September is in full swing. Beach vacations, flip-flops and bikinis are fading away. For me, there's a sense of sadness. Pretty soon, the days will be (relatively) cold, and summer lovin' will be just a faint memory.

Photos by JASON JANIK/Special Contributor

But there's a place just outside Dallas' city limits where summer seems to live on. The Belmont Hotel, nestled on the side of a hill overlooking Dallas since 1946, conjures images of Gidget and Moondoggie with its '50s style and retro appeal.

In 2005, the place got a facelift as a boutique destination. Stop by the Bar Belmont for a night and you'll feel like you've gotten away from it all. But the aura of the city will be quietly glowing over your shoulder, inviting you back home – when you are ready. The scene: Boutique hotel meets history museum. With modern art from local artists and up-to-date furnishings, this definitely ain't the original Belmont bar. (There's still respect for times past, though, with framed artifacts and articles that detail its roots.) The bar and lounge get a romantic glow from candlelight, and cushy chairs and love seats make lounging effortless. It is small, but intimate and warm. The patio is spacious with more couches and tables.

The vibe: Cool and casual. Friends are enjoying conversations in clusters throughout the lounge and hotel hallway. Couples are cuddled up on couches, holding hands at the bar and embracing on the patio with the lights of downtown shimmering in the distance.

The music: Unpredictable, but in a good way. During the week, the variety includes classic country and indie rock. Call ahead to find out what bands or DJs might be stopping by. Slobberbone rocked the opening-night party for Belmont's new restaurant, Smoke, on the patio.

What people are wearing: Comfortable boho chic. Guys are in jeans and everything from kitschy tees to pearl-snap shirts. Girls are in patio dresses and jeans and blouses. Seems like cowboy boots are a must. Yes, even with the dresses.

Smoke factor: Smoking is allowed on the patio.

The drink: The Cucumber Martini or the Blood Orange Martini. The former is light and refreshing – perfect for after a meal. The latter is a little thicker and has that strong, bitter bite of a blood orange. The aftertaste is surprisingly sweet, though.

The food: Barbecue restaurant Smoke is the newest addition to the hotel, and had a crowded opening event last weekend, hosted by Kinky Friedman. The menu in the bar will change daily.

Parking: The valet in the hotel driveway is free. If you don't mind a short walk, you can self-park in the lot next to Smoke.

Seen and heard: While waiting in the long line for a bathroom, I see a guy and girl go into one together. Just two minutes later, the guy emerges and says the girl is still using it. The crowd in the hallway starts clapping and cheering for him. (Like I said, it's a romantic spot.)

Bar Belmont. Sunday through Wednesday from 4 to 11 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to midnight. 901 Fort Worth Ave. No cover. 214-393-2300. belmontdallas.com.

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