The Happiest Hours in Phoenix

February 1, 2010

Ahh happy hour…the best time to unwind after a long day of work or in my case…a thirteen mile run. After my half marathon in Phoenix, I took two days off work to recover and explore the city with Sarah and her sister Heidi. Part of our recovery, aside from shopping, included hitting up various happy hours around the city. Here’s a few places we visited:

The Vig – Phoenix, AZ

Our first impression of The Vig was questionable after a bad experience with the valet and a slightly stuffy atmosphere inside. However, our experience took a turn for the best when the hostess seated us in the beautiful patio area. When we arrived at our table, our party of five quickly turned into a party of six thanks to the Vig’s live-in cat, Meow-Meow, who was napping on the bench at our table. The atmosphere outside was awesome…the patio, dimly lit by Christmas lights, featured cozy booths under warm heat lamps and a small patch of grass for bocce ball. We enjoyed some great happy hour deals including $4 margaritas on the rocks, sliders, and spicy pork nachos.

Saddle Ranch Chop House – Scottsdale, AZ

When I first spotted this restaurant, I knew it was bound to be a good time. The entire face of the restaurant is tactlessly (but wonderfully) decorated in a western theme with a life-size covered wagon and a cowboy on a horse bursting out of the brick wall. The interior was similarly decorated with horse shoes on the wall, wooden floors, branded furniture, and who could forget…the mechanical bull. We all love a good atmosphere but what we really came for was the Jalapeno Mac and Cheese that Heidi had been gushing about all day. I ordered the mac and cheese and I must say there is good reason to gush…the dish is amazing! Crunchy, cheesy, ooey goodness. Besides the great food, we enjoyed some colorful drinks, fittingly served in a liter carafe.

The Yardhouse – Glendale, AZ

The Yardhouse has become a tradition in my yearly trip to Phoenix for several reasons: delicious lettuce wraps, yummy martinis, and of course, 1/2 yards of beer with tons of choices on tap. I haven’t ventured too far off the appetizer menu because we’re always there for happy hour and they’re just that good!