By Steven Doyle
The big Red River Rivalry started back in 1900 between Texas and Oklahoma University and has been playing in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas since 1932 during the Texas State Fair. The rivalry is bitter sweet and even the governors of both states get in on the action by exchanging a trophy and a side of beef to the winner each year. There were glory days for the big event when fans would rally down Commerce Street in downtown Dallas to be compared to that of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Today the rivalry lives strong with school alumni and fans alike with many flocking to Dallas for the game weekend to attend the game or watch from their favorite watering hole. We have a list of some of the best party spots in Dallas to enjoy the game.
The Granada Theater 3524 Greenville Avenue, Dallas
Whether you are a Longhorn or a Boomer Sooner fan, you will enjoy the comfort of this historic theater located on Lower Greenville Avenue. Enjoy the game on three massive screens set up on the stage which is normally reserved for the hottest indie bands to hot Dallas. The food is made by a real chef and we highly suggest the pizza. A special optional fajita plate is being prepared for the game for $20, otherwise there is no cover. The venue has a great selection of beer, wine and cocktails.
Who you will see: Displaced OU fans, casual locals
What to drink: Local craft beers
Urban Taco 3411 McKinney Avenue, Dallas
Start your game day with a super brunch featuring bottomless $10 mimosas or margaritas until 2pm to get your gears going, then celebrate all day while watching on one 9 jumbo flat screens or on the mammoth screen brought in just for game day. Bar specials include $16 buckets of beer, $2 team shots, and $3 Dos Equis on draft. DJ Chamo will be on hand to blast tunes between plays.
Who you will see: Uptown patio elite
What to eat: Chips and Salsa Trio with a dozen salsas to choose from; street tacos including the Pollo con Mole
Frankie’s Sports Bar and Grill 3227 McKinney Avenue, Dallas
With three locations in Dallas – Fort Worth Frankie’s is the ultimate in local sports bars with 40 big screens scattered in any direction you might look, including a pair of 10’ HDTV projection systems. The food is kicked up sports bar fare which includes fried stuffed jalapenos on a stick or fried Wisconsin Badger Balls. The wings are top notch and house-made. Drink specials all day, and you can start your game day early with brunch to snag a premium seat.
Who you will see: Serious sports fans who love to drink
What to drink: Do It Yourself Bloody Mary Bar
The Fan Sports Lounge 2990 Olive, Dallas
This is the largest Texas Exes party in North Texas. The Fan 105.3 will be broadcasting live starting at 9am, and starting their morning with a full brunch menu which includes $1 mimosas. Reserve your tables early as this is the headquarters for the massive game watching party in Victory Plaza which will be riddled with orange and white with a strong mix of red jerseys. On the patio The Fan will feature 2 DJ’s all day. Drink specials include $15 buckets and $3 Mikes Hard Lemonade. Plenty of door prizes and raffles with TV’s and other gear being offered.
Who you will see: Texas Exes and a sea of OU fans
What to eat: Loaded cheese fries and one of the best Phillies in Dallas