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    The Kessler Theater

    4.5 (163 reviews)
    ModerateMusic Venues
    Closed Closed

    The Kessler Theater Photos

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    a stage with a neon sign
    Rue N.

    Came to the Kessler to see Dezi and had an awesome time! This is an small venue in Bishop arts with a bar at the entrance and an intimate seating area for shows (seating I'd guess ~150 ppl, including the U-shaped balcony). The seats were comfortable and there is an area to reserve if you have a group. Sound was great, room for dancing at the front by the stage and all the staff we interacted with were awesome (especially the bartender Scottie who mixed up a delicious tropical cocktail for me) . They don't have food but you can order from PhD next door. Had a wonderful time and I'll be checking out other acts here because I love the venue.

    This is the final curtain call of the Emcee and all the performers.
    Angela V.

    Went to Hotter than Hell Burlesque for my bachelorette party . Absolutely loved the whole evening. Drinks were reasonably priced. The crowd was very enthusiastic. And the show did not disappoint. I even got a shout out from the Emcee. I'm already making plans to take my husband to the next performance. Thank you Kessler the environment was even welcoming to my religious mother.

    Ricardo J.

    I'm giving this place 5-stars based on intimacy and ambiance as well as old-time prices. We came here last night for the English Beat concert and immediately began planning our next visit. The place is small and takes you way back to a simpler time with its welcoming feel and Art Deco-themed set up. The bar staff was friendly and served up cold beer at low prices. The theater interior was small yet accommodating of a good crowd. No matter where we would have stood we would have felt close to the stage. Seeing this legendary band perform here made it a better experience.

    a large crowd of people sitting in front of a stage
    Skip S.

    Great place to see a show. Love the intimate venue and wonderful staff. Full bar is available and food.

    Pleasant Grove show
    Stephen K.

    This is a great space to see a band...intimate, great history and a fun bar right when you walk in. I've been hearing about it for a while now but had never made it down. It's easy to get to from Dallas and the people running it couldn't have been nicer. I had people thanking me for coming as I walked to my car!?! It didn't hurt that I saw an amazing show (Pleasant Grove reunion) http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/bpDiolRQcY8NzYmj3ATLSQ?select=MHJnwJVs2RHBUxH3PUgG1g and the place was packed with who's who of Dallas bands. This has an old-time feel to it: don't go expecting the polish of one of the larger and newer live music venues, but what it lacks in modern conventions it makes up for in character, eclecticism and feel. Can't wait to go back and at least get a drink at the bar.

    The floor lay out changes but here is the one for the Steeldrivers last month
    Alex A.

    This is my FAVORITE venue in Dallas. It is such a cozy venue. There isn't a bad seat in the house. However the upper balcony is where we ALWAYS sit. We have seen people like Kina Grannis, The Steeldrivers, Tyrone Wells, etc here. You can bring food in before a show if you want to eat. They have a bar downstairs and upstairs. The bartenders and door guy are super nice. I have never had a bad experience here. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

    Edie Brickell and the Bohemians from the upper reserved seats
    Jerry K.

    Best venue in town for a music show. I try to make 10 or more shows a year. Tables are the best deal here, but the suites are very comfy for a group of 8. With tables or a suite you can show up last minute and still have a great spot. Upstairs offers great views but get there when doors open to grab a closer seat. I just wish it was a little further north.

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    6 years ago

    Love this place and the sound. The closer you are to the stage the better, duh. Service was great.

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    Page 1 of 5

    Ask the Community - The Kessler Theater

    What is the smoking policy? I'm very allergic....

    Non smoking

    What is the dress code or is there one?

    No dress code...come as you are! Have seen people dressed in suits and ties and jeans and tee shirts at the same show. That said...I am sure they require a shirt and shoes, but that's to be expected.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - The Kessler Theater

    Great intimate venue with good acoustics, fair pricing, comfortable seating and clean bathrooms.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    Texas Theatre - Front of Theater

    Texas Theatre

    4.5(119 reviews)
    1.1 miOak Cliff
    $$

    Texas Theatre is a historic theater in Dallas-Oak Cliff that is part landmark, part time capsule,…read moreand super cool. While the area around the theater has new shops, as soon as you walk into the Texas Theatre you are transported back into time. This is a must visit. My Overall Rating - 5 Stars (Atmosphere, Service, Theater, Return) Atmosphere - As you walk up to Texas Theatre, you'll see an old school lit marquee displaying the current shows and features. Curved, star shaped neon lights spelling "TEXAS" hang outside, guiding you in. Inside, it's chick, cool, and even has a bar. Curved couches imported directly from the 60's remind you that you just stepped back in time. 1 Star. Service - The center ticket booth is no longer used, but the entire staff was super nice, including the bartender. They know the Texas Theater is different and embody the groovy 60's feel. 1 Star. Theater - ICYMI, the Texas Theatre is famous because this is where Dallas police arrested Lee Harvey Oslwald after the assassination of JFK. The seats don't recline, cupholders have been added in between seats, and visible speakers pump out the sound as Texas Theatre moves into the modern era. But honestly, this place is a cool museum. One where you can visit, watch a movie, grab a drink, and step back in time. It's true the mega cinema's may offer you a better movie watching experience, but they're nowhere close to being retro cool like the Texas Theatre. 2 Stars. Will I Return? - Yes. If you haven't been, you should. Watching a movie at the Texas Theatre is like a step back in time. You get to experience what it was like in a super cool setting. I hope this place never changes. 1 Star.

    Wow what a treasure. This theatre is a gem. Is is lovingly preserved. I highly recommend coming for…read morea movie or a live show. Check out the FAQs on their webpage. Best damn FAQs written. Oak Cliff is a wonderful neighborhood . Parking is limited in Jefferson but lots nearby. There are TWO bars inside the theatre and also concessions. Drinks are reasonably priced and service is top notch. Restrooms are small but adequate. And such adorable cozy lounge areas. Do check out my pic. Just great ambiance. 10/10 for style. The only detractor is in the live show: the wings did not have the curtains fully closed and you can see all the activity which is highly distracting. This is a major no no in live shows. It derails a performance. With the attention to detail everywhere else this is a glaring problem. That's fixable - so come see entertainment in a gorgeous historical building serviced by wonderful humans.

    Photos
    Texas Theatre - Exterior facade and marquee on Jefferson

    Exterior facade and marquee on Jefferson

    Texas Theatre
    Texas Theatre

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    The Loft - If you haven't seen the Spazmatics watch them here!

    The Loft

    3.9(31 reviews)
    2.9 miSouth Dallas
    $$

    I finally got to check The Loft out. Wasn't quite sure what I was expecting given that it's above…read morethe Palladium, which is quite large. The Loft is fairly small. Think I heard it holds about 400 people. There's a bar in the back, and a bar to the side of the stage, so it was pretty easy to get a drink at all times (important!). I can't really comment about the sound because the Buzzcocks played LOUD, but I enjoyed it, even when I went deaf. The opening band wasn't really my cup of tea, so we all went out to the patio. A huge patio at that. It was fun looking at the Dallas skyline and watching the hoochie mama's below going to the Pittpull concert. Hello silicone, but I digress. I didn't really mind paying $4.50 for weak cocktails, or $4 for Shiner, even when it was poured in a plastic cup. The bathroom attendant was so unnecessary, though. Is she always there? There are only two bathroom sinks, and we were at a punk show ferfucksake. Any who. I felt the venue was solid for what it does, and the fact that I was able to get so close to punk legends sealed the deal.

    Rubbing Elbows One…read moreof the best reason to go see a live band is the ability to feel the music coming out of their mouths and instruments. That can only be accomplished by being up close and personal. The loft is so much more intimate than the Palladium below. The bartenders can get busy, especially between sets, but don't worry they'll get to you. Between sets take a breather on their awesome balcony. Take some pics with your friend/significant other with the Dallas skyline. With all these positive marks you would expect a 5 star review. Sadly, the band line up is pretty limited. My favorite recurring band are the Spazmatics. I wish they could take a cue from Granada's rotation. Still, if your favorite band comes, it's a no brainer! Band with a view

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    The Loft - Shiner Wicked Picnic

    Shiner Wicked Picnic

    The Loft

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    The Wild Detectives - Seasonal drip.

    The Wild Detectives

    4.1(554 reviews)
    0.9 miBishop Arts District, Oak Cliff
    $$

    The perfect place to read a book or catch up with a friend!…read more I stopped by Wild Detectives for a midday pick-me-up. They have a lot of cozy seating options and a unique selection of books/vinyl records! I got the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Matcha and absolutely loved it! It wasn't too sweet and had just the right amount of cinnamon. Will absolutely be back!

    The Wild Detectives had been on my Dallas bucket list for years, so I was quite excited to finally…read moremake my way to the Bishop Arts District and experience it for myself. First of all, the Bishop Arts District itself is incredibly charming. Block after block of unique shops ranging from bookstores and bakeries to candle shops, candy stores, coffee spots, and little boutiques. It's exactly the kind of neighborhood I loveeeee exploring while traveling and if I lived in Dallas, I'd probably frequent this area often. As for The Wild Detectives, the concept alone immediately appealed to me...bookstore meets cafe meets bar meets restaurant. That combination will pretty much always grab my attention. I love to read, I love to eat. The space has a pretty relaxed, community oriented vibe, and during my Saturday morning/early afternoon visit, there were plenty of people working, reading, chatting, and hanging out both inside and on the patio. My one slight disappointment was that the bookstore side itself was smaller than I expected and didn't have quite as extensive a selection as I had imagined. That said, I still managed to leave with a few great additions for my ever growing TBR pile. Overall, this was a worthwhile stop and one I may revisit the next time I'm in Dallas.

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    The Wild Detectives - Brown Sugar Cinnamon Matcha

    Brown Sugar Cinnamon Matcha

    The Wild Detectives - Front outside entrance.

    Front outside entrance.

    The Wild Detectives - Cute bar

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    Cute bar

    House of Blues - Music Venue - The Runarounds - Jan 15, 2026

    House of Blues - Music Venue

    3.6(821 reviews)
    3.2 miVictory Park
    $$

    What a great place for an intimate concert or music event! I saw David Archuleta in the Cambridge…read moreroom, and I was the first one that I have been to a concert in this specific side room of the house of blues. It was small, intimate, and super fun! Everyone was super respectful about personal space, In the audio was fantastic. There was a much table outside of the room as well as a small one right when you enter the room. This stage was rather small, but it also allowed the audience to see the performers pretty close up. David was super super talented. The two dancers that he had on stage also was a great addition to his vocals. Band was also really good. It was also pretty easy to get an Uber when the concert finished. We definitely recommend seeing one of your favorite artist here, especially since it's such an intimate venue compared to big stadiums in arenas

    Went to see Field Medic in the Cambridge room at HOB. Let me tell you the sound in this room is one…read moreof the best and I go to a lot of concerts. HOB is always very chilly inside and this was no exception. The decor is very nice and since it's small you always have a good view. Only 2 things I did not like. 15 dollars for a canned beer is outrageous. Shots of good alcohol were cheaper at 12.99. The bartender was less than pleasent and very crusty. Then with the show still going on she was closing down the bar. It was before 11pm and people were still wanting drinks. I would live to go here again though just for the room and the sound

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    House of Blues - Music Venue
    House of Blues - Music Venue - Foundation Room bar

    Foundation Room bar

    House of Blues - Music Venue - Foundation Room

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    Foundation Room

    The Rustic - WILD BOAR MEATBALLS

    The Rustic

    3.8(2.3k reviews)
    4.7 miUptown
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    Super friendly staff upon being greeted, showing us to our table and servers…read more I love the design style, feels very rustic as their name indicates. Simple but nice interiors. Wide open spaces full of plenty of dining tables. The outdoor space offers picnic tables and smaller tables, all spread out and offer views of the stage. Live music starting on Wednesdays and going into the weekend. I ordered a rustic burger. Fantastic flavor and juicy not over powering. Watch out for the green chile, it will make some tear up. The servers were all super friendly and always with a smile on their face. Thank you for a great first visit.

    Had an amazing experience at The Rustic! The atmosphere was warm, lively, and exactly what you hope…read morefor when you come here--great vibes, great food, and even better service. Our server Luke absolutely made the brunch . He was attentive without being overbearing, super knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly. You can tell he cares about his guests and takes pride in what he does. Every recommendation he made was spot-on, and he kept everything running smoothly even when it got busy. If you're coming to The Rustic, ask for Luke--he truly elevates the entire experience. We'll definitely be back! If you want it shorter, more casual, or extra hype, tell me the platform (Google, Yelp, Instagram) and I'll tweak it

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    The Rustic - Band area

    Band area

    The Rustic - The Rustic serves a family-style brunch on weekends that is sure to hit the spot.

    The Rustic serves a family-style brunch on weekends that is sure to hit the spot.

    The Rustic - The Rustic Marquee Sign

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    The Rustic Marquee Sign

    The Kessler Theater - musicvenues - Updated May 2026

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