When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Opening Bell Coffee
Why Opening Bell Coffee is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Opening Bell Coffee is a vibrant and beloved coffee bar and live music venue located in the basement of the historic South Side on Lamar Lofts in Dallas’ Cedars District. This unique and inviting space combines expertly crafted coffee, a thoughtfully curated selection of wines and beers, and a stage that hosts live acoustic music most nights, creating a dynamic social hub perfect for meeting up with friends. The venue’s atmosphere is cozy yet lively, enhanced by comfortable seating additions like brand-new couches and distinctive decor including limited edition music posters that celebrate iconic bands. Owned by Julie Blucker, who is passionate about live music and community, Opening Bell Coffee embraces a neighborhood feel where patrons can enjoy quality beverages alongside intimate musical performances. Whether you seek a morning coffee, a casual lunch featuring their acclaimed chicken salad and soups, or an evening of live entertainment paired with a glass of fine wine or craft beer, the venue supports diverse social occasions. Free wifi, street parking, and a welcoming ambiance add to its appeal, making it an excellent place to relax, converse, or discover new local music talents. The venue also supports local vendors and original musicians, enhancing its role as a cultural cornerstone in Dallas.
Here's what people think of Opening Bell Coffee
As of recent, Opening Bell Coffee holds a 4.6-star rating based on 714 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Opening Bell Coffee for its eclectic live music programming and excellent coffee bar experience, which together create a warm and engaging environment. Positive reviews highlight the quality and variety of drinks beyond coffee, including craft beers and fine wines, the welcoming atmosphere, and the venue’s commitment to showcasing original music. Many applaud the friendly staff and the intimate setting that makes each visit feel special. Reviewers also note the venue’s convenient location with free parking and the enhancement of comfortable seating, which adds to the overall pleasant experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues with noise levels during live shows, limited space during peak hours, and the challenges inherent in operating in a basement setting, such as accessibility concerns. A few guests have indicated that menu variety could be expanded further or that service may sometimes be slow during busy evenings. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus remains highly favorable, reflecting the venue’s strong community roots and quality offerings. Opening Bell Coffee shines as a friendly, locally-focused gathering spot that balances great coffee, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere, earning it consistently positive feedback and a solid 4.6-star rating from over 700 reviews.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rachel Elizabeth McDaniel Hughes oldsoullikemine
I literally can't say enough about how amazing this place was! And not just the place, but the all-around atmosphere and most importantly the people... the other patrons were all so talented, kind, and welcoming, and the staff were just the best!!! Especially Sol, what a bright and shining light! "Thanks for the amazing Spiced Chai Latte, I have a new favorite drink now." I am in Dallas for a few days promoting my book and was looking for spots that held open mic poetry events and when I called to check what day the opening bell held theirs, it just so happened to be that afternoon and I was able to attend. I knew right away that I was right where I was supposed to be the moment I walked in! So very glad I found this place!
Leslie Evanoff
Best coffee shop in Dallas! Super hip and cozy environment. The open mic night attracts tons of amazingly talented local musicians! Great spot to hang out on your laptop or to chill with friends. When you finish loading up on caffine, check out the wine and beer list! The food and snack selection is also worth trying! Not many coffee shops in town stay open as late.
Da. Rich (DakTHARip)
First, this place gives all the feels of an creative artists paradise, so as soon as I walked in I was immediately inspired to relax and enjoy the ambiance. From the Blue Eyed Soul Burn playing in the background as theme music, to the array of eye medicine in every direction. Not to mention the coffee is made with love and care, I could taste it with every sip. This is a perfect place to come unwind, get a litte work done, or just invest some you time quietly and people watch me. Thank you for the great service Julie!
Hannah (莫恩妍)
Note: Reviewing as a coffee shop, not live music venue. If coming for coffee shop, note that during live music events there is sometimes a charge (not sure if it’s every time, but when I was there it was $15 to stay once the live music started, I wasn’t there for the show, so I had to leave). I love the ambience and decor style here and the drink menu has a lot of options. Comfortable seating options for relaxing, reading, studying, hanging out. I like that they stay open late, although I was bummed when I had to either pay a cover charge or leave once the live music started (I had arrived before that and ordered my drink without being told that I’d have to pay or leave shortly, so I was already seated with my drink and book and all, and then when the music started someone came and said I either needed to pay for the music or leave). One reason I like the location is that it’s easy walking distance from the DART station (Cedars station, red & blue lines).
Gabriel Burns
Wow. This place is spectacular. Food is spectacular, drinks are phenomenal, staff is so gotdang rad! 🥰 Oh man, Samson hooked me up, cool people that guy. Legit, high key recommend Opening Bell! The atmosphere btw? Cozy, cool, and calm. 💜💜💜
How to reach Opening Bell Coffee
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Why Opening Bell Coffee may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Opening Bell Coffee with your friends?
Opening Bell Coffee stands out as a superb choice for gathering with friends because it strikes the perfect balance between a cozy coffeehouse vibe and a lively social hub. With a strong rating of 4.6 from over 700 reviews, its track record of satisfying guests speaks volumes. The atmosphere is relaxed yet energizing, making it ideal for conversations—from catching up on life to brainstorming creative ideas. Situated in a unique underground space beneath the South Side on Lamar Lofts in Dallas, its setting feels exclusive without being pretentious. This location not only offers a trendy ambiance with modern art and decor but also benefits from the convenience of free parking in a secure lot, removing a common hassle for group outings. Whether your group is looking for a morning coffee session, an afternoon break, or an evening spot for live music, Opening Bell Coffee caters seamlessly to each need, fostering connection in a vibrant community setting. It’s a welcoming spot where friends can gather comfortably while enjoying quality coffee, good food, and engaging entertainment, making every meetup memorable.
What activities can you enjoy at Opening Bell Coffee that make it ideal for a group meetup?
Opening Bell Coffee offers a variety of activities that support different group dynamics and tastes, ensuring that everyone in your party finds something enjoyable. Their coffee bar serves expertly crafted coffee blends alongside breakfast tacos, sandwiches, and other light fare, perfect for casual dining during your gathering. The menu also includes curated wine and beer selections, so those wanting a more festive or relaxed adult beverage can find satisfying options. Beyond food and drink, Opening Bell is celebrated for its live acoustic music scene, hosting performances most nights of the week. This feature transforms the space into a vibrant venue where you and your friends can enjoy quality music together, adding an experiential layer to your meetup. Additionally, they offer free WiFi, making it easy to work on collaborative projects, share photos, or simply browse as a group. The environment is spacious and well-designed, encouraging interaction and comfort for small to medium-sized groups, whether for conversation, study, or entertainment.
Why is the location of Opening Bell Coffee perfect for group meetups?
Opening Bell Coffee’s location amplifies its appeal as a meetup spot with friends and family. It’s tucked away in the basement of the historic South Side on Lamar Lofts building in Dallas, giving it a unique underground vibe that differentiates it from typical street-level cafes. This unobtrusive setting contributes to a sense of community privacy—perfect for groups wanting to spend quality time together without the distractions of a bustling street or mall. Furthermore, the Cedars District, where it’s located, is known for its cultural richness and bustling arts scene, placing Opening Bell Coffee close to several other attractions like the South Side Ballroom and nearby live music venues. This proximity allows groups to extend their outing beyond coffee, possibly moving to concerts, galleries, or other entertainment nearby. Importantly, the availability of free, secure parking nearby means your group won’t need to worry about parking hassles, which can often disrupt plans. Accessibility, ambiance, and neighborhood convenience combine here to create an excellent destination for group gatherings.
How does Opening Bell Coffee’s live music enhance group experiences?
Live acoustic music is a signature aspect of Opening Bell Coffee, and it significantly enhances the group meetup experience. Most nights, local musicians perform in a cozy venue setting, allowing guests to enjoy quality entertainment without leaving their coffee house. This live music adds a cultural and communal energy that turns an ordinary coffee stop into a memorable social occasion. For groups, live performances provide a natural conversation starter and shared experience that can deepen bonds. The music is typically acoustic and intimate, which means it complements conversations rather than overwhelms them—perfect for gatherings that want ambiance with the option of lively interaction. This ongoing commitment to supporting local artists also fosters a strong sense of community, attracting a crowd that appreciates culture, creativity, and connection. Whether your group is celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, the live music scene at Opening Bell Coffee enriches the occasion and offers a unique soundtrack to your memories.
What makes the food and drink offerings suitable for group meetups at Opening Bell Coffee?
The food and drink offerings at Opening Bell Coffee are well-tailored to support group gatherings by being both delicious and versatile. Breakfast tacos and sandwiches provide satisfying, shareable comfort food that suits diverse tastes and dietary preferences, making it easy for everyone in your group to find something they enjoy. The menu is crafted to complement the coffee bar’s high-quality blends but also includes selections of wine and beer for those who prefer to unwind with something alcoholic, expanding the appeal beyond just caffeine lovers. The affordable pricing means groups can indulge without breaking the bank, supporting longer visits without stress. The kitchen’s attention to freshness and quality, combined with quick service, ensures that your meetup flows smoothly without lengthy waits—important when coordinating around multiple schedules. This mix of casual dining options, drinks variety, and good value contributes to a satisfying experience that keeps groups coming back for both the food and the atmosphere.
How does the overall atmosphere at Opening Bell Coffee facilitate connection for groups?
The atmosphere at Opening Bell Coffee is thoughtfully designed to foster connection and comfort, making it a perfect gathering space for friends or family. Its modern, art-filled interior creates a visually stimulating environment that inspires relaxed conversations and creative thinking. Spacious seating arrangements allow groups to sit together comfortably without feeling cramped, which can often be a problem in smaller coffee shops. The underground location offers a quieter, more intimate setting insulated from street noise, encouraging deeper conversations and a sense of retreat from the city hustle. Staff friendliness and attentiveness add to the welcoming vibe, making every visitor feel valued and at ease. With reliable free WiFi, guests can mix business or casual online activities with face-to-face interaction seamlessly. The combination of design, sound, lighting, and service creates an inclusive and vibrant atmosphere that nurtures meaningful social interaction and lasting memories for groups.
In sum, Opening Bell Coffee is more than just a place to grab coffee—it’s a multifaceted venue optimized for group meetups. From its engaging live music and quality food offerings to its prime location and inviting ambiance, the coffeehouse offers a memorable setting where friends and family can rally to connect, celebrate, or unwind together. Its strong community ties and commitment to local culture make it a standout choice for hosting any social gathering. If you're looking for a spot with character, comfort, and exceptional service, Opening Bell Coffee in Dallas provides an experience that goes beyond the typical cafe—making your meetup one to remember.