“What kind of question is that? Who doesn’t like happy hour?” So answered my friend Tony when I asked a simple question.
He’s not wrong.
Its name tells us right up front, you’re going to be happy. And what’s not to like — you get to drink during the day, relax and unwind after a long day's work.
And without further discussion, OutSFL is honored to present the five nominees for Best Happy Hour.
DrYnK Bar & Lounge
Pretty. Everything about DrYnK Bar & Lounge is pretty. The decor, the drinks, the staff, and the patrons. Looking around this sleek, upscale, stunning building you just feel pretty. (And yes men and males can be described as pretty and beautiful, words do not have gender.)
Joe, 59, St. Petersburg who was celebrating his birthday with longtime husband told us, “We come down once a month and DrYnk is always our first stop. It may look intimidating from the outside, but the atmosphere here is comfortable, cozy, and friendly.”
Enjoy half price on all well drinks at DrYnk during the happy hour times.
Hunter’s Nightclub
“CHEAP ASS DRINKS!” That seems to be the consensus at Hunter’s. Crowds flock to this venerable mainstay watering hole by the dozens to partake in $2 and $3.50 dollar cocktails. The heavily discounted drinks might get people in the door, but what keeps them at Hunter’s is much more.
Georgie's Alibi Monkey Bar
If you are at Georgie's Alibi Monkey Bar for Happy Hour, you’re most likely there for Charlie, one of the most popular bartenders on the drive. Customer after customer praised Charlie and cited him as one of the reasons they frequent Georgie’s.
“He just puts you in a good mood,” Casey, a regular, told us. “He’s friendly and attentive.”
But we all know it takes a village and in addition to Charlie you can enjoy buy one, get one free drinks specials under the covered patio.
Pub on the Drive
Much like the beloved show “Cheers,” Pub on the Drive is the bar where everyone knows your name.
Beth mentions Scotty, Shane, and Patrick as three of her favorite staff members. In addition to cheaper drinks — a new, revamped menu offers familiar favorites updated. Since this was our last stop on the Happy Hour tour, we had the chicken quesadilla and chicken parm sandwich — both outstanding.
The West End Lounge
It might feel like you are walking through the queer looking glass as you step into one of the newer bars to make the list. The West End Lounge has quickly become a local favorite.
They reiterated how “friendly the bartenders are. All the bars on the Drive are great with friendly bartenders. Here at West End, they really do make you feel welcome.”
To vote, visit outsfl.com/yca.
