Happy Hour: 4 Incredible Places to Get Drinks After Work

Nestled inside one of the state’s swankiest hotels downtown, The Alexander, Plat 99 boasts ultra-modern, artistic design (it’s named after the 99 glass structures inside created by renowned artist Jorge Pardo) and unique cocktail creations. If you can dream it, the mixologists at Plat 99 will concoct it. And you won’t go hungry here either. Plat 99 offers up delicious small plates and shareables created with local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. The menu changes regularly but contains delectables like Mexican street corn fritters, artisanal charcuterie and cheese plates, and even a to-die-for, cold-brew flourless chocolate cake.

If you’re looking for a Cosmopolitan but cozy refuge with soft lighting and hardwood floors, The Libertine should be your next stop. Located on Mass Ave downtown, this establishment is known for its finely-crafted classic cocktails and high-end bar food from award-winning chef, Neal Brown. From the fried oysters to the corn husk tamales or Mexican brownie, the options are varied and delicious. The cocktails won’t disappoint either—they’re smooth and unique, with fun names to boot like the Cobbler’s Daughter, the Last Word, and Silver Gin Fizz.

Even Esquire magazine agrees the ball & biscuit is the place to be. Topping its Best Bars list, the ball & biscuit brings back the same guests again and again for its hospitality, inventive cocktails, and mouthwatering tapas menu with locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is eclectic—both vintage and modern—and also has that homey, neighborhood bar vibe. Sip on a classic old fashioned or try something new and unique like Drop the Beet, featuring tequila, vermouth, ginger, lime, and beet. No matter what you have here, chances are you’ll be back.

Last on our list, but not least, Bluebeard won’t disappoint. Located in a fun, historic neighborhood on the southeast edge of downtown, Bluebeard dishes up contemporary American delights and adult beverages of all kinds inside a renovated 1924 warehouse. The menu changes daily here depending on what’s fresh and in season. You might find oysters on the half shell one day, grilled octopus the next, followed by spiced and candied nuts, grilled ribeye, or even crispy pig ear. Drinks are as varied, from craft beer to PBR (yes, that) to wines from around the world and notable cocktails.