Fresno Famous

When I think "Happy Hour," I think "cheap." Because that's what I want: something to lure me in, offer a nice experience and be entirely affordable. Edible food is a must; good service is a plus. It's a lot to expect for "cheap."

With Valentine's Day coming and everyone's wallets in a pinch, I did a little sleuthing and found a few surprises: Some of the higher-end restaurant chains in town actually offer happy hour deals that are just as affordable as their lower-end brethren. (I'm looking at you, Applebee’s.)

Cases in point: Ruth's Chris Steakhouse; Flemming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar; and Daily Grill.

Ruth's Chris is located in River Park and until this afternoon, believed to be located firmly outside my price range. I was slapped with the delightful surprise that RC offers happy hour specials ranging from $3 to $6.

Seriously, how crazy awesome is that? Get an order of tempura onion rings or hand-cut french fries for only $3; a $4 Caesar salad; or go nuts and splurge on barbecue shrimp or seared Ahi Tuna for $6. While specials change daily, know that you can procure select wines and cocktails starting at $5 and beers starting at $4 (domestic) or $4.50 (imports).
Happy hours are from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Flemming's Steakhouse is located at Fashion Faire Mall, and has an easy to remember Happy Hour offer: Choose from 5 for $6 until 7. Cute right? Let me clarify: They offer 5 cocktails, 5 wines by the glass and 5 appetizers at $6 each, served at the bar until 7 PM. For beer lovers, they offer two Blue Moon Belgian White Ales $6.  Split the beer deal and some Jumbo shrimp, sweet chile calamari or a cheese and bacon prime burger with a friend, and you've laid out $12 for drinks and a great meal in a fine dining establishment. Suffice it to say, this is a total deal.
Happy hours are from 5:00 to 7 p.m.

I've long been a fan of Daily Grill's Wine Down Wednesdays, where we winers can get 50% off all wines by the bottle-- EVERYTHING in stock. It's also nice to note that their Happy Hour specials include an extensive list of cocktails for $6 each and a well-rounded food menu where nothing is over $4.95. Items include popcorn shrimp, calamari, chicken wings, sidekicks (think sliders) and their newest item, Bleu cheese fries.
Happy hours are Monday through Friday from 4:00 to close; all day, Saturdays and Sundays.

Happy dining!