When you think of Texas, many things come to mind… Football, brisket, hot summers, and music. But, when you think of Frisco, other things probably pop up… FC Dallas, the Frisco RoughRiders, great schools, ongoing commercial and residential development, and the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters. For a long time, music was missing from the conversation.
The Growing Live Music Scene in Frisco
Over the last few years, a quiet tune has been building in our town. The sound of the Frisco music scene is getting louder, and we couldn’t be any happier for it. Jimmy Buffet has been a staple in Frisco for several years, and for a long time was joined by Edgefest, Off the Rails, Toyota Texas Fest, and a visit from Ed Sheeran. This fall, we’re anticipating Imagine Dragons at the grand opening of the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
Not only have large concerts found their way to Frisco, but we also have some great festivals and events that have become a tradition, such as Frisco StrEATS, Music in the Square, and the Whistlestop Music Festival.
As compared to the city of Dallas, it might be said that Frisco doesn’t have a great live music scene, but I’m here to tell you that Frisco’s local music scene is growing! You don’t have to travel far from home to enjoy great music.
With so much talent in the area and some great patios to enjoy, it’s no surprise that more and more of the Frisco bars and restaurants feature live music. Every week, we publish a weekly events listing which includes the latest live music line up. Be sure to subscribe so that you don’t miss it!
Eight | 11 Place
Located in downtown Frisco on Main Street, eight | 11 is a family-owned home turned into a relaxing bar. The home has a great family history that adds to the already warm and cozy atmosphere. Solo, duo, and acoustic acts frequent the cozy patio and go perfectly with the fire pits and a fantastic selection of wine, beer, and menu items. Local artists Trey Allen Band, Sebastian Valenzuela, and Sophia Annello are frequent guests.
Manny’s Tex Mex Grill
Located in The Rail District in downtown Frisco, Manny’s offers live music every Friday and Saturday from 8:30pm-11:00pm. Their family recipes have been a Frisco favorite for many years, offering a great family-friendly atmosphere, great service, and a fair price.
Frisco Rail Yard
Frisco’s favorite food truck park is known for it’s rotating food trucks but over the last couple of years the Frisco Rail Yard has become just as popular for its live music and community events. The range of music varies from Thursday night solo or duo acts like Joey Salvia and Patrick Casey to the bigger acts on Friday and Saturday’s like Matthew Bell and The Next of Kin, Radio Love Bus, Cast Iron Soul, and The Rumble Kings. If you’re looking for something a little more low key than you can always check out “Sunday Songs by the Tracks” a perfect set of acoustic music to go with a Bloody Mary as the train goes by. The Frisco Rail Yard is a family-friendly environment and fun for all ages, but they discourage children to be there after 9:00pm.
Bottled in Bond
If a night of bourbon and whiskey is something you are looking for, than Bottled In Bond is not only your place but the place to go in and around Frisco. If you’re looking for a mid-week break and need to unwind then you might like a Bourbon and Bacon paring while you listen to live music from Sophia Annello or Andrew Hedges. Experience the thriving era of craft cocktails and American Whiskey in a unique atmosphere that features a fusion of American and Caribbean foods. Contact Bottled in Bond for their current live music calendar. Note: Bottled in Bond is an 18+ environment.
The Common Table
The Common Table is known for many things like an extensive craft beer selection, great cocktails, and an impressive menu. The original location is in Dallas, and they opened up a Frisco space at The Star this year, which offers live music on a regular basis. On a Thursday or Saturday night, you can catch local acts like Tyler Marco, Zuriel Merek or Matthew Gray and Friends. The Common Table almost has a coffeehouse-like feel, except the coffee is replaced with bourbon barrel stouts! Their food is just as fantastic as their brews. You can find their live music schedule on the Events tab of their Facebook page.
The Reservoir
The Reservoir is the latest live music venue to hit Frisco. Located off of Preston Road just north of Main Street. With a full menu, The Reservoir focuses on the party. Featuring local bands every Friday and Saturday such as Metal Shop, Live 80’s, Red Leather, and Le Freak, The Reservoir is also great for corporate events, large groups or just anyone that is looking to dance and play without driving too far from home. If you are looking for other entertainment, they offer Trivia every Tuesday night at 8:00 pm, and karaoke every Thursday night 8:00 pm.
Bonnie Ruth’s Neighborhood Bistro
Step into the relaxed sophistication of Bonnie Ruth’s, Frisco’s favorite neighborhood bistro and dine on hearty fare rooted in classic French technique like steak frites, cast iron PEI mussels, and penne pesto as you sip a cocktail at their Belle Époque style bar. Enjoy their award-winning brunch by the fireplace on their beautiful patio or indulge in one of their made-from-scratch baked goods, made fresh daily in their bakery. Every Thursday night is Ladies’ Night Happy Hour, so gather the girls for some cocktails and enjoy live music! Friday nights offer live music as well, and you’ll find cocktail specials every night of the week.
Frisco RoughRiders’ Party @ The Yard
The Deep Ellum Brewing Party @ The Yard is the place to be and be seen for DFW’s millennials, singles and young professionals looking to get an early start on the weekend, featuring cheap drinks, live entertainment, unique food options, party games, and mixing and mingling with other 21-and-ups. During each Thursday RoughRiders’ home game, the area of the ballpark beyond the outfield wall will open at 5:30pm. DJs and other live entertainers will be in attendance for every Party @ The Yard, where the music never stops playing regardless of what’s happening on the field.
Lava Cantina
Located just outside of Frisco in The Colony, this 18,000 square foot indoor/outdoor live music, concert venue, and restaurant is making a splash in our area. Reminiscent of House of Blues or Hard Rock Cafe, there are 1800 seats and a stage grand enough to feature some really great entertainment. Keep an eye on their Daily Hit List to find out who’s rocking today.
More to Come
As Frisco continues to define itself as a city, the opportunity for more live music venues and music-focused events and festivals is endless. With new developments always in the works, I’m sure that Frisco will not be tuned out when it comes to local live music acts!
Whether it’s a relaxing night with your spouse, a late-night out with friends, or just kicking back listening to a great singer-songwriter, there’s no need to go far. Frisco has a place for you.
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