Ah, happy hour. The time of day where we all gather after work to unwind and indulge in some much-needed libations. It’s the perfect way to forget about our bosses’ demands, deadlines, and everything else that made us want to pull our hair out during the day. Here are some tips for navigating the happiest hours of them all.
First things first: finding a spot with good deals is key. If you’re a frugal drinker like me, you’ll appreciate bars that offer discounts on drinks and food during happy hour. Some places even have specials on specific days of the week, so do your research before heading out.
Now let’s talk timing. Happy hour typically lasts for two or three hours (between 4 pm-7 pm), but some places may start earlier or later depending on their location or clientele. Be sure to check ahead if you’re planning on meeting up with friends at a specific bar.
Once you arrive at your chosen establishment, grab a seat at the bar if possible – it’s usually easier to strike up conversations with other patrons there than sitting alone at a table. And speaking of conversation starters, don’t be afraid to ask the bartender for his/her recommendation on what drink to order – they’ve probably seen it all and can give great advice based on what flavors you enjoy.
When it comes time to order food, remember that most happy hour menus have smaller portions (and smaller prices) than regular menu items. This can be great if you just want a snack or two while enjoying your drinks without breaking the bank.
Now let’s talk about etiquette when sharing drinks with others during happy hour: always offer to pay for your fair share unless someone insists otherwise – no one wants to feel like they’re being taken advantage of by moochers! Also, keep in mind that not everyone likes shots or strong cocktails – don’t pressure anyone into drinking something they don’t want just because it’s cheap.
One thing to keep in mind during happy hour is that the vibe can quickly turn from relaxed to rowdy. This is especially true if the bar offers games like darts, pool or shuffleboard – things can get competitive fast! If you’re not into the whole raucous scene, look for bars that offer live music or a quieter atmosphere.
Finally, don’t forget about safety when drinking during happy hour. It’s easy to lose track of time and overindulge when alcohol is flowing freely, but always remember to drink water and eat food between drinks (even if it’s just a few peanuts). And never drive drunk – call an Uber or Lyft instead.
All in all, happy hour can be a great way to bond with coworkers or catch up with friends after work. Just remember these tips for making the most out of your time at the bar: find good deals on drinks and food; arrive early enough to take advantage of those deals; sit at the bar for better social interaction; ask bartenders for advice on what drinks they recommend; share fairly when splitting bills; be mindful of others’ preferences regarding strong cocktails/shots (or anything else); avoid getting too competitive playing games if you’re not into that kind of atmosphere; stay safe by drinking water/eating food between rounds and never driving while under the influence.