Happy Hour Sacramento: Best Deals On Drinks and Local Spots
Looking for good times, tasty food, and great drinks without spending too much? Then happy hour Sacramento is exactly what you need. This buzzing city offers a wide range of happy hour spots where you can enjoy discounted drinks, appetizers, and unique local flavors.
In this article, you’ll get all the essential info about happy hour in Sacramento—from top locations and timing to sample menus and hidden gems.
Also Read: Benihana Happy Hour: Enjoy Delicious Deals on Sushi and Drinks
What is Happy Hour Sacramento?
Sacramento Happy Hour is a special time of day when local bars and restaurants offer discounted drinks and food to attract customers, usually between 3 PM and 6 PM. Whether you’re in Midtown, Downtown, or East Sacramento, happy hour offers a fun, affordable way to explore the city’s vibrant food and drink scene.
Why Happy Hour Sacramento Is So Popular
Sacramento is a city that celebrates local food, fresh produce, and community life. Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials to attract people during off-peak times.
Locals love Sacramento happy hour for three big reasons. First, it saves money. Second, it’s social. And third, it lets people try new places without a big bill. Tourists enjoy it too. It’s the perfect way to experience Sacramento’s food culture on a budget.
When Does Happy Hour Happen?
Most happy hours happen in the early evening, usually between 3 PM and 6 PM. However, some places offer late-night happy hours after 10 PM, and others run specials all day on certain weekdays.
Here’s a general table showing common happy hour times in different Sacramento areas:
| Area | Typical Happy Hour | Late-Night Hours | Active Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midtown | 3 PM – 6 PM | 10 PM – 12 AM | Monday – Friday |
| Downtown | 3 PM – 6 PM | Limited | Monday – Friday |
| East Sac | 4 PM – 6 PM | Rare | Tuesday – Saturday |
| West Sacramento | 2 PM – 5 PM | Not available | Thursday – Sunday |
Locations of Sacramento
Here are some of the best places to enjoy Sacramento happy hour:
- Smic’s Bar – East Sacramento casual pub
- Kupros Craft House – Midtown
- Zócalo – Midtown (Mexican-themed)
- Iron Horse Tavern – Midtown
- Midtown Spirits – Midtown distillery bar
- The Snug – Midtown cocktail lounge
- LowBrau Bierhalle – Midtown beer hall
- Uncle Vito’s – Downtown pizzeria & bar
- Burgers and Brew – Family-friendly in East Sacramento
- Old Spaghetti Factory – East Sacramento dining
Sample Happy Hour Menu Items
Here’s what a typical happy hour menu in Sacramento might look like:
| Item | Regular Price | Happy Hour Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margarita | $12 | $7 |
| Craft Beer Pint | $8 | $5 |
| Chicken Tacos | $4 each | $2.50 each |
| Mini Burgers | $10 | $6 |
| Flatbread Pizza | $14 | $7 |
| Well Cocktails | $10 | $6 |
These deals give you a taste of local favorites without breaking the bank.
Fried Pickles
One of the most popular happy hour snacks in Sacramento is fried pickles. This crispy treat, often served with a side of tangy dipping sauce, has become a staple at many bars and pubs. The combination of crispy batter and the zesty pickle inside makes it a perfect bite with your drink during happy hour.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Fried Pickles |
| Description | Crispy, golden-brown pickles, often served with a dipping sauce |
| Common Sauce | Ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mustard |
| Served With | Typically served as an appetizer or snack during happy hour |
| Texture | Crispy on the outside, tangy and juicy on the inside |
| Popularity | A favorite in many Sacramento bars and restaurants during happy hour |
Tacos
Tacos are a crowd favorite during happy hour in Sacramento, especially when they’re offered at discounted prices. You can find a variety of options, from classic carne asada to vegetarian-friendly choices. The soft tortillas paired with fresh ingredients and bold flavors make them a must-try during happy hour.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Tacos |
| Description | Soft tortillas filled with a variety of fresh, flavorful ingredients |
| Common Fillings | Carne asada, chicken, carnitas, fish, vegetarian options |
| Toppings | Salsa, guacamole, cilantro, onions, cheese, and sour cream |
| Served With | Often served with a side of chips, rice, or beans |
| Popularity | A favorite at happy hour with many places offering them at discounted prices |
| Perfect Pairing | Pairs well with margaritas, beers, or non-alcoholic beverages |
Mini Burgers
Mini burgers, or sliders, are another popular choice in Sacramento’s happy hour scene. These bite-sized burgers come with juicy patties, melted cheese, and toppings like pickles or onions. They’re perfect for snacking with friends and pairing with a cold drink during happy hour.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Mini Burgers (Sliders) |
| Description | Bite-sized burgers with juicy patties, melted cheese, and toppings |
| Common Fillings | Beef patty, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions |
| Served With | Often served with fries, chips, or a side of dipping sauce |
| Popularity | A popular happy hour snack, perfect for sharing with friends |
| Perfect Pairing | Pairs well with cold beers, cocktails, or soft drinks |
Flatbread Pizza
Many Sacramento bars and restaurants serve flatbread pizza during happy hour, offering a lighter yet delicious alternative to traditional pizza. The crispy thin crust topped with a variety of toppings like pepperoni, cheese, or veggies makes it a popular choice for those looking for a tasty snack with their drinks.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Flatbread Pizza |
| Description | A thin, crispy crust topped with various ingredients |
| Common Toppings | Cheese, pepperoni, vegetables, mushrooms, pesto, or chicken |
| Served With | Often served as an appetizer, usually with a side of dipping sauce |
| Popularity | A light but satisfying alternative to traditional pizza during happy hour |
Weekend and Late-Night Happy Hour Spots
Most happy hours happen on weekdays. But some places extend the deals into the weekend and late at night.
- LowBrau in Midtown has all-day happy hour on Tuesdays and early deals every other weekday.
- Uncle Vito’s offers a second happy hour from 10 PM to 11 PM, with pizza and beer for just $7.
- Juju Kitchen & Cocktails provides happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM daily, perfect for weekend outings.
These spots are great for people with non-traditional schedules or night owls looking for fun after dark.
Family-Friendly Happy Hour Sacramento Options
You don’t need to drink to enjoy happy hour Sacramento, as many places offer great food deals, mocktails, and snacks for everyone to enjoy. Many restaurants offer food specials and non-alcoholic drinks too.
Even Temple Coffee Roasters sometimes runs half-off bakery items after 4 PM, creating a coffee-themed happy hour of sorts.
Also Read: Taco Cabana Happy Hour: A Tex-Mex Treat You Can’t Miss
Seasonal Specials and Limited-Time Deals
Happy hour offerings often change with the season. In summer, expect to see:
- Frozen margaritas
- Spritzers and fruity cocktails
- Light appetizers like ceviche or sliders
In the winter, the menu shifts to include:
- Warm cocktails like hot toddies
- Heavier food items like meatballs or chili fries
- Seasonal beers and dark ales
Always ask your server about seasonal specials, as they often aren’t listed on the standard menu.
How to Find the Best Happy Hour Deals
If you’re new to the city or just want to explore, you can use a few resources to stay updated:
| Resource | What It Offers |
|---|---|
| SACtoday | Local happy hour guides and food news |
| Yelp & Google Maps | User reviews and daily deals |
| Restaurant Websites | Menus and updated happy hour times |
| Story updates and limited-time specials |
These tools help you plan your visit and make sure you don’t miss the best Sacramento happy hour offers.
Tips for a Great Happy Hour
To make the most out of your happy hour trip:
- Arrive early: Many places fill up fast, especially on Fridays.
- Split dishes: Try more items by sharing with friends.
- Check the time: Some menus end right at the hour—plan ahead.
- Be polite: Tip well and treat staff kindly, even if you’re ordering discounts.
Happy hour is about fun, but also about being respectful of the staff and other guests.
Events and Happy Hour Festivals in Sacramento
Throughout the year, Sacramento hosts food festivals, beer weeks, and cocktail showcases. During these events, many restaurants offer extended happy hour menus.
Watch out for:
- Sacramento Beer Week in spring
- Midtown Cocktail Week in summer
- Downtown Dining Weeks in fall and winter
These events are perfect for discovering new spots and trying premium dishes at lower prices.
Reviews and Feedback
Here are notable review highlights from top Sacramento happy hour spots:
Kupros Craft House (Midtown)
- “Happy hour makes it $5 per pint, and they have a great beer roulette too…”
- This cozy, restored Victorian tavern hosts beer roulette and small plates.
- Reviewers praise its friendly service, relaxed vibe, and outdoor seating.
Iron Horse Tavern (Midtown)
- “We really enjoyed the happy hour – the 3 specialty cocktails we tried were great. Will return.”
- TripAdvisor review calls out “solid food and long list of beers on tap. Service is spot on.”
Also Read: Twin Peaks Happy Hour: Delicious Deals You Don’t Want to Miss
Final Thoughts
There’s no doubt about it—happy hour Sacramento is a win for your wallet and your taste buds. Whether you’re grabbing drinks with friends, going on a casual date, or exploring new places, the city offers something for everyone.
You’ll walk away with a full stomach, a lighter wallet, and probably a few new favorite places.
