Happy hour. Those magical words that signal the end of the workday and the beginning of relaxation and good times. But navigating the world of happy hour menus, especially at a tap house with its ever-changing selection of beers, can be tricky. This guide will help you maximize your happy hour experience at your favorite tap house, no matter which one you frequent. We'll cover everything from typical offerings to insider tips for getting the most bang for your buck.
What to Expect on a Typical Tap House Happy Hour Menu
Tap house happy hour menus vary wildly depending on location and establishment, but some common threads usually emerge. Expect to see deals on:
-
Beer: This is the cornerstone of any tap house happy hour. You'll likely find discounts on drafts, often featuring a rotating selection of their most popular or seasonal brews. Look for deals on pints, flights (small tastings of multiple beers), or even growler fills (taking beer home in a reusable jug).
-
Appetizers: Happy hour often includes discounted or specially priced appetizers designed for sharing. Think bar snacks like nachos, wings, pretzels, sliders, or even more elaborate small plates. These are perfectly sized for fueling your happy hour conversations.
-
Wine and Spirits: While beer is the star, many tap houses also offer reduced prices on select wines and cocktails during happy hour. This broadens the appeal to those who prefer other drinks.
What Time is Happy Hour at Tap Houses?
This varies greatly! Some tap houses run happy hour for a couple of hours in the late afternoon/early evening, while others may extend it throughout the entire evening or even offer different happy hour specials on different days of the week. Always check the specific tap house's website or social media pages for their exact happy hour times and days. Don't assume anything – even calling ahead is a great idea!
What are the Most Common Happy Hour Deals at Tap Houses?
The most common happy hour deals at tap houses are:
- Discounted Draft Beer: This is the bread and butter of most tap house happy hours. Expect discounts ranging from $1-$3 off per pint or other pricing variations.
- Half-Price Appetizers: Many tap houses offer half-price appetizers during happy hour, making it an economical way to sample a variety of snacks.
- Special Cocktail Prices: Look for deals on specific cocktails or reduced prices on house wines.
- Flight Specials: A flight is a great way to try a few different beers without committing to a full pint of each. Happy hour often offers discounted flights.
Are There Any Hidden Gems or Special Happy Hour Offers I Should Look For?
Absolutely! Tap houses are often creative with their happy hour promotions. Keep an eye out for:
- Daily Specials: Some tap houses change their happy hour offerings daily, offering different beer discounts or appetizer specials each day of the week.
- Seasonal Specials: Expect seasonal beer deals or themed appetizers to align with holidays or specific times of year.
- Loyalty Programs: Many tap houses have loyalty programs that reward frequent customers with extra discounts or perks during happy hour.
- Social Media Deals: Follow your favorite tap houses on social media; they frequently announce special happy hour deals or promotions exclusively through these channels.
How Can I Make the Most of My Tap House Happy Hour?
To maximize your happy hour experience:
- Check the Website or Social Media: Confirm the times and specific offers before you go.
- Go Early: Popular tap houses can get crowded during happy hour, so arriving early is recommended.
- Check the Beer Selection: Before committing to a pint, take a look at the tap list to see what's on offer.
- Share Appetizers: Ordering a few appetizers to share with friends is a cost-effective and fun way to enjoy the happy hour menu.
By following these tips and utilizing the information above, you'll be well-prepared to navigate the exciting world of tap house happy hour menus and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation and delicious drinks. Remember to always drink responsibly.
