The Usual — Restaurant in Fort Worth

This place is really magical! You walk into the understated but cozy bar and it feels like you are meant to be there. You see the most up-to-date pride flag proudly hanging from the wall and it feels genuine and safe. If you though the atmosphere was good, wait till you get your hands on a drink because, goodness me, these are some of the best I’ve had.

To start, our amazing server, Cynthia, was so knowledgeable on any and everything on the menu, and as an added bonus she had some amazing recommendations!

I had the “sand and sea” first and GOOD LORD it was DEVINE!!! It was complex and elevated but still approachable and fresh, and the way it smelled!!! I also had the “don’t ask, don’t tell” which was amazing, it was floral but not to the point where is was potpourri to the face, and the ginger beer in it was crisp and refreshing.

My partner had the “just keep swimming” which Cynthia described as a Pina colada with a more sophisticated pallet. And that is exactly what it was, it had all of those familiar flavors done so beautifully, like you could pick each one out individually.

This was an amazing first go at the usual. We will definitely be returning to see what their...

I don't drink liquor and mixed drinks, but when I do, I go to The Usual. Done in a speakeasy style, it's easy to miss the entrance unless you're looking. Open the front door and there's an awesome cocktail bar on the other side. By late Friday and Saturday, it's shoulder to shoulder busy, so if you want your cocktail during quieter times, plan accordingly. The bartenders pay careful attention to detail, measuring and pouring their drinks. Their cocktail menu is outstanding and some of the bartenders have their own creations or specialities. Be warned - it's a little pricey, but the crowds are evidence that it's worth it. They have a solid, if small, craft beer selection too.

Insider Info: It's non-smoking, but go out the back door outside to a smoking area. Continue around the corner and you'll often discover a food truck, Holy Frijole, serving up good food. In fact, it's probably the only place you can get food on Magnolia after midnight on the weekends. The last time I was there, you were allowed to bring it inside The...

This is the best place in Fort Worth for craft drinks at a reasonable price.

I visited The Usual on two recent occasions, so I combined each visit in this review.

The area is dimly lit. There are plenty of tables and a patio area. There is lots of space for people to move around and you won't feel squished.

I loved the ancient mariner (mostly rum) and it wasn't sweet, which is my kind of drink.

The bartenders were great. We had a large group playing a board game and they stopped by our table several times to refill waters and ask for our orders. My second drink was off the menu and had grapefruit juice. Still, the mariner was my favorite.

On my second visit, Matthew made a kick ass earl grey shot. Try it if you can! I ordered the ancient mariner (again). It took 15 minutes to make because they needed to find the right bartender to make it. It was still worth it.

The bathrooms are unisex and were well-kept on both visits.

Overall, this is my number one place to go for craft drinks...