The Mockingbird

Beneath Avenida Cantina—a San Antonio–inspired newcomer taking on the polarizing world of New York Tex-Mex (Javelina, El Original)—lies this tequila-focused saloon from Dallas native Christen Hagan (Double Wide Bar) and partner Josh Gent. Unmarked, save for a sign depicting the eponymous state bird, the basement bar turns out Southern-twanged takes on classic cocktails (jalapeño-basil martini, mescal mule) as well as six-buck bottles of Corona and Lone Star State–exported Shiner. Settle into dark-
red banquettes or at the wood-fitted bar to offset your liquor with limited food offerings from upstairs, including a selection of meaty breakfast tacos (chorizo, fried avocado) served until 2am. Along with the requisite sports screenings (focused on Texas teams, natch), the saloon also plays host to stand-up comedy (Andrew Ian Bayroff, Erin Maguire) and burlesque performances (Pearls Daily, Nina La Voix).