The Beer Thirty Guide

It’s called “happy” hour for a reason.  A discounted cocktail and appetizer are a great way to brighten up any weeknight.  If you’re wondering where you should head this week, here is a rundown of some of the best weeknight happy hour options around town.

Monday

If you haven’t had a chance to visit Bistro Foufou, Monday night is an excellent night to do so.   This Classic French bistro in downtown Traverse City features ½ off all bottles of wine.  Their selection is comprised of wines from various regions of France, as well as some Michigan wines.  Paired with an appetizer, it’s a proven remedy for a “case of the Mondays.”

Monday night is also “$10.95 Pitcher & a Pie Night” at Kilkenney’s Irish Public House.  A pitcher of beer and a hand-tossed pizza for $10.95?  Kind of an outrageous deal.  Additionally, it’s Team Trivia Night from 7-9, followed by karaoke from 9-1.  So if you’re looking for a less than low-key Monday night, why not start the week off with pizza, a pitcher, and an embarrassing rendition of “Gangnam Style”?

Tuesday

Liven things up midweek at Red Ginger.  From 3-6:30, take advantage of $6 martinis, $2 off beer, and $1 or more off wine pours.  Even better,  food specials on appetizers/sushi include discounted edamame, spring rolls, shrimp tempura, spider, and spicy tuna rolls. It’s also your last chance to take advantage of their feature for Tuesdays in October – 20% off all bottles of wine.

Tuesday is also “Martini Night” at the Beacon Lounge.  Commonly known as the “Top of the Park,” the lounge is located on the 10^th floor of the Park Place Hotel.  Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Traverse City and a specialty cocktail for a very low price.  Martinis are $5 from 5-midnight.

Wednesday

Fire Fly Cafe and Lounge offers great specials all week long, but Wednesday “Ladies’ Day” tops the list for me.  Featuring 1/3 off the entire menu, $5 burgers (including a tasty veggie burger), $1.75 well drinks, $2 house wines, and $1 off all other beverages, you can’t really go wrong.  Sorry fellas.

And it must be mentioned, Wednesday night is $1 pint night at Dillinger’s and Bootlegger’s from 9-2.  Enough said?

Thursday

“Weekly Ethnic Eats” at Left Foot Charley is one of the most unique weeknight options in Traverse City.  Each Thursday from 5-7, Left Foot Charley features a single dish menu as part of a “world tour” of cuisine.  Some dishes featured include Cuban, Mexican, Cajun, Indian, and Lebanese.  Grab a plate with your choice of wine or cider for $15, or $12 without a beverage.

Friday

As the weekend approaches, the quantity/quality of happy hour options seems to decline.  I was pleasantly surprised to discover a fun and distinctive option on Friday at Cherry Republic.  Each Friday they host a “Happy Hour for All Ages” from 5-7, featuring live entertainment, special cherry drinks, appetizers, and kids activities.

Honorable mention –

I have to add that there are several places which offer great happy hour options, Monday–Friday.  To name a few –

Stop by the bar at Union Cantina from 3-6 to take advantage of $1 off top shelf liquor, $2.50 – $4.50 microbrews, or $4 sangria, mojitos, and margaritas.  They also feature discounted appetizers including $4 nachos and $4 guacamole dip.

If you’re looking for an after-work brew, Mackinaw Brewing Company offers 18 oz. drafts for $3 and 9 oz. drafts for $1 from 4-6.  The newly re-opened Right Brain Brewery hosts “Super Fantastic Happy Hour” (I dig the title) from 3-6 with $3.50 pints and $3.75 mug fills for members.

Cheers!