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The 7 Best Happy Hour Deals At Restaurant Chains

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

Everyone’s two favorite words (happy hour) just got cheaper at your favorite chain restaurants. From daily to weekly deals, all your favorites are giving you the most bang for your back. Don’t let your budget stop you from enjoying a night out with the girls. 

1. TGIFridays

TGIF has Happy Hour deals all day, which makes sense since it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere. They have beers from $3-$5, and $5 appetizers that include mozzarella sticks and wings (classic Happy Hour snacks). People love mozzarella sticks so much, that there is a love letter to fried foods that is hilarious and will convince you to make the trek to TGIF for Happy Hour. They also have drink specials every day of the week from mimosas on Sundays to martinis on Wednesdays.

2. Olive Garden

Feeling a fancy Happy Hour on a budget? Get a glass of wine for $5 and small plates also for $5 at Olive Garden. They also have beers for $4 and cocktails for only $5. So, run, don’t walk from 3-6 pm for these great deals. There are a surprising number of hacks to stay healthy while still enjoying your favorites at Olive Garden, so don’t worry about having to miss out on a Happy Hour.

3. P.F. Chang’s

Sushi and egg rolls for under $6 is my kind of happy hour. There are so many at-home restaurant recipes, that even without going to the restaurant, you can get a P.F. Chang’s quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

4. Cheesecake Factory

There will be no fighting at Cheesecake when you’re paying $5 for appetizers (yes, including fried mac and cheese) and cocktails. The menu is so big you seriously can’t go wrong with any appetizer you choose. 

5. Buffalo Wild Wings

Your game day just got a little bit better with BWW’s cheap wing prices. Their traditional wings are half off on Tuesdays and boneless are half off on Thursdays. Wings are always a fan favorite so grab some friends and stop by Buffalo Wild Wings on a Tuesday or Thursday.

6. Applebee’s

You can totally ball out on a budget at Applebee’s. Try one of their many half off apps, like quesadillas, spinach and artichoke dip, and chicken wonton tacos along with a $4 margarita or a $3.25 beer. The best part is that they have two happy hours: one from 3 pm to 6 pm and another from 9 pm to midnight. Late night munchies, anyone? But Applebee’s also some healthier options, so keep those in mind while ordering.

7. Benihana

Hibachi is a fan favorite for sure, but can be pricey. So try dining at Benihana between the hours of 4 pm and 7 pm to snag $6 specialty sushi rolls, $4 Nigiri, and $3 edamame. Or try a Punch Bowl (with a friend) for $15. And did I mention that specialty cocktails, beer, wine, and premium alcohol are all under $7? You can thank me later. You can also thank New York for creating Benihana at all.

Jen Cavazuti

Fairfield '20