There’s nothing quite like a good happy hour, right? A chance to unwind after work, catch up with friends, and enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. And Long Beach? Long Beach has a scene. From dive bars to upscale lounges, there’s a spot for everyone to enjoy a pre-dinner (or all-night!) bargain.
But with so many options, how do you choose? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together a guide to the best happy hours Long Beach has to offer, from budget-friendly dives with cheap beer to swanky cocktail bars with gourmet bites. So, whether you’re a student looking for a deal or a professional looking to impress, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to explore the best of Long Beach’s happy hour scene!
Understanding the Long Beach Happy Hour Landscape
Long Beach has a thriving happy hour scene. Here’s what you can expect to find.
Types of Happy Hour Deals
- Drink Specials: Most places offer discounts on alcoholic drinks, such as well drinks, house wines, and draft beers. Some spots even have BOGO (buy one, get one) deals.
- Food Specials: Lots of restaurants offer reduced prices on appetizers, small plates, and certain meals during happy hour. You’ll find discounted tacos, tapas, and other shareable dishes. Some restaurants slash their appetizer prices in half during this time.
- Combination Deals: Some spots offer packages that include both food and drink specials. For instance, you might find a deal that gets you a discounted appetizer and a select beer for a set price.
Timing and Availability
Happy hours usually run from mid-afternoon to early evening, starting around 3:00 or 4:00 p.m. and ending around 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.
Some places have specials that are specific to certain days of the week, such as Taco Tuesday or Wing Wednesday promotions.
Availability can vary on the weekends, so check to see if your favorite establishment offers weekend options. You might even find some bars that have late-night or weekend happy hours.
Spotlight on Popular Long Beach Happy Hour Spots
Long Beach has happy hour gems sprinkled throughout the city. Here’s a look at some of the most popular:
Downtown Delights
Downtown Long Beach offers a sophisticated vibe for happy hour enthusiasts.
- Saint & Second: This spot is known for its upscale appetizers and drink discounts. You’ll find a rotating selection of discounted appetizers and drink specials during their happy hour.
- The Ordinarie: The Ordinarie features a selection of tasty small plates and creative cocktail specials during happy hour. It’s a great place to sample a few different things and enjoy a well-crafted drink.
- Cafe Sevilla: Transport yourself to Spain with Cafe Sevilla’s Spanish-inspired happy hour. Enjoy discounted beers, wines, and sangrias alongside tapas and tacos at reduced prices.
Belmont Shore Bites
Belmont Shore offers a more laid-back, beachy atmosphere for your happy hour adventures.
- BO-Beau Kitchen + Roof Tap: Head to the rooftop at BO-Beau for $10 well cocktails and house wines, along with a selection of $10 appetizers. The views are a great bonus!
- The Social List: This popular spot offers discounts on select starter menu items, along with beer, house wine, and “Boiler Makers” (a shot and a beer) at reduced prices.
Retro Row Revelry
If you’re looking for something a little more edgy and alternative, Retro Row has you covered.
- The Wicked Wolf Cocktail Lounge: This hip spot offers $2 off draft beer, $6 house wine, and $3 off their signature “Wolf Cocktails” during happy hour.
Other Notable Mentions
Here are a few more Long Beach happy hour spots that are worth checking out:
- Lola’s Mexican Cuisine: Lola’s offers a delicious happy hour menu featuring $10 appetizers, $4 beers, $7 Modelo/house wine, and cocktails ranging from $7-$9.
- Panxa Cocina: If you’re craving New Mexican cuisine, Panxa Cocina offers discounts on drinks and appetizers during happy hour, but only in the bar area.
Hidden Gems and Unique Happy Hour Experiences
Long Beach has plenty of well-known happy hour spots, but if you’re looking for something a little different, check out these hidden gems:
International Flavors
Craving something beyond the usual bar food? These spots offer global tastes at happy hour prices:
- Ammatoli: Transport yourself to the Middle East with delicious mezzes (small plates) and discounted entrees during happy hour. Think hummus, baba ghanoush, and flavorful salads – all perfect for sharing. Mezzes are just $7, and entrees are half off!
- Risü: If you’re in the mood for Asian flavors, Risü offers half-off appetizers and discounted premium cocktails. Nosh on sushi, edamame, and other tempting bites while sipping on expertly crafted drinks. Premium cocktails and select wines are $7, and well drinks are a steal at $5.
Themed Happy Hours
Looking for a specific vibe? These spots offer themed happy hours that cater to different tastes:
- Art du Vin: Wine lovers, rejoice! Art du Vin offers 20% off rotating wines on weekends, plus daily happy hour specials. Check their social media to see what’s on offer each day.
- The Bamboo Club: Escape to a tropical paradise at The Bamboo Club, known for its tiki cocktails and discounted drinks. Sip on fruity concoctions while enjoying the island-inspired atmosphere. Enjoy $5 beers and well drinks, or take $2 off their already amazing cocktails.
Late-Night and Weekend Options
Can’t make it to happy hour during the week? These spots offer great deals on weekends or late at night:
- El Barrio Cantina: With food ranging from $3 to $8, and draft and well drinks for $5-$6, El Barrio Cantina also offers a Passion Fruit Punch Sangria for $7 and half-off Margaritas and micheladas.
- Mezcalero: If you’re a fan of mezcal, Mezcalero is a must-visit. Their signature cocktails are available all day and night, and they also offer a tasty food menu. It’s the perfect spot for a late-night bite and a unique drink.
Tips for the Best Long Beach Happy Hour
Want to make the most of happy hour in Long Beach? Here’s what I recommend:
- Do your research. Check websites and social media for current deals and hours. Happy hour specials can change, so confirm the details before you go.
- Think about location and vibe. Long Beach has everything from loud bars to chill restaurants. Pick a place that fits your mood.
- Try new things. Happy hour is the perfect excuse to sample new foods and drinks. Lots of places offer unique and affordable options at happy hour prices.
- Time it right. Get there early to snag a good seat, especially if it’s a popular spot. Happy hour crowds can be intense.
- Read the fine print. Know what’s included in the happy hour deals. Some specials might only be available at the bar or on certain menu items.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail at a chic downtown bar, a casual bite with ocean views, or a lively atmosphere in a neighborhood pub, Long Beach’s happy hour scene has something for everyone. From upscale seafood to classic American fare, there’s a happy hour to satisfy every craving and fit every budget.
Happy hour is a fantastic way to explore the city’s diverse culinary landscape without spending a fortune. It’s an opportunity to try new restaurants, sample creative cocktails, and enjoy delicious appetizers at discounted prices.
We’ve highlighted some of our favorite happy hour spots in Long Beach, but with so many options to choose from, we encourage you to venture out and discover your own hidden gems. Explore different neighborhoods, try different cuisines, and find the happy hour that perfectly suits your taste and style.
Most importantly, as you enjoy Long Beach’s vibrant happy hour scene, please remember to drink responsibly. Cheers to good times and great deals!