Out of the glitz and glamour that is the Dallas bar scene is a classy, stoic gem called the Library Bar. Located in the Melrose Hotel, trendy seems to have passed this bar by. And unlike most hotel bars, one is more likely to meet a local than a flange salesman from Omaha.

Home of the big martini glass and overstuffed chairs, the Library Bar is the quintessential date place. The room is big and dark and comfortable but the bar itself is very small – maybe six stools – so it is a place better to be with someone. And the romantic elements like the decor and the piano lend itself to being accompanied by a member of the opposite sex.

Lounge music from a pianist/singer begins at Happy Hour and goes until closing. Sometimes the room fills with sound, so conversations must sometimes cease. That again may make it a quintessential date place.

Crowds form at night and a line may surface on weekends. The all-female staff is relaxed and is as sophisticated as the room. Valet parking is available at the front of the hotel.

The hotel is a Dallas landmark offering large, older rooms at a reasonable price. Located at the busy intersection of Oak Lawn and Cedar Springs in the heart of Dallas’ gay district, this bar’s clientele is decidedly straight. Other options are within walking distance outside of the hotel.