I have very specific spots I like to go for happy hour. And, while I am not a stickler for rules, I do have a few requirements to meet in order to consider a spot a “go-to” for post-work drinks.
The rules are as follows:
- Must be laid back, relaxing atmosphere, because there isn’t anything I hate more than a stressful environment after work.
- Must have at least one food favorite of mine, as I don’t always get to have lunch with my work schedule.
- Must have great happy hour specials (because, I mean, that’s the point of happy hour, no?)!
Here are a couple of places I frequent – they may not be the fanciest, or most sophisticated, but I can guarantee they have some of the best happy hours around!
Bistro on Bridge
210 -212 Bridge Street, Phoenixville, bistroonbridge.com
Hibachi Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar
240 West Swedesford Road, Berwyn, hibachidining.com/berwyn
Love Sushi? Check this place out! If you don’t know about this gem, don’t feel bad. From the outside, it appears to be just a Hibachi–which isn’t everyone’s scene, but the locals here are lively and the deals can’t be beat!
With a happy hour that goes until 8 pm, 7 days a week, it’s hard to argue that it’s one of the best around. Draft beer runs $1.95 a pint, and there isn’t sushi on the happy hour menu over $4. This has to be one of my favorite places to unwind, mingle with locals and friends, and enjoy a glass of wine with a spicy tuna roll. The service is great and friendly, and located so centrally, it really is a place to try!
Berwyn Tavern
625 Lancaster Ave., Berwyn, theberwyntavern.com
Another local favorite, this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I really love this bar. From a pool table on the porch and upstairs, as well as great outdoor seating, this bar just has characters.
Specials are always running, and the food isn’t half bad. Specials vary from day to day, so check out their website for more details (this includes $2 PBR drafts on Fridays, complimentary order of wings with every pitcher on “Thirsty” Thursday, and more. Locals from the area hang out here, and although the crowd can be young at times, you can often find locals of all ages hanging out at this great bar! Great, simple bar food is offered, which sometimes, is just what you need.
Pepperocini Sotto
184 Bridge Street, Phoenixville, pepperoncinirestaurant.com/sotto
Relatively new to the Phoenixville area, this spot is fast becoming one of my favorite places to frequent. Listing their specials and happy hours on the board outside their Bridge Street location, you can scope out the menu before deciding to go down to the basement restaurant.
Not sure what to order? I like their house Chianti for $5, and their daily bruschetta specials are always original and delicious, which you can get for only $3 during happy hour. Try the Calamari or Mozzarella in Carozza, too – available for only five bucks! Plus, the Mozzarella in Carozza is amazing, especially if you are a fan of French toast and grilled cheese.
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
130 Bridge Street, Phoenixville, ironhillbrewery.com/phoenixville
A quick walk from my house, this is a great place for Happy Hour. With specials ranging from $3–4 dollar drinks in the bar area, it’s a great way to unwind and have a seasonal brew, or one of the house beers. It’s hard not to like at least one beer on the menu.
Although food isn’t listed on the happy hour list, you can always have a drink and take advantage of their “Two Pizzas and a Growler” on the way out, which is only $25–what a deal! Or, try something off of the menu, which is constantly changing and worth a nibble.
