American TV shows like Cheers and How I Met Your Mother glorify the significance of a good dive--a familiar hangout where one can meet up with friends, get a few post-work drinks after a harrowing day, or maybe a spot where you can score the next great hookup. But other than the crowd, the interiors or the vibe of the place, you cannot underscore the importance of why you're there: it's all about the alcohol.
While most establishments offer the same standard bar list and a few cocktails exclusive to the bar, it's their Happy Hour deals which attract frugal barflies wanting a round or two of drinks before dinner.
The term "happy hour" originated from the United States in the 1920s, and was slang for a scheduled entertainment time for the sailors in the Navy. The term started being used as a marketing term following a published article about military life in the Saturday Evening Post in 1959. "Happy Hour" now pertains to a period of time when a bar offers discounts on drinks (and the occasional free grub) and has become an after-office social activity.
In Manila, some bars have their own "happy hour" promos, usually lasting a few hours before dinner. Check out our list of Top 10 spots with the best deals on cocktails or local beers for your next happy hour trip (we are excluding the Beer Bucket promos which are available in almost all of the bars in Metro Manila):
10. Attica Bar and Lounge
Address: G/F, A.Venue, Antel Lifestyle City, 7829 Makati Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No. 729-5121
The vibe: A chill and effortlessly chic crowd gathers at Attica, where themed nights draw in fans of cheap liquor and good music. Modern interiors and plush seats add glamour to the hotspot, with a smoking area located on the second floor.
The deal: Beer drinkers will have a field day with Attica's 5-hour happy hour promo on Wednesdays: shell out P299+ and you get unlimited draft beer from 6 to 11 p.m. Their signature pizzas like Quattro Queso (P250) and Salmon Gravlax (P260) are highly recommended.
9. Bubba Gump
Address: 2nd Level, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati City (757-5154)
The vibe: The lunchtime crowd at Greenbelt is mostly made of Makati yuppies who like feasting on tasty clam chowder and big-sized servings of shrimp dishes in a fun and relaxed setting.
The deal: From Mondays to Wednesdays 5-8 p.m., drink all the beer, margaritas, red or white wine you want at Bubba Gump: P299 for San Miguel beer and margaritas, while you only pay P499 for red and white wine. Pair your drinks with their Cajun Shrimp or Shrimper's Heaven, with servings of fried, chili and coconut shrimps with dipping sauces.
