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Photo by Mira Nguyen
Photo by Mira Nguyen
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5 Happy Hour Deals in Chicago You Can Enjoy on a Student Budget

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Northwestern chapter.

I love exploring restaurants and bars in downtown Chicago, but the prices can add up too quickly for a college student wallet to handle. Luckily, many places offer happy hour deals in Chicago, making the adventure more appealing. Whether it’s for drinks, food, or both, you should make your way into the city to take advantage of these deals. Here’s a list of five of the best happy hours in Chicago. 

1. Tallboy Taco 

Tallboy Taco has different specials Monday through Friday. Each day’s specials are listed on their website. This restaurant also offers salsa lessons on Wednesday nights and live Latin beats on Friday nights.

Location: Nacional 27, 325 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60654

2. Salero

Salero serves modern Spanish cuisine in a trendy atmosphere. Look out for half-priced drinks, including a selection of beers, cocktails, and white sangria specials.

Location: 621 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661

3. Barrelhouse Flat

Barrelhouse Flat is a classy spot to grab cocktails. Enjoy $8 drinks Sunday and Monday, 6 to 8 pm. My personal favorites are the Margarita and Moscow Mule

Location: 2624 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

4. Belly Q

At this hip Asian barbecue restaurant, $5 happy hour drinks are available 4:30 to 7 pm in the lounge. I’d recommend the shot of Japanese whiskey, but here’s the full menu.

Location: 1400 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607

5. The Boarding House

The Boarding House offers half-priced glasses of wine and $10 specialty pizzas, with a happy hour Monday-Friday, 4:30 to 6:30 pm. Plan your visit with their extensive drinks menu. 

Location: 720 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 6065

Time to get your wallet and yourself buzzed and happy. Be sure to use these deals to explore Chicago and enjoy a more affordable happy hour on that college budget.

Jamie Hwang

Northwestern '18