What’s the happiest time of day?
Easy: happy hour. A plethora of Uptown bars and restaurants take part in this wonderful late afternoon tradition where the drinks are half the price but full of flavor.
This idea of boozing before dinner has its roots in the era of Prohibition. When alcohol was banned in the U.S. in the early 20th century, daring rule breakers would host cocktail hours before dining at restaurants, which eventually earned the title of “happy hour.” While happy hour today is not so scandalous, the deals you can find throughout the city are definitely something to smile about. After a grueling day of classes and work, you deserve to kick back and relax with a frozen margarita in your hand. Here are some places around town that offer especially happy hours:
Superior Grill
This Mexican restaurant is a campus favorite. With just a quick ride down the St. Charles streetcar line, Superior Grill has happy hour daily from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Arguably the best margarita in New Orleans, you can enjoy two margaritas for the price of one, or a large for the price of a small. With some queso dip, tortilla chips and a large margarita for $6.75, you can’t go wrong.
Cure
If you’re looking for something swanky, Cure on Freret Street is just the “cure.” This romantic destination offers $5.50 classic cocktails every day from 5 to 7 p.m. For around $10, you and a date can sip martinis and soak in the ambiance. On Thursdays, head to Cure with a big group to receive 40 percent off a bottle of wine.
Santa Fe Tapas
Another Mexican spot that deserves recognition is Santa Fe Tapas. Also on the St. Charles street car line, this hidden gem has a happy hour that can’t be beat. Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m., you get two margaritas for just $6. So, as long as you’re willing to take the streetcar all the way down St. Charles Avenue, you’re in for some tasty deals.
Chiba
Wednesday night is the night for Chiba. Located on Oak Street, this sushi joint combines delicious food and drinks for a reasonable fee. Chiba’s happy hour- Funk and Roll- is held Monday through Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. During “Funk and Roll,” bottled beer is $3, wine $4 and add a sushi roll for just $3. Unwind after class with wine and a roll for under $10.
Monkey Hill
On the corner of Magazine Street and Webster Street is Monkey Hill, a fan favorite with a great happy hour and a comfy atmosphere. Monday through Friday from 3 to 8 p.m., sip $3.50 well drinks and receive $1 off beer, wine, martinis and cocktails. Monkey Hill offers funky drinks that range from a Banana’s Foster martini to Cucumber Melon cocktails. Have fun in a refined atmosphere while saving money.
Phillip’s
On Friday night, it’s time to head to Phillip’s Restaurant and Bar on the corner of Cherokee and Maple St. After a week of classes, Friday at 4 p.m. is the perfect time to celebrate the weekend. In this classy, upscale environment, Phillip’s offers signature martinis for just $4. Ring in the weekend right at this uptown lounge.
With the start of another semester and stress piling on one book at a time, you deserve a break. So when classes are done for the day, feel free to sip a martini at one of these hot happy hours to save your livelihood…and your wallet.
