Landing is well-known not just for its inviting social vibe but also for serving high-quality food and drinks that enhance group meetups. The kitchen’s offerings shine particularly when it comes to their famed burgers, which are consistently praised as award-winning. These burgers come generously topped with smoky bacon and cheese, served alongside hot and crispy fries that are perfect for sharing among friends. The menu, though limited, thoughtfully includes daily specials like chili dogs and fish and chips, keeping things interesting without overwhelming diners. For those who prefer something lighter or snack-sized, jalapeño poppers, corn dogs (offered late night), and other bar staples provide satisfying options. Drink-wise, Lakewood Landing serves a solid selection of beers with some favorites priced affordably, encouraging everyone to raise a toast. Their cocktails are made with care and poured generously, reflecting the skill of the bartenders who strive to please and impress. This focus on quality food and drinks at fair prices helps make Lakewood Landing a reliable choice for groups wanting to enjoy a full evening of eating, drinking, and socializing.
How does Lakewood Landing’s atmosphere contribute to a great social experience?
The atmosphere at Lakewood Landing is a defining characteristic that makes it stand out as a top choice for gatherings. Described affectionately as “an upscale dive,” the bar embraces its status as a slightly rough-around-the-edges, authentic place filled with character. Decorated with vintage signs, photos of patrons past and present, and quirky memorabilia like an old-fashioned cigarette vending machine, it creates an environment that feels both nostalgic and welcoming. The lighting is low, with a dark, retro 70s feel that makes the space cozy and intimate, ideal for deep conversations or laughter-filled group chats. Unlike many modern bars, Lakewood Landing’s vibe is unpretentious and genuine—it’s a place where everyone can be themselves without pretense. The staff’s warm demeanor and efficient service further amplify this feeling, making the bar a comfortable escape from the busy world outside. Whether your group wants to reminisce, celebrate, or simply unwind, the relaxed yet lively spirit of Lakewood Landing nurtures connection and enjoyment in a way few other places do.
What practical amenities and conveniences make organizing a meetup at Lakewood Landing easier?
Lakewood Landing is not only charming and fun but also practical for hosting group get-togethers, thanks to its thoughtful amenities. The bar offers free and plentiful parking, a significant convenience for groups who prefer to drive separately or arrive together. Outdoor seating on the wooden patio provides fresh air and a break from indoor crowds when desired. The venue accepts credit cards, simplifying payment logistics for groups who might otherwise struggle with cash-only establishments. Additionally, the bar supports reservations and delivers fast service, both of which streamline planning and ensure your group can get comfortable quickly without undue delays. The presence of a spacious bar area, booths, and standing tables makes it easier to accommodate groups of various sizes and social needs. Whether you want a reserved table for a special occasion or a casual drop-in visit, Lakewood Landing’s blend of practicality and personality takes the stress out of organizing a social outing.
How has Lakewood Landing maintained its reputation and appeal over the years?
Lakewood Landing’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to preserve the best of what makes a dive bar appealing while continuously delivering quality experiences. With a history spanning over 50 years, it has become a landmark in East Dallas—a place where generations of patrons return for the familiar mix of comfort, fun, and community. The bar’s commitment to good food, affordable drinks, and attentive service has remained steady, ensuring that each visit feels both reliably satisfying and refreshingly genuine. The staff, often long-term and deeply invested in the venue’s success, create a familial environment where everyone feels seen and valued. The bar’s atmosphere, rich with photographs and memories, evokes a sense of nostalgia while remaining vibrant and dynamic. By respecting its roots yet adapting subtly to modern expectations, Lakewood Landing stays relevant and beloved, preserving its status as a premier gathering spot for friends and families alike.
In essence, Lakewood Landing combines historic charm, diverse activities, excellent food and drink, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for anyone planning a meetup with friends or family. Its rich character and practical advantages ensure that every visit turns into a memorable celebration of friendship and community.