Thursday, November 13, 2008

Happy-Hour-by-Number

With all the dizzying digits bobbing around the turbulent sea of financial news these days, its easy to find a good reason to grab some drinks! And who knew that some of the best Happy Hours used numbers in their names? Do the math - you can assuredly count on these restaurants to deliver great food and good times!

23 Hoyt
Happy Hour: Tues - Thur 5:00pm - 7:00pm; Fri - Sat 5:00pm - 6:30
Food specials: $1–$5
Drinks: $5 red or white wine; $4 cocktails
Atmosphere: Sleek, trendy, wide-open loft

Location matters and 23 Hoyt takes advantage of the numbers game so you’ll always remember where to go—23rd and Hoyt. Sleek, stylish and soaring interior with lofted seating above the bar area. Happy Hour here hosts a delicious lineup of 15 or so menu items like pommes frites, fried red potatoes, bruschetta, oysters, shiitake tempura, soup, salad, and cheeseburgers.


50 Plates
Happy Hour: Mon - Fri 3:00 - 6:00pm
Food specials: $1.50–$4.50
Drinks: $4.00 beer; $5.00 red or white wine
Revolving $6.00 cocktail specials
Atmosphere: Contemporary spin on diner-style chic

Like the 50 states, 50 Plates showcases America in food and style. The bar side is simple, square and stark with nuetrals in formica bar tables, dark woods and tiled bar. Food remains diverse by rotating samplings of the 50 states with items like hotdogs, po’ boys, pulled pork sammies, spicy peanuts and popcorn, artichoke rolls, salad, fries, clams, shrimp or musssels. Free nightly tasters.


820/Mint
Happy Hour: Mon - Sat 4:00pm - 6:30pm; All night Wednesdays
Food specials: $2.50 - $6
Drink specials: $2.50 drafts, $3 well, $5 house cocktails
Atmosphere: Swanky cocktail lounge
Note: 820's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers FREE APPETIZER!
Located at 820 Russell and connected to the gorgeous and hip Mint Restaurant, this trendy, upscale ultra-lounge hosts a wonderful quiet and private back deck. Be sure to try at least one of owner Lucy Brennan’s infamous cocktail creations like the avocado daiquiri of the pineapple drop. The happy hour food is all about the delicious and giant servings of sweet potato fries, and other favorites include the Cuban lamb burger, calamari, soup, and spicy Caesar salad.


Bay 13
Happy Hour: Daily 4:00pm - 6:00pm and 10–close
Food specials: $3 - $8
Drink specials: $5 featured drinks selections
Atmosphere: Super-huge industrial-mod space

Bay 13’s name stems from their old dock position at the historic 1909 Crane Warehouse building in Portland’s Pearl District. The front-and center bar is very slick and cool; a bit of a see-and-be-seen place, but on the more mellow side at Happy Hour. Sample some delicious sushi roll options like veggie, ahi tuna, cucumber, BBQ eel or shrimp; or try the rice bowl, chowder, clams, mussels, or scallops gratin.


Five Spice
Happy Hour: Daily 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Food specials: $3 - $13
Drink specials: None
Atmosphere: Friendly, fine-dining on the lake

Rumor has it that wine is the 5th spice. And its definitely a 5-star view with beautiful Lake Oswego views from every window. Sit outside on the heated deck if possible! At Happy Hour, feast on fancy foods like oysters on the half-shell, mussels, fried spiced squid, prawns, trio of tartares, or hearts of palm salad.


H5O Bistro
Happy Hour: Mon–Sat 3:00–6:00pm and 10:00pm–close; All day Sunday
Food specials: $2 - $8
Drink specials: $2.00 bottled beer; $3.00 drafts;
$15.00 bottle house wine; $1.00 off wells
Atmosphere: Ultra-mod with knock-out design

H5O has a spectacular Happy Hour inside the new Hotel Fifty on Morrison. This new lounge has stellar ambiance! Saunter in and enjoy the delightful contrasts of geometric shapes in decor and plates. The mouth-watering menu changes seasonally offering unique and incredibly delicious gourmet nibbles like African peanut soup, beef or tuna tartar, greens, oysters, duck confit, and an amazing burger.


North 45
Happy Hour: Daily 4:00 - 6:00pm
Food specials: $2 - $6
Drinks: $3 pilsner; $4 wine; $4 well; $5 patio-rita
Atmosphere: Rich, homey and non-smoking world travel-themed pub
Note: North 45's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers a "ticket" for Happy Hour FOOD all night long!
North 45 is a travel-themed bar at the 45th parallel. The dark wood walls make the interior of this neighborhood spot very cozy, plus there's a huge patio beer garden in back. Happy Hour offerings include 1/2 off appetizers like quesadillas, calamari, sliders, fruit & cheese, hot wings, bruscetta, shrimp satay, pomme frites, and anti pasti.


Ten-01
Happy Hour: Mon – Sat 3:00 - 6:00pm
Food specials: $1 - $6
Drinks: $3.00 drafts; $5.00 selected house cocktails; $5.00 red, white & sparkling wines
Atmosphere: Tiny bar area within towering restaurant

Appropriately, Ten-01’s Happy Hour scores a perfect “10” for a perfect Happy Hour. Named for its address at 1001 NW Couch, you can enjoy the passing sidewalk scene through a wall of streetside windows. De-lish food includes oysters, organic butter lettuce salad, beef sliders, truffle fries, tots, spicy almonds, mixed olives, and a cheese plate.


Three Degrees
Happy Hour: Mon - Sat 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Food specials: $3
Drinks: $3 draft beers, select wines
Atmosphere: Quintessential Northwest-style interior
Note: Three Degree's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers 15% off your dinner tab!
Three is the magic number here: 3 o'clock start time, $3 food specials and $3 drink deals, too. Happy Hour highlight selections from their appetizer menu, which includes mixed greens salad, cheese and charcuterie plates, flatbreads, fries, hummus and cheese burgers. This spot is romantic, upscale perfection, complete with stunning river views and a cozy fireplace.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

A River Runs Through It

Some of the coolest places to go for the hottest nights in Portland are along the edges of our majestic rivers. Enjoy sweeping river views, drink in the sunset, save money, and sip a bit of fine wine or throw in a margarita or two too. These popular riverside restaurants can be enjoyed at a discount when you hit Happy Hour, and are located along (or near) nice walking paths for an enjoyable evening stroll afterwards, so get out and take advantage!

Located near the Riverplace Marina:

Cypress
Happy Hour: Daily 3–6pm Daily
Food specials: $2 - $4
Drinks: $3 beer and well drinks, $4 red and white wine, $3 martinis and specialty cocktails galore
Atmosphere: Casual Mediterranean

Not quite a river view per se, but a location worth seeking out right near Riverplace with outdoor seating available at Happy Hour with extra happy service to boot. Most delicious and plentiful menu items include meza plates of hummus, baba ganoush, tabouli, tzatziki, and falafal; salads, soup, yummy gyros and chicken dishes (pita, rice bowl and coco curry).


Marina Fish House (formerly Newport Bay)
Happy Hour: Daily 3 - 6pm and 9 - close
Food specials: $2.95 - $4.95
Drinks: No drink discounts
Atmosphere: Casual seaside nautical

Follow the signs over, down, and out as this one is located right out on the river amidst the yachts, docks and ducks in the marina. Head upstairs to the top outside deck for a view from above and partake in Happy Hour items like seafood cakes, fish & chips, salad, clam chowder, quesadilla, and onion rings.


McCormick & Schmick’s Pilsner Room
Happy Hour: Daily 3–6pm; 9-close Sun-Thurs; 10-close Fri-Sat
Food specials: $1.95-$4.95
Drinks: No drink discounts
Atmosphere: Harborside upscale classic

Situated for a perfect view of the Willamette River, sit back in the Pilsner Room’s Country Club-ish bar area serving 25+ taps of NW microbrews. At Happy Hour you can enjoy an array of super cheap nibbles including ribs, ahi tuna, tempura rolls, salad, hummus, and of course, their famously phenomenal deal of a cheeseburger with fries for only $1.95. But to get these bargains, keep in mind you’ll have to eat inside.



Thirst Wine Bar & Bistro
Happy Hour: Tues - Fri 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Food specials: $2- $6
Drinks: $5 select wines, $2 tastings, $2.50 beer
Atmosphere: Upscale, riverside, mellow wine bar
Note: Thirst Wine Bar's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers a FREE DESSERT!
Thirst’s outdoor sidewalk bistro is perfectly positioned to maximize river and harbor views with plenty of relaxing and sunny outdoor seating. They’ve recently introduced a new Happy Hour menu, kicking things up a notch to include perfect wine go-withs like artisanal cheese with bread, meat and cheese plates, olives, crab dip, and gnocchi. You can also sample $2 wine tastings at the bar at Happy Hour.



Three Degrees
Happy Hour: Mon - Sat 3:00pm - 6:00pm
Food specials: $3
Drinks: $3 draft beers, select wines, well & specialty cocktails
Atmosphere: Upscale, riverside, Northwest-style interior
Note: Three Degree's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers 15% off you dinner tab!
Three is the magic number here: 3 o'clock start time, $3 food specials, and $3 drink deals, too. They’ve improved their Happy Hour recently to highlight selections from their appetizer menu which includes mixed greens salad, cheese and charcuterie plates, flatbreads, fries, hummus and cheese burgers. This spot is romantic, upscale perfection, complete with stunning river views and a cozy fireplace. In the summer on Friday nights, you can catch occasional free live jazz shows on the outdoor side deck.



Located up North on the Columbia River:

Salty's
Happy Hour: Mon - Fri 3:00pm - 6:00pm & Sun 4:30pm - Close
Food specials: $1.50 - $6
Drinks: $3.75 micros, $4 well, $4.25 margaritas and Bloody Marys, $5 wine
Atmosphere: Upscale Nautical spot right on the river
Note: Salty's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers a FREE ENTREE!
Sunday night is particularly perfect night to enjoy Salty’s all-night Happy Hour on their big outdoor deck. Or keep it cool inside and watch the sunset over the Columbia through floor-to-ceiling windows. On Fridays, stick around a bit later for the Mel Brown Jazz Trio. Order the blackened salmon Caesar salad, coconut prawns, or fish & chips. They are also rumored to have one of the best cheeseburgers and best clam chowder in town.


Who Song & Larry’s
Happy Hour: Mon - Fri 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Food specials: $2.50 - $5 (half-off appetizers); Taco Tuesdays 99 cents until 10:00pm
Drinks: $3.50 beer and wine, $4.50 margaritas, $3 wells
Atmosphere: Mexican Fiesta

For a change of pace and Spanish flair, head across the river to the ‘Couve. If Who Song’s bustling bar area, stucco walls, and doorway arches scream mexican a bit too loudly for your tastes, head out to their outdoor, umbrella-ed deck for a more mellow scene with peaceful views of the Columbia River. There’s a huge array of food to enjoy at half-price including flautas, taquitos, wings, quesadillas, nachos, soups and tacos.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Celebrate Beer Month!

Portland Tribune Article Reprint
Blissed-out Beervana Happy Hours


Better Beer and Bargain Prices

Whether you are a fortunate resident or just visiting, it is a blessed experience to savor the bounty of ambrosial brews of Oregon. The heavenly hops served up at Happy Hour prices will put an even bigger smile on your face by leaving more cash in your wallet, so head out just a touch earlier to get good deals on both your sips and nibbles.
Brewpubs listed below are located in Portland unless otherwise noted. Be sure to try a beer sampler flight when available!

MICROBREW PUBS

Bridgeport Brewpub
1313 NW Marshall
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4–6pm
Beer special: $2.75 pints
Food special: $2-6 menu items

Located in the trendy, industrial Pearl neighborhood, Bridgeport is one of Portland’s most popular brewpubs and “Oregon’s oldest craft brewery” founded by Dick Ponzi in 1984. Its huge, refurbished brick warehouse also houses a bakery/coffeeshop.
For more fun in Bridgetown, head east across the river to the BridgePort Ale House at 3632 SE Hawthorne (Mon-Fri 3-6pm; beer/3-5pm food).


Calapooia Brewing Co.
140 Hill ST. NE (Albany)
Happy Hour: None
Beer special: Occasional random specials
Food specials: No HH discounts; American/pub classics

Famous for their award-winning chili beer, Calapooia Brewing Co. offers a strong line-up of specialty craft brews and an interesting array of accompanying burger options. Check out live local music Thursday through Sunday most nights all summer.


Deschutes Brewery and Public House
210 NW 11th Avenue
Happy Hour: Haven’t started one yet
Beer special: None
Food specials: No HH discounts; high-end pub specialties served

Housed inside a renovated auto body shop, the new Deschute’s Brewery in Portland retains much of it’s Bend-style friendly charm, mixing Portland Brewery-blocks history with a touch of welcoming Scottish pub flair. A nice, more casual alternative in the upscale Pearl District.


Golden Valley Brewery & Pub
980 NE 4th Street (McMinnville)
Happy Hour: Sun-Fri 3–6pm
Beer special: $2.50 pints
Food specials: Sun-Fri 3–6pm: $4-7 menu items

A time-honored, warehouse pub in downtown McMinnville where tradition and old-school pride are reflected in their handcrafted beer and homemade cuisine. A perfect place to visit after touring the surrounding Wine Country.


Hopworks Urban Brewery
2944 SE Powell

Happy Hour: 3-6 Daily
Beer special: 75 cents off
Food specials: $1.75-$3.75 menu items

As their website proclaims, “HUB is Portland’s first Eco-Brewpub to offer all organic handcrafted beers, fresh local ingredients, and a sustainable building with a relaxed and casual atmosphere.” This new, cool and fresh space is bike, banquet, baby and beer-garden friendly.
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Laurelwood Breweries

Laurelwood Public House & Brewery
5115 NE Sandy Blvd
The Laurelwood Public House and Brewery is just up the street from the original location (now called Laurelwood Pizza Co.) and serves the same great beers and pub food and has a special kiddie play area. Happy Hour 3-6 Daily (Beer $2.95, Food $3.95)

Laurelwood NW Public House
2327 NW Kearney Street
A cozy restaurant in a big, old Victorian house with converted rooms that make it feel like home. Outdoor seating on two big porches, with the upstairs being a much-appreciated place for parents to bring their little ones. Happy Hour 3-6 Daily (Beer $2.95, Food $3.95)

Laurelwood Pizza Company
1728 NE 40th Ave
Laurelwood continues to expand the empire and switch things up a bit to include serving pizza with a crust made from Tree Hugger Porter contributions. Family-friendly and fresh alternative in the Hollywood ‘hood.
Happy Hour 3-6 Daily (Beer $2.95, Food $2.95-4.95)

Laurelwood at Portland International Airport
Full service restaurant and bar at Concourse A (Horizon) and Concourse E (United).
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Lompoc Breweries
Lompoc has brewing hand-crafted ales and lagers down to a science – and decks-out all four of their pubs with a similar magic touch.

Hedge House
3412 SE Division St.
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6pm; All day Sat & Sun
Beer special: $3.25 pints; $2.50 Tuesdays
Food specials: No HH discounts; Good pub grub

A quaint yellow Craftsman, complete with charming front porch, holds a secret: There’s a comfy and cozy bar inside! Make yourself at home and putter around a bit, then plop down and relax in one of several different seating areas inside or out. The owner brings us the beloved Spring Beer & Wine Fest every year.


Lompoc Fifth Quarter
901-B N Williams Ave.
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4-6pm; All day Sat & Sun
Beer special: $3.25 pints; $2.00 Tuesdays
Food specials: Mon-Fri 4–6pm; $2.00 off most appetizers

In North Portland, Lompoc 5Q is a welcome addition to the family, and like New Old Lompoc, brews beer on-site as well. Big, high-backed wooden tables in long rows throw out an immediate, somewhat collegiate, party vibe. $3 Bloody Mary Sundays. Smoke-free.


New Old Lompoc
1616 NW 23rd Ave.
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4-7pm; All day Sat & Sun
Beer special: $3.25 pints
Food specials: Mon-Fri 4–6pm: $2 off most appetizers

New Old Lompoc is a top favorite of many Portlanders, and it’s all about their beloved back patio. Inside, you can appreciate a casual and laid-back escape from the polish of “Trendy-Third”. Famous for $3 Bloody Mary Sundays and owned by Don Younger, owner of the legendary Horse Brass Pub.


Oaks Bottom Public House
1621 S.E. Bybee Blvd.
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4-6pm; All day Sat & Sun (no food)
Beer special: $3.25 pints
Food specials: Mon-Fri 4–6pm (Three $4.00 options)

A small and very popular neighborhood haunt with a European café appeal, all hunkered down just a bit below street level. Take a seat in one of the natural, light wood booths and order their “Totchos” – surprisingly delicious and crave-able nachos made with tatertots. Outside seating on back patio or front sidewalk.
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McMenamins
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 4-6pm (deals vary slightly with already inexpensive menu items and about 50 cents off beer).

It doesn’t get much better than a long visit to a McMenamins pub-plus. The festive charm inside and out is amazingly creative, consistent and unending. Brewed up by artisitic geniuses to provide a truly inspired drinking ambiance, you’ll want to return time and time again. Check out their website at www.mcmenamins.com for full listings. Be sure to try the “Rubinator” (Ruby Red beer mixed with Terminator stout).
Some highlights include:

Bagdad Theater
3702 SE Hawthorne
Old Hollywood glamour in Arabian Nights inspired movie theater and restaurant; outdoor sidewalk seating.

Chapel Pub
430 N. Killingsworth
Lots of small and cozy rooms make it a perfect drink retreat. Outdoor patio open in warmer months.

Edgefield Hotel
2126 SW Halsey (Troutdale)
On a 38-acre renovated “poor farm” with a par-3 golf course, movie theater, Ruby’s Spa, fine-dining and several unique pubs. This is another all-time favorite.

Kennedy School Hotel
5736 NE 33rd Avenue
Detention Bar, Honors Bar, movies, soaking pool, outdoor courtyard beer garden, party/meeting rooms, restaurant.
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Raccoon Lodge
7424 S.W. Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3–6pm
Beer special: $3.75 pints (Downstairs bar only)
Food specials: Big menu of $2.50 - $6.95 big bar food

A fun, casual attraction on the west side with a giant beer garden and indoor upscale “lodge” as a warmer alternative if need be (sorry, you can’t stay overnight here, it’s sadly not a hotel).


Roots Organic Brewing
1520 S.E. Seventh
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3–6pm; All day Tuesdays
Beer special: $3.50 pints
Food specials: No happy hour discounts; salads, pizza and sandwiches served

Oregon’s first all-organic brewery. Very casual hangout with environmentally-conscious, naturally-simple decor. Mellow out or lively up yourself with a cold one and enjoy their low-key roots, rock, reggae vibe.


Rogue Ales Brewers on the Bay
2320 OSU Drive (Newport)
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6pm (food only)
Beer special: $2.00 hoppy pints at weekday lunch only
Food specials: $3-6 pub grub

On the Oregon coast with stellar views of Yaquina Bay, Rogue whips up many a fine brew and prize-winning names and bottle labels, too. Daily tours at 3:00pm.
Rogue’s Portland outpost in the Pearl District (1339 NW Flanders) is a fun, casual place with several bawdy bar rooms befitting its name (HH Daily 3-5pm; $3-6 pub grub)


Widmer Gasthaus
929 N Russell St.
Happy Hour: Sun 11-5; Monday 4-10pm
Beer special: $3.00 pints
Food specials: Sun and Mon $5.00 Cheeseburgers

Bier Hall ambiance with a mod-German, art-deco look. The golden beer-colored walls, exposed brick and metal German beer signs give the place a cheerfully-warm feel. Take the free Widmer Brewery tour Fridays and Saturdays (advanced reservations are required).


PUBS

Belmont Station
4500 SE Stark
Happy Hour: Daily special lasts all day and night
Beer special: Rotating $3.00 beer-of-the-day
Food specials: No HH discounts; Quality café-style nibbles

Shopping has never been so much fun with over 1,000 beers to choose from! You can B.Y.O.B. to their adjacent café and enjoy a healthy sandwich or salad outside or in. Several taps to select from as well.


Concordia Ale House
3276 NE Killingsworth
Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-5pm
Beer special: Changing specials like $1.50 Old German beer
Food specials: HH classics $3.75

A visit to Concordia’s Great Wall of Taps is a feast for the eyes and a touch of paradise for the discriminating beer palette. Choose wisely after studying their exquisite beer lists (22 taps and over 150 bottles). Food served up friendly in a simple neighborhood pub. No smoking.


Green Dragon Ale House and Bistro
928 SE 9th
Happy Hour: 4-6 Mon-Fri
Beer special: No drink discounts
Food specials: $3.00 menu items

Nestled in the middle of the central eastside industrial district, Green Dragon’s open warehouse-style restaurant is a dreamy respite offering a utopian beer selection in 19 perfectly selected rotating taps of the best beer around. Food is deliciously fresh, tasty and varied and served atop blackboard tables inviting creative doodles.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Extra-Happy Special Nights

ALL-NIGHT MONDAY
Zaytoon
Happy Hour: Monday 5:00pm – Close / Daily 5:00 - 7:00pm & 11:00pm - Close
Food specials: $2 - $8
Drinks: $1 PBRs, $3 drafts, $4 wells
Atmosphere: Minimalist, high-art style on NE Alberta
Start your work week off right with Zaytoon's late-night Mondays. Simplify, sit, sip and simmer down without regard to beating the clock in these serene surroundings. Food selections from the Mediterranean-based Happy Hour menu include hummus, falafel, veggie or meatball wraps, olives and a meza platter.


ALL-NIGHT TUESDAY

Crush
Happy Hour: Tuesday 4:30pm - 12:00am / Wed - Fri 4:30 - 6:00pm, Sat & Sun 3:00 - 6:00pm
Food specials: $2.50 - $5.50
Drinks: $2 PBRs, $3.50 wells & select martinis, $4.50 wines
Atmosphere: Casual, funky Southeast neighborhood hangout
Cap off your Tuesday by kicking back 'til all hours in Crush's artsy lounge side and contemplate the remarkable bottle chandelier overhead. The truly comfortable and inviting chill spot is not surprisingly a big favorite of many. Sample the hummus, soup, baba ganoush, variety of breads, flat nachos, BBQ beef sandwich, mushroom skewers (vegan) or linguini.

Siam Society
Happy Hour: Tuesday 4:30pm - 12:00am / Mon - Sat 4:00pm - 6:00pm; Mon - Thurs 9:00pm - Close; Fri & Sat 10:00pm - Close
Food specials: $1.75 - $7.50
Drink specials: $2.50 drafts, $3.50 well, $4 house wine

Note: Siam Society's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers FREE APPETIZER!

Siam Society is a top happy hour in so many, many ways — and now they are even serving it up outside, tucked into their industrial-artsy patio hideaway. Thai food abounds in Portland, but this is some of the best — and at such great prices! Cabbage wraps, grilled prawns, satay, spring rolls, ginger & tom yum soups, pad thai…it goes on and on. They now have a fun, more casual bar added out back -- check out the Soi Cowboy Lounge!


ALL-NIGHT WEDNESDAY
820 (Mint)

Happy Hour: Wednesday 4:00pm - Close / Mon - Sat 4:00 - 6:30pm
Food specials: $3.50 - $8
Drinks: $2.75 beer, $3.50 wells & $5 select cocktails
Atmosphere: Hip, sleek cocktail lounge with sunken seating area
Note: 820's 2009 HHGB Coupon offers FREE APPETIZER!
The Happy Hour at 820 (next to Mint restaurant) is a popular hit every night of the week, but especially brilliant on Wednesday when you can be stay smiling all the way to closing time. Lucy Brennan is famous worldwide for her creative cocktail concoctions, so be sure to experiment. The lamb burger and sweet potato fries are legendary (and big enough to split), and calamari, soup or salads make a great first or second course.

ALL-NIGHT THURSDAY + FREE JAZZ
Heathman Restaurant

Happy Hour: Thursday 4:00pm - Close / Daily 4:00 - 6:00pm & 9:00pm - Close
Food specials: $1.50 - $4.75
Drinks: None
Atmosphere: Stately and grand hotel that takes you back in time
The beautifully appointed Heathman Hotel & Restaurant hosts renowned Happy Hours in the majestic Marble Bar and Tea Court rooms, and they go until close on Thursdays. Not only that, but they host free live jazz to make your Thursday date night even more special. Plus, they've recently revamped their Happy Hour menu to now offer 22 of chef Philip Boulot’s creations for lowered prices — it is officially off-the-charts exceptional!


JAZZ FRIDAYS
Someday Lounge

Happy Hour: Mon - Fri 4:00 - 8:00pm
Food specials: $2 - $6
Drinks: $3 wells, $1 off drafts, $2 off specialty drinks
Atmosphere: Eclectic art and performance space
Hit the Someday Lounge on Fridays after work — the fantabulous Dusty York Trio will get your weekend tuned up right (check out their complete listings of live music the rest of the week). Meanwhile, their rockstar Happy Hour serves up healthy portions of unique vegetarian fare like quesadillas, nachos and sandwiches.

FREE LIVE MUSIC
Alberta Street Pub

Happy Hour: Mon - Fri 5:00 - 7:45pm
Food specials: $3
Drinks: $1 PBRs, $3 micros, wines & wells
Atmosphere: Casual Irish-style pub with spacious music room
Enjoy live music for free most Mondays and Fridays from 6:30pm to 8:30pm (check their listings for details). You'll love this simple Irish-ish neighborhood pub and it's casual time-worn charm. Their Happy Hour menu offers some of the biggest and best deal-meals in Portland including Guiness stew, turkey and chicken sandwiches, nachos, BLTs and mixed greens salads.

*LONGEST HOURS AWARD*
Gold Dust Meridian
Happy Hour: Daily 2:00 - 8:00pm & All day Sunday (2:00pm - Close)
Food specials: $3 - $5
Drinks: $3 beer & wells, $4 wines
Atmosphere: Sophisticated, 60s-style lounge
A new entry that already blazes out of the gates with an award-winning Happy Hour lasting SIX full hours! The Gold Dust Meridian opened in January, steeped deep in authentic retro charm that is at once swanky and ultra-cool. The stellar Happy Hour menu follows period style and includes bar olives, deviled eggs, grilled cheese (served with soup and salad), crackers with dips and mac & cheese.

Wine Country Memorial Day Weekend 2008

It's Wine Country Weekend!
Memorial Day Weekend is one of the best weekends of the year to head down Yamhill County! Most vineyards will be throwing a party of sorts and bring extra crowds, and wine tastings, on their premises. It's also a great chance to visit a choice few who are open only two weekends of the year (the other being Thanksgiving weekend). If you don't feel up for the drive, go local and simply hit the wine bars (reference list on Page 176 of your Happy Hour book). Cheers!

Duck Pond Cellars
Duck Pond is one of the first places you'll hit heading south down Hwy 99. It's a pretty FUN place, with a sprawling front lawn, standard $10 wine tasting fee, and a favorite band, "Five Guys Named Moe", playing there Saturday from noon-4:00pm. And yours truly will be signing Happy Hour Guidebooks there both Saturday and Sunday - come by and say "HI"! Also, a friend of mine, Lea McWhorter, will have her beautiful line of "Sophisticated Beads" handmade jewelry both days. Duck Pond is open 10-5 Sat-Mon this weekend.
www.duckpondcellars.com

A Couple Suggestions

Andersons Anderson Vineyards
A favorite of mine (no relation, sadly) that is only open for the two big weekends of the year. Great wine and spectacular views in every direction will make for beautiful surroundings for a picnic. Should be a good place to escape the crowds.
www.dundeehills.org/anderson.htm

Carlton Cellars
The biggest bang for the buck! They'll have 10-12 winemakers offering winetastings. It's a touch higher "ticket" to get in, but it will go a long way once inside. Be sure to say "Hi!" to Stuart and Athena of BoDecker Wines and tell 'em Happy Hour Cindy sent you!
www.winemakersstudio.com

Hip Chicks Do Wine
Winery and Portland Tasting Room Open extended hours Memorial Day Weekend May 23 - 26th. Hours: Fri 6pm-9pm Sat/Sun 11am-9pm Mon 11am-6pm.
$15 Admission includes tasting of up to 15 wines, appetizers, live music and a logo glass.
Music schedule:
Friday, May 23rd - Carlyle performing 6:00 to 9:00 PM
Saturday, May 24th - Lisa Mann performing 1:30 to 4:30 PM; Beth Willis performing 5:00 to 8:00 PM
Sunday - RaChiChi performing 1:30 to 4:30 PM; Key of Dreams performing 5:00 to 8:00 PM
www.hipchicksdowine.com

Brand New! Winderlea Winery
Winderlea will make its wines available to the public through a new tasting room that will be built on the vineyard site on Worden Hill Road. The tasting room is planned to open over Memorial Day weekend 2008 (phone first). In addition Winderlea will make its wines available through a limited number of fine wine stores and restaurants as well as its website.
www.winderlea.com

Fiesta Style

Andina
Happy Hour: Mon - Sat 4:00 - 6:00pm
Food specials: $1 - $2
Drinks: $5 exotic cocktail specialties
Atmosphere: Upscale and warm South American flavor
Andina's Peruvian style interior is more high-style Lima than Machu Picchu, with high wooden-beamed ceilings, copper-topped tables, painted stucco walls and a huge, captivating fireplace. Choose from few, but interesting and delicious ethnic small plates like skewers of marinated chicken, beef heart or grilled octopus.

Cha Taqueria
Happy Hour: Daily 3:00 - 6:00pm & 9:00pm - Close
Food specials: $2 - $5
Drinks: $3 beer, $4 wine, $5 sangria or margaritas
Atmosphere: Modish, minimalist Mexican touches
From the same owners as the local Cha! Cha! Cha! chain, Nob Hill's restaurant version is more refined and elegant overall. It's a big open space with a cool, artsy white divider and rough, lofty touches. Now is the season to enjoy their outside patio. You may need some English translations for the wide array of authentic, gourmet Mexican specialties on the menu.

Casa del Matador
Happy Hour: Daily 4:00 - 6:00pm & 10:00pm - Close
Food specials: $4 - $5
Drinks: No discounts
Atmosphere: Ornate, old-world Mexican
A handsome and sexy interior worthy of the title "Matador" greets you at entrance with stunning, wrought iron artistry, gilded mirrors and rustic stucco walls. A huge, centrally located circular fireplace makes an especially inviting impression. Happy Hour offers an array of taco styles, nachos, quesadillas, salad and soup that perfectly complement a margarita or one of 75 varieties of tequila.


La Calaca Comelona

Happy Hour: Mon - Sat 8:00 - 11:00pm
Food specials: $1 - $6
Drinks: Bartender's choice discounts (varied)
Atmosphere: Festive, fun and unique Mexican city style
You'll feel like you are on a Mexican vacation at this Day-of-the Dead-inspired taverna named "The Hungry Skeleton." You'll be greeted by bright colorful walls and Mexican-style folk art at every glimpse and turn. Their menu offers truly authentic items like many varieties of tacos, grilled cactus, spicy potatoes or even grilled grasshoppers!

Oba!
Happy Hour: Daily 4:00 - 6:30pm & Mon Thurs 9:30pm - Close (food only)
Food specials: $4 - $6.50
Drinks: $3.75 margaritas, beer or wine
Atmosphere: Colorful and sleek Latin in the Pearl
Oba is a long-standing favorite of most Happy Hour afficionados. This popular and festive restaurant offers a dazzling and flavorful mix in both food and flair reflective of the Caribbean, Mexico, Cuba and even the American Southwest. Their menu at Happy Hour has discounts of their best appetizers including jerked fries, coconut prawns, ceviche, prime rib coyotas, salad and black bean hummus.

Pambiche
Happy Hour: Mon - Fri 2:00 - 6:00pm and Fri & Sat 10:00pm - Close
Food specials: $3 - $4
Drinks: $2.75 beer and wine, $4 sangria
Atmosphere: Charming streetside Cuban café
Pambiche captures the essence of Cuba and its colorful and lively sidewalk eateries. A languid afternoon visit here is the perfect anecdote for escaping winter's chill — or to torch up the heat on a hot summer day with one of their spicy tapas or empanadas. They also have some of the best desserts in all the world.


Trébol

Happy Hour: Daily 5:00 - 6:30pm & 9:00pm - Close
Food specials: $2 - $6
Drinks: $4 margaritas, sangria or wine
Atmosphere: Airy yet striking high-style Mexican
Yet another mucho delicious-o Hora de Feliz and a great annual Cinco de Mayo party to boot. Off the beaten path on North Albina, but worth seeking out, Trébol takes pride in using extra fresh, seasonal ingredients and their Happy Hour menu highlights homemade soups, enchiladas, flautas, quesadillas and tacos. Try all 70 tequilas and get a free t-shirt!