The Final Night

So, I would like to thank everyone for checking out Denton City Nights. it has been a while since I have posted here. With that being said, I have embarked on a new project, The Denton Traveler, and have come to expand this idea that I started with. This will be the last post I do here, the posts will stay up so you can enjoy them and read about the nights that I had. The new post will allow me to go outside of Denton and bring you some new places that have that fun local feel that I have come to truly enjoy about Denton. You can find the Facebook page here to keep up with me and all my travels and get even more of the things you loved about Denton City Nights. Again, thank you for keeping up and hope to see you out there soon.

The Denton Traveler

PS as always, tip your servers and waitstaff, they work hard for you out there.

The Denton Top 3: Hangouts

I am back, and I have been thinking about this for a while and thought I needed to express my confusion with what ideas keep coming out for restaurants in Denton yet they keep doing horribly. With the closings of Gold Mine Barbecue and Café Herrera as the latest victims, I start to wonder if people are just throwing out these concepts and thinking that the Dentonites will just flock to it if it looks cool or sounds interesting. I get a little upset that they think we as Dentonites are that mindless sheep. I digress, I just thought why not some of these ideas to fill those spaces.

#3 Tapas Restaurant:

So, there are a few out there, yet Denton does not have a great tapas restaurant on the square, it would work well, it would be fun, interesting, and a place like that would be nice on the square. With the small amounts of food and good clean cooking, someone could open a fun and great place that would cater to an upscale yet affordable food. You feel as if you are in a fancy place when you eat there yet you can have a lot of different menu items at a low price. Bringing your friends can be especially fun to share plates and get some different food.

#2 An English Pub: 

I think there should be a English pub that has more of a low key atmosphere. Somewhere there is not
loud music where you are having to scream to try and talk, Somewhere nice, quaint, and quiet that you can have a conversation and a drink. I know there are bars out there, but I would like a place that is more like a pub that is where you can hold a conversation. 

#1 Jazz and Blues Lounge:

This one is a given, with Denton being one of the places where jazz is a staple and blues has a place in the heart of all Dentonites, this is something that should be considered due to the UNT influence to jazz and legendary blues artists from this area including Tom "Pops" Carter. Now, I refer to a LOUNGE for a reason, there are bars out there, and there was an attempt at this a little while back, yet it went out of business due to other issues, I think it would work well if it was done well and managed properly. Something that brings a feel of the old jazz bars with a band and a small dance floor, with bands on a stage. 

These are just my opinion, but I think these are solid ideas for any young entrepreneur ready to make Denton city lights shine. Just some ideas that I think could work, comment if you have any suggestions that would be a good concept that you would like to see. 

And as always, when you are out, tip your waitstaff and bartenders, they work hard so you can have some fun.

The New Year, a New Beer

So, I have been trying to sample some new beers lately, I have found that some of the ones I gravitate to are either wit beers or stouts, I have yet to try a sour beer, until now. I have been talking to some of the guys at East Side Social Club (ESSC) to see what these are about, I have also done some research on these.

Now sour beers tend to be sour but with a bit of sweetness, normally with some kind of fruit. They are unpredictable due to the nature of the brew process, which introduces outside strains of yeast. Now most brewers will tell you that is not a good thing, but for these, it helps their fermenting process. I understand many people are going to comment and say, "Why do you want that to happen?" My reply, "To make it tasty my friends, make it tasty."

Anyway, there are a few out there and some that you should try, ask some of my good friendly bartenders at ESSC or Oak Street Draft House and give some a try. Go against the norm of the beer taste, see what else is out there. There is a growing popularity to these due to the likeness to wines and how they age and get better.

Remember, always tip your bartender.

The Whiskey Side

So, I have been out to the East Side Social Club where I decided to try a good whiskey and some scotch. Well, that had some pretty good conversation. We had a few that were interesting.

 One was a peaty, earthy taste called Laphorig 18 year. That was a tasty one, I sat with it for a bit just sipping it. The other two, which I went back later with my wife and had, was the Angel's Envy Whisky, one was the Port and the other was the Rum. The port cask has a bit of a sweeter taste, but the rum had a good bite to it. Something I would try again.

So, if you are looking to get into Scotch or whisky, check out the East Side Social Club for a bit of a lesson. I would recommend during the day, it is better to ask questions and the bartenders will be more focused on the questions you have rather than trying to ask during a rush (they will be more annoyed with you if you do this). So, be mindful of the other patrons, but if you are looking for something different, give it a try.

Yea, I Like Beer...

Hello fellow Dentonites, if you are anything like I am, you have been seeing many changes to the landscape of Denton. This includes one new bar, the Oak Street Draft House and Cocktail Parlor. Oak Street Draft House (OSDH&CP) is a great place to hang out and relax. They have lots of things going on and interesting beers from some local brewers and more the craft beer specialties. Uniquely placed in a Victorian style home on Oak St near Bell, this place is great with a great patio and outside seating. It is a great place for groups to just hang out and have a beer. Also, they have started offering cocktails with the local Armadillo Ale Works sodas. These are great and have a refreshing flavor that can't be beat. The one thing I enjoy about OSDH is that the atmosphere is like a relaxed house party in your back yard, but no cleanup. I love that feeling where you can have a group of friends and have some  fun and some drinks, with conversation and good music. The beer that you can find there is excellent, very eclectic and lots of variety, plus you can go just up the street to Mellow Mushroom or order food into the back yard. All the bartenders are friendly and will help with a great selection if you need some help pairing a beer with your food. I believe this is a place that is here, and will become another great Denton tradition.

Now if you want to get more involved and have an affinity for a good beer, they do host the Denton area home brewers. You can get more info at www.dchg.org. 

As always, be careful, God bless, and have fun. Always tip your servers and bartenders.

Hot Nights in the City!

Well, this is to more inform of what I have been trying to achieve with Denton City Nights. I love my city, but I know people can tend to get in a rut, same place every time. It gets mundane and repetitive. I want people to post and help me give ideas around the area. Something fun, something interesting to go to or restaurant to eat at that is interesting, good, and different.

I know that there is great food and great little family owned businesses here in the area, please let me know about them. I would love to go and meet the owners and have a bite to see what it is like. I need some help on this, PLEASE like on facebook. and post on the wall.

I am always going places and doing things, karaoke is always a fun time here in Denton and lots of interesting bars, but would like more restaurants and shopping. So, give them all to me Dentonites, I want to know. I will go outside of Denton into the city, so let me know of places close by, not to far though.

Now We're Going to Party Like It's....2012.

 Well, it has started, 2012 is upon us and 2 days in. This is going to be the year of experimenting, no not that way. First, I have started a new hobby, I know the guys at Armadillo Ale Works are scared, but I have started my first batch of home brewed beer, compliments of my sister, thanks sis. I have always wanted to try, never had the funds or where to start, it was fun.

I know I cheated a little, it was my first time and wanted to get the process down. I covered it with my Guinness shirt in hopes that it would help (I don't think it will). I will keep everyone posted on this.

Second, I have started back to get out and about, Vigne Wine is a new place that I have tried with some friends, wonderful time and the owner is very friendly. Nice times when you are wanting something different and a little more elegant, yet not where it makes you feel uncomfortable. There has been some new wines I have tried, they are very good and available there, but let them know what you like and you will be pleasantly surprised. They also have a great selection of beers, oddities even I was not aware of. 

Third, I will promise this year to be a little more interesting and posting more to let you know about new things to try, you can live vicariously through me or help me and let me know what you have found by commenting when applicable. Post on the Denton City Nights Facebook of places and new things you have tried, I am looking forward to more input this year from you guys. Please feel free to do so. I have been trying this and been unsuccessful. I hope this is the year it will come around. 

So, happy new year, I hope everyone had a good and safe new year's eve, and hope everyone has a prosperous new year. Remember, get out there and experience Denton and all it has to offer.

Back in Black

Well, I am back, I know it has been a while, had some interesting adventures. I have been a bit busy with my personal life, so, sorry that it has been a few weeks, okay, a month.

On to the fun, I went to see Bone Daddy and the Hickory Street Hellraisers, one of the best local acts. If you like a bit of old big band sound and some of that style of rocabilly, this is your band. Anyways, I was all over.

Now, there is also a good place to go, I have been looking for a good restaurant for a little while, if you want some good Mexican, check out El Matador. They have some good food at good prices. Excellent flavors and a great place.

Also, anyone looking for some good wines, Vinge on the square has been a place that seems to know what is good. Great food, great selection of wine and a great atmosphere. A good place to find a nice present for your someone who likes a good wine.

Now the lighting of the square is coming up. Hope to see everyone there. Friday December 2nd starting @ 5:30pm-9:30p. Check out all the going on at the site and maps and where to park. Have a great Thanksgiving, and remember to do something for someone this Christmas. Think about others this year that are less fortunate.

Remember to tip your bartenders and waitstaff, they are working to make your holiday bright.

Charlos

The Good, the Bad, and the Exciting

Well, first of all, the good, Rangers secured their 2nd ALDS Championship to now go on to the World Series, if you want a few suggestions of where to watch the game keep reading. 

The exciting, there are some goings on here in the next weeks. Hooligans will be having their Halloween party on Saturday before, as will RT's. Get dressed up, take some pictures, I would like to see everyone's pictures, and have fun, friend me on Facebook or like DCN on there and upload some good photos of your outings. 

Well there is some bad news that I just remembered, the Rangers will have to defeat the underdogs of the year, The Saint Louis Cardinals. I think this might be our one chance, but they are looking good this year. Hooligans, RT's, The Labb will be having it on all screens I am sure. There is also the Loophole, 2 Charlie's where you can watch, then check out the new deck at 2 Charlies. Personally, I will probably try to catch mine in a few places, so just keep an eye out for me, most likely I will be at Holligans or The Labb for a few, possibly going to try some new places. 

I would like to thank Lauren, Jordan, Erin, Toni (hope I spelled that one right), and all the other staff at Holligans, again, for a good Sunday. Also, a shout out to some new people as well, you know who you are, thank you and had good times and good conversation. Trey you know how to run a good bar, love the food, thanks for a good Rangers game watching.

And as always, I leave you with this, tip your waitstaff, bartenders, and others that serve you well.

I Finally Found My Way

Ok kids, here it is, My day has been riddled with interesting things, first off, the blog title has a reason, the lead singer and bassist of KISS is now married, that's right, Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed tied the knot this weekend. I am a little proud and know that for people that are "dating" and it seems like they will never commit, this is your hopeful story. 

On to the real reason we are here, RT's has recently introduced a new menu, Trey has outdone himself. I know this is hard to believe, but, the new menu items are interesting and fitting. First off, the fried olives are something that is heaven in your mouth, the salty mix with bleu cheese (not misspelled) stuffed olives have a great texture and flavor, they are a little bit interesting at first, but once you figure out what you are tasting, it is a great little appetizer that will make you come back for more. Then there is the the mini corn dogs and the Philly cheese steak sandwich, these are mouth watering awesomeness, my friend had the Philly and had a pudding grin throughout the whole thing. I had the mini corn dogs, they are a great mixture of sweet salty goodness, billed as an appetizer, this can be a meal for those that just want a little something. There are also now flavored popcorn and other interesting items that will make you think twice about ordering the standard fare here. 

We then headed to Lewisville, I know, not Denton, yet I am still about the area, they need love too. There we were at Vitty's where I was able to relax outside during this wonderful weather. DJ Paul Andrews was there hosting a party outside on the patio, fun was being had, all the adults could have fun while the kids could run around and feel apart of the experience. Jordyn, Cliff, Russ, April and the rest of the staff will take care of you if you want to book a party on the patio. They will make your experience a good one. When you are looking for a place to host a party, family get together, or just friends that have been looking for a place to meet and reconnect, this is it. 

Later I went to Hooligans, yes again, yet had a new experience with the staff. They do make you feel at home here, when you feel like no bar will take you in, stop by and they will take you in as a regular from the first day. Tye (sorry if I spelled that wrong), Jordan and the rest of the waitstaff are wonderful and have ideas and suggestions that will make you want to sing the theme to Cheers when you are there, you feel like everyone knows your name.They always have made my experience there a good one and made me feel comfortable.

A great night was had by all and I thank all my servers and bartenders, and remember that tips are the BEST way to thank them. 

 -Charlos

Like a Rhinestone Cowboy

Well people, tonight was an interesting night, decided to go with my co conspirator to see how a place outside of Denton could stand up to our style of party. Well, that did not go well. We started at Denim and Diamonds, a country bar in Addison, well, let me say, the atmosphere was not as what I had hoped and the drink specials were the same. I was hoping that there would be at least a small drink special there to promote an opening month, this was the disappointment. The atmosphere was somewhat of city trying to be country, it was frightening, girls with boots but not knowing what to do in them it seemed. There were some dancers for the country but most of the dancers were there when the club music came on. I did not enjoy this experience, everyone seemed as if they were trying hard to be country, you know those people. I felt like I was walking into a strip club with a dance floor, it was uncomfortable for those of you who are not the city dwellers that need to be out to be seen. A cheers was overheard saying "Cheers to not this bar." This was the perfect statement about this place.

The night progressed to Rockin' Rodeo, this is the place I have come to love, country girls having a good time and wanting to dance, to everything. I am not saying that club style music is bad, just that if you are a country bar, people should go to dance to country. Denim and Diamonds could take some advice from Rockin' Rodeo with the atmosphere, specials, and good time had by all. Not just girls sitting around needing to be seen and wearing the bedazzled belt buckle, come on ladies. 

Overall, once again, Denton has proven that they have a party and have fun when we can. Still going to always support my local charities, my bartenders and servers here in Denton. Thank you Rockin for a great night and a fun time had by all. 

And as always, remember to contribute to your favorite charity, your local bartenders and servers and tip, this is what they work for and what you should expect to do.

-Charlos

dentoncitynights.com

Hailey's... No Not the Comet

Went to my friend Mark Wheel's show yesterday, had a blast, great first time at Hailey's. You can check them out on Facebook or their website. There are also some shots of the band The Devarauxs, awesome job guys. Overall, Hailey's is a real good venue for concerts, wide open, lots of room. Plus if you have a chance, my favorite part of the experience was the beer wall, a beer drinker's paradise. There are some great bands coming soon, so check the pages to see a schedule of events, go out and have a good time.

As always, remember to tip your servers and bartenders, take care of them and they will take care of you.

Lazy Saturday

Well, it has been a long day at work. But, would like to let people know about the fun that is going to be around Denton this weekend. Of course if you didn't get your fill of football on Saturday with all the great college games, Sunday is all about the big boys, the NFL. There are a few bars that I believe are some of the best to watch the game. First you have The Labb, if you haven't been there yet, try it out. Then there is always Hooligans, the upstairs you can lounge and watch the game.

There is also the Denton Blues Festival at Quakertown Park finishing up tomorrow if you want some live music. There is always some live music later on around the square.

There is always something happening in Denton, so get out kids and have some fun before classes start for the week. Always remember to tip your servers and bartenders.

Just an Update...Live From Public House

First, we are here doing a DJ event with DJ Paul Andrews @ Public House until 2am. Come out, have some fun from all the studies and fun, then you can go home and finish. I know, I am a bad influence. If you cant make that, check out Denton's Rock Express by Wheels Productions happening at Haley's just off the square on Friday 9/23. There are great bands playing and lots of fun. Support a great guy, if you don't know who he is, then get to know him. For more info, check out the facebook page by clicking on the link. 


Now there is also a fashion show at UNT, go to HiTek Wear for more info. Matt Dorsey is a good friend and very innovative with technology and fashion. Check him out for more interesting designs. 


So if you don't have anything to do, then check these out, go out and have some fun. Meet people, get some good conversation and a good drink. All you students have had a few weeks, get out and relax.


Always remember to tip your servers and bartenders, tipping is not just for cows.

School's Back from Summer!

Sorry, had to change it around a little. For all you Dentonites out there, there are some great places to go and things to do still, even on the weekend. I know that there are times that you get bored and tired of the same old routine, here are a list of interesting things you can do:

1. Check Midway Mart and find out how many different craft beers there are and try a new one out.. 
2. Go to Beth Marie's and make a new flavor out of what they currently have. 
3. Try the Guiness Ice Cream at The Abbey Inn
4. On Wednesdays, try to see if you can out sing and perform at Andy's with karaoke, on the main stage
5. Check out Metzler's on Londonderry for good Barbeque. 
6. Go to Riprocks and count how many cell phones there are on the wall. 
7. Check out RT's and see if you can find out the exact length of the bar. If you want an extra challenge, see if you can figure out the area. Plus, get some lunch there. Great food.
8. Find out which bar has the smallest bar. (I think I know this one)
9. Try one of the Taquillarias here in town.
10. See if you can get a message up on one of the Frenchy's Trucks.
11. Find out about the Morrison's Corn-Kits sign history. 
12.  Count how many businesses start and shut down in the Golden Triangle Mall 

This should give all you guys some extra things to think about this year and just some interesting tidbits about Denton, TX. And good luck to all the students, new and returning.

The Weekend

School is starting up and Denton has doubled in population. I will now have trouble finding a seat, getting a beer and finding space on the dance floor. But enough of my issues, this weekend I did a few things, Saturday night me and a friend went to Rockin' Rodeo and Electric Cowboy, great place if you want to go out and get your cowboy boots out and scoot around the dance floor. If you are looking for some fun and a good time, both are great, Rockin' Rodeo is good for the live music, I know Johnny Cooper is coming on Sept. 15th, so go and see him, one of my favorite up and coming Texas music artists.

Also, went to Chuy's, one of the new restaurant additions in Denton, wow, now that is a place to go, love the bright decor, salsa and chip bar, the food; which I only had an appetizer, is one of the best tex-mex places in town. I still have yet to have a main course there, but if the appetizers are the intro to the meal, I am wanting to see the main event.


I know it has been a while since I posted, so, I would like to encourage everyone to have fun, get out there, and your servers and bartenders are working hard for you, they work for your tips, so, always tip.

Ah, My Public... House

Last night I went out to Public House, now if you are looking for a place to have some fun, that is it. Now Public House has more of a younger crowd, but you can still have some fun. With the outside deck and karaoke on Tuesdays and big screen TV's to watch most sporting events, you can still sit back in one of the booths and watch the fun. They have some good food as well and cheap drinks if you stick with well drinks.
If you want a little bit of different fun, head out there and enjoy.

The Little D

Well, I am embarking on a interesting concept here. I am looking to start this whole enterprise that ultimately will let the people decide. I have been all around Denton, I have been to all the bars with the exception of Mable's and Haley's, I am going just to get the experience. Ultimately what I would like to have are some people to vote on their favorite places, things to do, where to go, where to have fun on your days off.

I am going to start needing comments on who are some of the best bars in Denton, TX,  AKA the "Bar Brawl". I am going to set up a bracket to see where is the best bar. I need input to make sure I include all the bars in the area. I don't want to miss even one hole in the wall place. I will also be doing some polls on the best burger, best sports bar, best karaoke bar, best taps (that's beer, not dancing), the best concerts, etc. I have been starting to collect names, just need help to make sure I have everyone.

Please leave a comment at the bottom so everyone knows who has already been suggested.


I will see you guys out and about.