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Top picks in San Diego

Cool happy hour

You refuse to spend your downtime in a generic bar. You want a happy hour that feels as curated and interesting as the rest of your life.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Bay City Brewing Co Tasting Room image 1
Bay City Brewing Co Tasting Room image 2
Bay City Brewing Co Tasting Room image 3
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Brewery features a chill atmosphere with a rooftop patio offering views and ample seating. The space includes a pool table downstairs and plenty of TVs for sports, creating a social vibe. It welcomes dogs and offers great beer alongside solid food options like pizza.

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm with 50% off the entire tab on Fridays. Drinks like the 8.2% Hazy DIPA go for just $5, making it one of the best deals downtown.

Super cool rooftop area stands out with great views and vibe. The tasting room offers a pretty cool atmosphere for enjoying drinks.

People are saying

"I loved the Pilsner and Blonde Ales."

"I loved the awesome rooftop bar and its great views."

"I enjoyed the cool rooftop area with an impressive outdoor space."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm with 50% off the entire tab.

2

Sundays feature a $6 pint special.

3

The brewery is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

02
Ale Tales Taproom and Kitchen image 1

Gastropub with dog-friendly space and rotating craft beer selection creates a relaxed, welcoming vibe that feels like a neighborhood bar. Friendly regulars and outdoor seating add to the casual, positive atmosphere. Food offerings include well-rated hearty dishes that complement the drink options.

Offers all day Monday happy hour with a great spot to hang out with friends. Perfect for watching sports and catching up before or after games.

Owners stay very involved, keeping something cool happening all the time. It feels like a cool little spot with a lively vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the great selection of local beers on tap."

"Happy Hour food is delicious, plentiful, and perfectly crispy."

"The American Food here is excellent, especially the brisket."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Mondays, making it a great time to visit.

2

They offer special full-course meals every two weeks that can be pre-ordered.

3

The place is perfect for watching sports or gathering with friends before or after a Padres game.

03
The Balboa image 1
Bar & grill

Dive bar with vintage decor and laid-back vibe offers a friendly atmosphere with arcade games and pool tables. Music and lighting create a relaxed, unpretentious setting that attracts a younger crowd. Several TVs and wood seating tables support casual hangouts and game watching.

Happy hour features drink specials and burger deals that offer better value than usual. The atmosphere suits those looking for a solid happy hour experience in the area.

A cool bar with great food creates a chill spot to watch games or play pool.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing."

"I found the burger to be incredible and one of the best."

"I thought the burgers here were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM, Tuesday to Friday.

2

During happy hour, burgers cost $8 for a 1/3 lb. single cheeseburger.

3

Monday's burgers are $8 all day for dine-in only.

04
Rosemarie's Buns & Brews image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small hamburger spot offers an open beachy vibe with dog-friendly patio and sunroom seating. Atmosphere feels laid-back and lively, with loud music and a warm, welcoming energy. Crowd includes families and friends enjoying unique, well-priced sliders and good beer on tap.

Happy hour runs until 6 pm with extended hours for events like the OB womenโ€™s club. Food arrives quickly when it's not crowded, and service stays fantastic even with limited staff.

Small space creates a laid-back vibe. Staff stays friendly and cool. Atmosphere suits hanging out with friends.

People are saying

"The sliders here are huge and delicious."

"You have to try the crispy, seasoned sliders during Happy Hour."

"It's so cool they congratulated my son after boot camp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM for the OB womenโ€™s club event.

2

The restaurant has onsite parking available in the back.

3

Each slider costs $8 and is palm-sized, perfect for mixing and matching.

05
The Mixer image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant combines indoor and outdoor seating with numerous TVs for a high-energy sports bar vibe. Music and live events create a buzzing atmosphere where fans cheer and enjoy themed nights. Burgers and cocktails stand out amid a setup designed for football watching and socializing.

Happy hour features well priced drinks and food, with $6.25 drinks and $7.25 food options. The butter burger stands out as a popular choice, and house beers are available during this time.

Vibes and atmosphere feel relaxed and inviting. The outdoor space adds a fresh, open element. Owners come across as genuinely cool and approachable.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing, truly the best."

"Our server Ryan was so kind and attentive during Happy Hour."

"The burgers here are perfectly seasoned, crispy, and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $6.25 drinks and $7.25 food options.

2

The Bravo watch party for RHOSLC is on Tuesday nights.

3

Parking is ample and convenient near The Mixer.

06
American Comedy Co. San Diego image 1

Comedy club with an intimate basement vibe and brick walls creates a prohibition-era atmosphere. The room features low ceilings and great acoustics, fostering a fun and friendly energy. Shows attract a mix of performers and an attentive crowd, with seating arranged for optimal viewing.

Happy hour features $5 pints and $9 cocktails with some of the best drink specials downtown. Shows start at 8 PM, making it easy to enjoy drinks before the comedy begins.

Brick walls and underground stairwells give a prohibition vibe. The atmosphere feels friendly and the people are super cool.

People are saying

"The comedians here are genuinely funny and great performers."

"The staff here makes your Date Spots experience awesome and memorable."

"The bartenders here make great drinks during Happy Hour."

Good to know

1

Doors open at 7:15pm for the 8pm show.

2

The open mic night has free admission.

3

A two-drink minimum is required during shows.

07
Steamy Piggy Point Loma image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.

Happy hour offers a variety of dishes at discounted prices. The atmosphere suits groups like friends and family, with attentive service from staff like Eugene.

Inviting atmosphere features cool ambiance lighting and great music choices. Friendly staff add to the laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions huge."

"Happy Hour staff like Eugene and Mr. Oz are so attentive and kind."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

08
CinKuni (Italian & Japanese Cuisine) image 1

Spacious restaurant blends Japanese and Italian culture with art-filled walls and a visible brick pizza oven. Atmosphere feels upscale and casual with loud 80s-90s music and a lively vibe. Features include a big screen TV lounge and a dog-friendly patio.

Happy hour offers a varied selection that changes by day, including wings and pizza. It runs until 7 p.m. on industry Monday and includes a notable Wednesday option.

An amazing atmosphere sets a really cool vibe here. It works well as a spot to eat and hang out.

People are saying

"The Gnocchi Urbino was delicious and tender."

"I loved the pizza during Happy Hour; the crust was great."

"I found the atmosphere here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 p.m. on industry Mondays with great drink selections.

2

Every Wednesday, there are free comedy shows starting at 8 p.m.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10 p.m. with a two-drink minimum.

09
Happy Medium image 1

Bar offers tight seating and a lively, loud atmosphere with whimsical TV entertainment and outdoor patio with heaters. Crowd feels packed but friendly, welcoming locals and non-locals alike. Music and people watching create an energetic vibe ideal for socializing.

Happy hour features great specials and a very energetic vibe. The spot is kid friendly and easy to find parking near at 3 PM.

Cool vibes come from a trendy, hip, and neighborly ambiance with very cool cocktails and a friendly, cool team at the bar.

People are saying

"The cocktails during Happy Hour were fun and excellent."

"The Wisconsin Cheese Curds here are amazing, and the staff is super friendly."

"The vibe here is so cool and neighborly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 PM to 6 PM with great drink specials.

2

Parking is usually difficult, but I found a spot right in front.

3

The venue is kid-friendly, making it suitable for family visits.

10
Dorothy's Wine Bar image 1

Wine bar offers an eclectic aesthetic with intimate decor and a vibrant, chill atmosphere. Spacious, dog-friendly outdoor patio features heaters and blankets, enhancing comfort. Live music and on-site art contribute to a creative, neighborhood vibe with unique wine selections from around the world.

Happy hour features super tasty wine and surprisingly low prices. Snacks complement the drinks well, making the menu feel like a great deal.

Warm and inviting energy creates an effortlessly cool vibe throughout. Familiar and fun atmosphere matches the people who run it.

People are saying

"The wine list here is thoughtfully curated with unique selections from around the world."

"The Happy Hour here feels like home with its warm, sociable atmosphere."

"The people here are so welcoming and effortlessly cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm daily with discounted drinks.

2

Every Sunday features live music on the patio, enhancing the atmosphere.

3

Parking may be hard to find during busy weekends at Seaport Village.

11
Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar image 1

Bar with outdoor seating under awnings and live daily music creates a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. Fans circulate air at the bar, while heat lamps warm the outdoor tables. Frequented by shoppers and solo visitors, it offers self-seating and a lively crowd.

Happy hour offers $5 beers, a special menu, and attentive service. Music plays while drinks come at discounted prices.

Zach stands out with his cool tattoo and great hair, making the service vibe unique. The spot also features an oasis that adds a refreshing touch to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, especially the espresso martini."

"This bar has such a relaxing, vacation vibe."

"The staff during Happy Hour were so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3pm to 6pm with great drink deals.

2

Mai Tai Mondays offer special pricing on cocktails every week.

3

Live music is featured on weekends, enhancing the dining experience.

12
BoujieMana image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers a spacious, tasteful interior with a beautifully designed bar and airy ambiance. The atmosphere balances trendy and exquisite vibes, creating a perfect setting for both casual and company events. Outdoor seating with heaters adds a comfortable option for families and groups.

Happy hour offers a generous drink selection and a menu with flavorful deviled eggs, chicken wings, fries, and pepperoni pizza. Food is consistently well cooked and delicious during this time.

Open layout creates an uber cool atmosphere. Bathrooms feature bidet toilet seats and seriously cool lights that add to the vibe.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has delicious chicken sandwiches on house-made pita."

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The deviled eggs and chicken wings during Happy Hour were excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to limited tables.

2

Happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

3

Parking is available onsite, but it can be limited during peak hours.

13
Sushi Yorimichi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy sushi restaurant with intimate atmosphere and authentic Tokyo vibes. Limited seating creates a warm, inviting space often packed with charm. Music adds to the serene, chill energy, making it ideal for quiet meals or dates.

Happy hour offers great deals with reasonable prices on a special menu. Many visit during weekdays to enjoy these major bonuses.

Inside feels modern and sleek, creating a unique vibe. The food offers a fresh twist on Japanese classics.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazingly fresh and well-priced."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious during Happy Hour."

"I found the decor inside to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with discounted prices on select items.

2

The restaurant can only accommodate about 25 customers at a time.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

14
The Whiskey House image 1

Walls and shelves display a world-record whiskey collection with over 4,500 bottles from around the globe. The space offers indoor and outdoor seating with options like bar, lounge, and booths, creating a laid-back speakeasy vibe. Background music adds to the fun atmosphere enjoyed by many.

Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm with drink specials and a solid menu. Options include a burger, steak, wings, scotch eggs, and a Scotch-marinated pork chop served with salad or fries.

Dark ambience sets a cool vibe inside with a large selection of whiskeys and bourbons. The atmosphere feels relaxed and chill.

People are saying

"The whiskey selection here is unparalleled and impressive."

"I enjoyed the great happy hour specials."

"I was impressed by the cool, astonishing whiskey selection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

The Whiskey House has the largest whiskey collection in the world with over 4,500 varieties.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during peak hours.

15
formoosa image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese restaurant features a wrap-around bar with chic modern decor and classic 90s and 2000s hip hop music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with lively energy and good music. Seating focuses on bar spots, offering a unique view of food preparation and torch-lit bowls.

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 2 to 5 pm with most items a dollar off. Drinks like the Guava Margarita cost $7, and food options include beef noodle soup and popcorn chicken.

Staff like Kai and Kiana bring a super cool vibe. Bar seating offers a unique setup that stands out from typical restaurants.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is so flavorful and the beef is tender."

"Their beef noodle soup is god tier, seriously flavorful."

"I loved the cool vibe and fun music here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2-5 pm, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Most happy hour items are $1-3 off, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Parking is available in a plaza lot, but payment is required.

16
Good bar image 1
Bar & grill

Dark, divey bar with local live music and an outside food truck creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music balances well with conversation, and energy builds late at night. Regulars enjoy cold, refreshing beer and standout bar food like Philly cheesesteaks and fish tacos.

Happy hour runs every day from 2pm to 6pm with good prices. The happy hour burger stands out, and taps include Pliney and Happy Hops.

A little dive bar with a cool vibe where staff like Jordan and Robert are super cool and easy to talk to.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is tasty and beautifully presented."

"I loved the happy hour burger; it was among the best."

"It's a cool bar for night life."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 12 PM to 6 PM with food and drink specials.

2

Karaoke is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 10 PM.

3

The bar hosts trivia nights most Wednesdays at 8 PM.

17
TopSail image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views with a chic and charming ambiance. Outdoor seating includes lounge groups with fire pits that create a chill atmosphere by the water. Music plays at a comfortable level, enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Offers wine and cocktails during happy hour with food options. Hosts large gatherings comfortably for happy hour events.

Waterfront view sets a cool vibe. The music adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the great view of the harbor and sunset."

"The Happy Hour views are magnificent and a must-see."

"The view here is so cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers cocktails and small plates, but food specials are limited.

2

The rooftop bar provides stunning views, ideal for sunset dining.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

18
The Corner Drafthouse image 1

Urban corner bar with indoor and outdoor seating offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that gets loud during sports events. Plenty of TVs and comfortable bar design with hidden knee pads enhance the experience. The space suits after-work gatherings with open seating and patio heaters.

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 7 PM with $2 off all beers, house wines, and specialty cocktails. Open seating and a large bar create a good atmosphere, plus there are discounts on select snacks and sliders.

A cool atmosphere sets a relaxed tone here. The bar pairs that vibe with good food and a laid-back setting near Balboa Park.

People are saying

"They have an enormous range of beer to choose from."

"It's a cool bar with a relaxed atmosphere."

"The happy hour food here is great and the portions are large."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 PM with $2 off all beers and wines.

2

Bingo night happens every Tuesday at 7 PM with free entry.

3

Last call for food is at 8:30 PM; arrive before then to order.

19
Fernside image 1

Open patio seating complements a compact indoor space with a laid back and dog friendly vibe. Music ranges from 50s to 90s and hip-hop, creating a lively and sporty atmosphere. Batched cocktails and unique drink presentations add to the casual, fun energy.

Happy hour features a well-priced menu with a solid drink selection. It works well for starting an evening, especially with family, before heading out for food elsewhere.

A cool vibe fills the inside with a relaxed atmosphere. The staff is very cool and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

"I found the burgers to be delicious and fresh."

"I loved the batched cocktails and slushies during happy hour."

"It's a cool little bar with an amazing vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough at Fernside, so consider parking a few blocks away.

2

The happy hour menu is well-priced and offers a good selection.

3

Fernside is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

20
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern, chic steakhouse with a live DJ creating a lively, fun atmosphere. The space includes a rooftop bar and a stylish, energetic vibe suited for celebrations rather than quiet dinners. Cocktails and steaks receive high praise, enhancing the overall experience.

Happy hour offers outstanding pricing for a high-end restaurant with a reasonable menu just a few blocks away. Staff like Jordan and Justin provide great drink recommendations and help navigate the menu, while dishes like Popcorn Chicken stand out.

A nice bar sets the tone with a DJ playing upbeat tunes at just the right volume. The people and staff bring a cool vibe that feels friendly and welcoming.

People are saying

"I loved each dish I tried; the food was spectacular."

"The service during Happy Hour was so attentive and accommodating."

"Our server Jordyn was so cool and made our experience even better."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays from 2:30 to 6:30 pm with great deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging during holidays due to downtown location.

21
619 Spirits North Park image 1

Distillery with indoor and outdoor seating offers a relaxed atmosphere featuring a back patio with fireplace and alcoholic slushes. Space combines dive-ish feel with inviting decor and hosts live comedy and games. Crowd enjoys casual socializing with house-made spirits and unique cocktails.

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with draft cocktails at $6.19 and a wide variety of other cocktails under $16. Specials include Wednesday steak and fries alongside well-made drinks that are easy to enjoy.

Alcoholic slushes offer a perfect cool drink for hot days. The vibe feels fun, welcoming, and effortlessly cool with an eclectic group and a cool manager running the spot.

People are saying

"This place has a festive, cheerful atmosphere perfect for happy hour."

"The outdoor space has a great patio with games and a fireplace."

"The cocktails here are creative and well-crafted."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with great drink specials.

2

Comedy and trivia nights are held on select days.

3

The patio is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for dog owners.

22
Burgeon at The Arbor - Little Italy image 1

Brewpub offers a huge indoor seating area and patio with mostly bar-height tables and a top-notch bar top. Atmosphere blends beach-like vibes with loud music featuring 90s and early 2000s hits, creating a casual, chill beer garden feel. Regulars come for amazing craft beers and socializing, often catching sports on TV.

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm Monday to Thursday with a pub-style food selection. Tasters are available outside happy hour for a casual hangout.

Great beer pairs with a cool vibe that sets a relaxed mood. The atmosphere feels fresh and inviting.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"The vibe here is really cool."

"The Happy Hour has a good vibe with friendly service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm Monday to Thursday with discounted drinks.

2

Trivia Tuesday features fun quizzes at 7pm with prizes for winners.

3

Wing Wednesday offers special pricing on wings all day.

23
AKA San Diego image 1
Restaurant

Interior features Asian-inspired decor with stylish, romantic design and photo-friendly artwork. Atmosphere balances warm, welcoming vibes with lively music and dancing, creating a fun environment for groups. Cocktails and sushi stand out as notable highlights.

Happy hour features incredible deals on craft cocktails, wines, and appetizers, including sushi plates priced around $11. Service is quick and friendly, making it a solid spot for a pre-game gathering.

Super cool atmosphere with DJ music sets a laid back and well designed vibe. Servers add to the overall cool feel.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and delicious."

"You have to try Tommy's lychee martini; it's unforgettable."

"The service during Happy Hour was friendly and outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant turns into a nightclub on weekends after dinner.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

24
Sycamore Den image 1

Small bar with an old Western theme and a cozy cabin feel offers a laid-back yet energetic vibe enhanced by live music and a delightful patio. The atmosphere blends vintage decor with tasty cocktails and free popcorn, creating a unique and inviting space.

Happy hour offers well priced drinks and runs daily from 5 to 7. The cocktail selection is swaggy and the overall vibe is great for unwinding.

Chillin vibe sets the tone with cool decor throughout. The bartender adds to the atmosphere with a very cool presence.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make the whole experience fun."

"The patio out back is great and cozy."

"The vibes here are incredible and the decor is cool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 7pm with great prices on drinks.

2

Live music occurs every Thursday, with additional performances on weekends.

3

Trivia night is hosted every Wednesday at 8pm with no entry fee.

25
Public House 131 image 1

Large warehouse-style space with roll-up windows creates an open-air feel that shifts from calm to lively depending on the crowd. Several big screen TVs and a modern bar attract a local crowd, blending casual dining with sports bar energy. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio with heaters, supporting relaxed socializing.

Happy hour features great prices and runs before 6pm. A long list of beer on tap complements the specials.

The spot has a cool vibe that fits well for dates. Inside, the bar and restaurant both have a really cool look and feel.

People are saying

"The pub food here is delicious, especially the burgers."

"You have to try the IPA beer batter fried pickles during Happy Hour."

"The drinks here are amazing, especially the Guavarita."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available before 6pm with great prices.

2

Saturday nights feature live music, making it louder than usual.

3

Parking can be difficult during rush hour, but nearby stores have spots.

26
The Rabbit Hole image 1
Restaurant

Intimate restaurant with open indoor and outdoor seating and rabbit-themed decor creates a cozy setting. Live music and DJs energize the space, especially on weekends, while a fire pit on the patio adds warmth and charm. The atmosphere feels community-oriented and lively during peak hours.

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM with great deals on drinks and appetizers. The selection includes a variety of brews on tap and cocktails that are interesting and tasty.

Big space with a rabbit theme sets a laid-back vibe. The decor stands out as cool and draws a steady crowd any time.

People are saying

"The bar food here has creative twists on traditional dishes."

"Happy Hour has a chill, laid-back vibe with an open, spacious feel."

"It's a cool spot with a laid-back vibe."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served until 2 PM; no lunch is available until then.

2

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM.

3

The venue is dog friendly, allowing pets in certain areas.

27
Public House La Jolla image 1
American restaurant

Cozy converted building with indoor and outdoor seating including a heated shaded patio creates a homey vibe. Numerous sports screens and live music add casual energy. The atmosphere feels low-energy and relaxed, attracting those who enjoy a quiet spot for drinks and games.

Happy hour offers good value with several items on the menu and a daily special of 1/2 price sliders. The bar provides decent meals at prices that stand out in the area.

Shaded patio and flexible seating options make this spot stand out. Both indoor and outdoor areas add to its cool vibe.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"I loved the sliders and fries during happy hour."

"It's a cool spot with a chill patio and interior dining."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

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