Remember that scene from When Harry Met Sally when Meg Ryan fakes an earth-shattering orgasm in the middle of a diner, and the blue-hair at the next table announces she’d like to emulate Sally’s order? Who wouldn’t? Of course, when it comes to happy hour appetizers, the choices are often less than stimulating.
Luckily, several of Austin’s finer dining spots, both old and new, are bucking that conventional culinary wisdom by offering a delicious collection of happy-hour choices that, while they may not drive you to convulsions, offer a memorable and meaningful food experience to go with whatever you’re drinking. Enjoy!
Pulled Lamb Sandwich at M Two
This restaurant is quickly developing a reputation for innovation. With okra pickles and Dijon, the pulled lamb sandwich at M two is swimming in unexpected–and delightful–flavors. The 5:30 p.m. happy hour food specials at M two feature a host of specialty dishes, from squash blossoms to antelope kabob. Click on the “Happy Hour” tab on the M two website to access an especially good deal.
208 W. 4th St., 478-7222, m2atx.com
Pommes Frites with Pecorino Romano at Péché
Playful and welcoming with touches that are a little opulent and a little fussy, Péché is the kind of place that sweeps you in and compels you to leave your baggage at the door. At $7, a plate of crispy pommes frites tangos with salty Pecorino Romano and house-made ketchup, elevating the profile of everyday fries. Perfect for pairing with one of Péché’s mixology masterpieces.
208 W. 4th St., 495-9669, pecheaustin.com
American Tapas at 219 West
Cocktail corn dogs? Yee-haw and hell yes. Along with mini bacon cheeseburgers, spicy cheese tater tots, and chipotle mac and cheese, 219 West’s 1/2 and 1/2 price American tapas (half price plus 50 cents during the 5 p.m. happy hour) put a little bomb in your nom nom nom.
219 W. 4th St., 474-2194 | 219west.com
Cheese Plate at Apothecary Coffee House and Wine Bar
Oh, apothecary. You have everything we love to love. Coffee, wine, cheese and snacky treats. From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., we love to love your cheese plate, masterminded by the cheese geniuses at Antonelli’s Cheese shop, along with a big, sexy red and good conversation.
4800 Burnet Rd., 371-1600 apothecaryaustin.com
Oysters at Parkside
As days go, Wednesday isn’t nearly as sexy as Friday or Saturday. At least not until now. Parkside’s half-price bubbly and oysters move Wednesday to the front of the line. Two of the world’s most famous date foods combine to create a magical night of flute-clinking and shell-shucking. The rest is up to you.
301 E. 6th St., 474-9898 | parkside-austin.com
