As you pedal your LimeBike down the streets of Dallas’ Bishops Art District, one shop in particular stands out. It’s an inviting, residential structure tucked in among the houses, with a red picket fence and a small sign hanging off the front porch.

The inscription reads: “The Wild Detectives.”

Even if you’ve never read the Roberto Bolaño novel that inspired it, you have to appreciate such a compelling name. It’s visceral and mysterious; something about it instinctively makes you want to learn more. And for owners Javier García del Moral and Paco Vique, that’s exactly the point.

“Our initial goal was to create a place where people could enjoy, share, and consume culture,” says Javier. “Books were the initial driver, although drinks, coffee, records, and events were always in the mix.”

That’s right; The Wild Detectives is Dallas’ first bar and bookstore.

In the three years since they opened, Javier and Paco have succeeded in creating a remarkable atmosphere that’s equal parts American Wild West and French Latin Quarter. Depending on the day, you can find a great new read, catch a live performance, bury yourself in lattes and laptop work, or simply belly up to the bar for a locally-brewed cold one.

It’s open, wood-laden interior is optimal grounds for conversation - and that’s not by accident:

“We believe that atmosphere plays a big role in how people interact with each other,” says Javier. “You don’t carry yourself the same way everywhere you are. So we try to provide our city with a space that encourages conversation using different elements: books, events, records, and other things that may help people feel more comfortable to be open minded, share thoughts, or express curiosity.”

And the duo’s commitment to Dallas doesn’t stop there. By serving locally sourced food and beverages, Javier says he hopes to give his customers a strong sense of the surrounding community.

“We are lucky to live in a city where you can find local companies offering top quality products for almost everything you need,” he says. “I think It would be obscene not to do it that way if you have the possibility.”

So what should LimeBike riders expect from a visit to The Wild Detectives? You know, besides the kind of cultural engagement and sumptuous goodies that have turned it into one of Dallas’ most beloved small businesses?

In a word, character.

“I think they will find an inclusive environment, a place with a strong personality that still makes everybody feel like home,” says Javier.

Hey, when the in-store pickup of your new Hemmingway novel comes complete with a complimentary whiskey and soda (or any other drink), it doesn’t get much more inclusive than that.

Click photos for attribution.