Today we’d like to introduce you to Phil Schanbaum.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
We like finding iconic historic locations in Dallas that we can bring our own variation to. For 15 years, the Slip Inn’s dance floor was the best in the city so when we heard that it was closing, we were surprised but also saw a great opportunity to reserve an epic bar.
We secured the space, kept a similar layout but added a touch of us, raised the ceiling and gave the exterior a fresh paint job, adding two awesome murals by local artists and, of course, kept the pool table near the entrance. The Whip has successfully met our vision of keeping this space special and giving people a place to be themselves, dance and have a good time.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been very smooth. The neighborhood accepted us right out of the gates and we’re happy to be recognized as one of Dallas’ cult classics.
Please tell us about The Whippersnapper.
There’s no other place like The Whip in Dallas. The Whip sets itself apart by being just that – The Whip. It has something for everyone. It’s an unpretentious place where you can hang out and be yourself. The Whip is everything but ordinary, with retro light fixtures, eclectic artwork covering the walls, a cheetah pool table as you enter on the left and a photo booth on the right. We have talented DJs play dance-worthy music four nights a week so that guests can let loose and have fun more days than not.
Of course, you can’t dance without a disco ball, which you can find at the center of our dance floor. Our bartenders serve up everything from bottles of Boone’s Farm and crazy good cocktails to 40s in a brown paper bag and we offer affordable table service at our towering velvet booths on either side of the dance floor. It’s well known for its unique ambiance, great tunes and talented list of DJs, and has often been called the “best place to end your night.”
What are your plans for the future? What are you looking forward to or planning for – any big changes?
We plan on being in the neighborhood and giving Dallas a fun place to dance, drink and have a good time for many years to come!
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
