Sharing a run-down space with a local convenience store in a an unobtrusive, if not somewhat scary stretch of Oates Dr. near Ferguson, you've got to keep your eye out for this place, or you will miss it. Â We decided to head here one Saturday night as it is one of the only reviewed spot this far east of Dallas, and we wanted somewhere to stop as we were heading into Dallas from Mesquite.
Walking towards the entrance we noticed a fenced-in area adjoining the bar. Â A sign on the gate thereto read "Warning - Do Not Open. Â Alarm Will Sound." Â The gate that this sign was affixed to was partially open. Â We walked into the smallish space dominated by the horseshoe-shaped bar and took a seat. Service was good (it was the bartender's birthday, as evidenced by a string of dollar bills safety-pinned to her shirt). Â The place seemed fairly populated by regulars, who all seemed ot be enjoying themselves.
Drinks were good, and the soundsystem played an odd mixture of classic rock and cover tunes. Â We took our drinks out to sample the patio, which could best be described as "afterthought." Â Mismatched chairs, all 10-20 year old, Â were spread sparsely along a bare concrete space punctuated by an odd plywood-fashioned gazebo of some sort. Â My friend an I took a couple of seats. Â A party of three who came out shortly thereafter pretty much filled up the rest of the remaining seats.
But what the bar possesses in spades is local flavor. Â Everyone seemed to know everyone else, bartender included, and no one seemed to care that some strangers were invading their local sanctum. Â So if you find yourself on the outskirts of East Dallas, make a stop at J. Murphy's and down a pint or two.
It is totally Megan M's fault I am writing this review, because if it weren't for her I would never have come to this place. Â Or even known where it was. Â Completely not on my radar at all! Â
That being said, this is a dive bar! Â Local neighborhood regulars that all know each other sitting around the bar drinking? Â Check. Â Slightly sassy bartender that isn't putting up with any drunkass shit? Â Check. Â Bar centrally situated and in a U shape so more patrons can get up there to get some libations? Â Check. Â Pool tables? Check. Foosball? Â Check. Â Jukebox with some good selections (and some patrons that insist on playing country instead of rock)? Check. Â Other notable items include a bathroom that didn't gross me out and a home karaoke machine sitting there right beside the jukebox. Â Want to sing along to that song you just played? Â Turn on the karaoke machine and go for it rockstar!!
J Murphy's is definitely a great local neighborhood dive...out of the way, only known by the people that live around there, and full of booze, shit talk, and people watching. Â So, in other words, it is my kind of place!!