Happy hour isn’t just for cocktails—it’s a budget-friendly window of opportunity to score discounted drinks, appetizers, and meals at restaurants you already love. But if you’re only looking at the drink specials, you might be missing some of the best ways to stretch your dining dollars.

Here’s how to get the most out of happy hour with smart strategies and insider tips.

1. Know When and Where to Go

Happy hour times vary by location, so it pays to do a little research before heading out. Many restaurants and bars offer deals Monday through Friday between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., but others extend specials to late-night hours or even weekends.

Use platforms like:

• Yelp – Filter by “happy hour” and check for menus and reviews
  
• OpenTable – Some listings include happy hour menus or indicate promotional pricing
  

2. Don’t Skip the Food Menu

Many diners assume happy hour is all about drinks, but food specials are often where the best value lies. Look for:

• Half-priced appetizers
  
• $1–$3 small plates
  
• Two-for-one snacks
  
• Discounted burgers or tacos
  

Restaurants like Bar Louie, Chili’s, and BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse frequently include food deals during happy hour. You can even get cashback with a Chili’s gift card or earn rewards with a BJ’s gift card when you pay using apps like Fluz.

3. Ask for the Happy Hour Menu

Not every location hands it out by default—especially if you’re seated in a dining area instead of the bar. Ask your server for the happy hour menu, or look for it online before you arrive to plan your order and avoid surprises.

4. Pair Deals with Loyalty Programs

Restaurants with happy hour specials often offer loyalty perks as well. Combine these to save even more. Some examples:

• MyPanera: Free bakery items or drinks on top of promotions
  
• Buffalo Wild Wings Rewards: Points on every purchase, even during happy hour
  
• BJ’s Premier Rewards: Earn points that translate into discounts or free food
  

5. Skip the Alcohol (or Order Strategically)

If you’re not drinking—or want to save more—look for restaurants that offer mocktail or soft drink specials during happy hour. If you are drinking, order from the happy hour menu to avoid full-price cocktails, and choose local or draft options, which are often discounted.

6. Pay with a Gift Card for Instant Savings

You can get rewards with a Buffalo Wild Wings gift card or save money with a BJ’s gift card using a gift card purchased through Fluz. Buying a gift card at checkout (even for the exact bill amount) lets you stack savings on top of happy hour pricing and loyalty perks.

7. Split and Share

Going with friends? Order a variety of discounted small plates and appetizers to share. It’s often cheaper and more filling than ordering full meals—and lets you try more dishes for less.

Final Pour

Happy hour isn’t just a time slot—it’s an opportunity to enjoy great food and drinks at unbeatable prices. When paired with loyalty programs, gift card rewards, and some savvy ordering, you can turn happy hour into the best meal deal of the day.

Want to stretch your happy hour budget even further? Download Fluz and start earning cashback with every restaurant visit.