Tradewinds Social Club

Tradewinds Social Club Rocks!. This is my local hangout. I can literally walk home from here (and have had to on occasion). Back in September, “winds” ownership changed hands and Phillip Jester, once a co-owner of Lee Harvey’s, and his partner Ken Arkwell have taken hold of the reigns. “I define a “dive” as really a neighborhood bar” said Jester of his new project, and he intends to keep it just that. They’ve put on a new coat of paint, added some cool vintage lighting, and a parachute-covered ceiling over the dance floor, and have incorporated a cozy conversation pit. Several new beer and liquor selections have been added as well, and they serve one hell of a pizza. There is something going on almost every night and the patronage is extremely diverse. The industry crowd has begun to discover Tradewinds and late night business is certainly picking up. Stop by for one of the daily happy hours or some karaoke and shoot some pool, throw some darts, or play a rousing game of shuffleboard. Phil, Ken, and Melissa will be very happy to see you.…

SMU sorority girls?!. This is an Oak Cliff dive bar with the now defunct Expo bar feel. In fact, one of the owners, Phillip used to own Expo. The crowd ranges from urban hipsters to seasoned old-timers for an interesting mix. But SMU sorority girls? Please. I've never seen them there, and believe me, I hope I never do. I'd hate for the SMU/ Uptown douches to ruin Tradewinds like they do Lee Harvey's on some nights. Us Cliff dwellers like to keep the OC a douche-free zone.…