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You don't need a six-figure salary to afford the Mansion Bar's new happy hour

The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is renown for its elegant aesthetic, luxury hotel accommodations and, of course, its place in Dallas history. The mansion, constructed as a private residence in the early 1920s, was long a mainstay among the city's high society, hosting extravagant parties and even former United States presidents. To this day, it's a likely place to bump into North Texas' elite and visiting celebrities.

For most locals, especially those on a budget, the hotel's Mansion Bar might not be the first spot that comes to mind when looking for a decent happy hour. But you don't need a six-figure salary to enjoy its new happy hour specials.

Normally, the cocktails above cost $15-$16. But on happy hour, they're an affordable $9....
Normally, the cocktails above cost $15-$16. But on happy hour, they're an affordable $9. From left to right: the Texas Margarita, the Mansion Manhattan and the Mansion G&T from The Mansion Bar.(Rose Baca / Staff Photographer)
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So what's good?

Drinkers will be hard-pressed to find a cocktail they don't like at the Mansion Bar.

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Those looking for a deal, however, should go straight for the signature cocktails, which include one of the best gin and tonics in town.

The Mansion G&T is unlike any gin and tonic you've tried before. The cocktail utilizes the bar's house-made tonic, created with cinchona bark, which not only adds an orange hue to the drink but also gives it a delightfully spicy flavor. Couple that with Kaffir lime leaf and grapefruit zest, and this beverage doesn't look or taste like a run-of-the-mill gin and tonic. And it isn't.

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The G&T isn't the only standout among discounted drink options. Both the Mansion Manhattan and the Texas Margarita on a recent visit were beautifully balanced, allowing the spirits (bourbon and tequila, respectively) to shine.

The price

The Mansion Bar's three signature cocktails normally cost $15-$16, but weekdays from 4 to 7 p.m. they go for $9. Craving something else? Beers cost $4 during happy hour, and select wines, including bubbly, are half-price.

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New cocktail recipes, created by bartender Danny Caffall, won't be discounted during happy hour, but if you're in the mood to #treatyourself, try the Baroque District, featuring Casamigos Resposados tequila, Ancho Reyes liqueur and watermelon ($23), or the Cherry Cooler, a mix of Absolut Cherry vodka, cherry, lime and ginger ale that tastes like an adult Shirley Temple ($14).

Guests receive complimentary olives and nuts to snack on, but if you want something more substantial, splurge for a charcuterie or cheese board ($26).

The vibe

Even the charcuterie board (pictured) matches the elegance of the Mansion Bar.
Even the charcuterie board (pictured) matches the elegance of the Mansion Bar.(Rose Baca / Staff Photographer)

Don't expect a rowdy crowd here. Walking into the Mansion Bar is like ducking into your grandfather's study, complete with dim lighting, book-filled shelves and antique decorations. Cozy booths and tables give the window-less space an intimacy perfect for date night or impressing a client.

Suggested dress code is business casual, though on a recent visit we weren't turned away in T-shirts and jeans.

Still, the Mansion Bar offers a good excuse to get a little gussied up, and with its new happy hour offerings, you can afford to.

The Mansion Bar is located inside the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek hotel, 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas. Happy hour is Monday through Friday 4 to 7 p.m. Parking is valet only.