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Best summertime Happy Hours on Tahoe’s South Shore

Laura Van Antwerp
Special to Lake Tahoe Action
Boathouse on the Pier offers deals on beer, wine, cocktails and specialty food as part ot its Happy Hour.
Courtesy / Laura Van Antwerp |

SUGGESTED Happy Hour Pairings

Boathouse on the Pier — Calamari and Mai Tai

Off the Hook Sushi — Dragonballs and Hot Sake

Happy Hour.

We all know and love it — that odd time of day that encourages you to imbibe and be merry at a discounted price that has been an integral part of American culture since the Prohibition era.

In the city, Happy Hour patiently awaits to melt the stress of a long day in a cubicle — a buoy tossed to overworked souls in an effort to rescue them from the quotidian nature of their lives.



In Tahoe, however, Happy Hour aims not to rescue, but rather, treat. Here, this glorious time of day is the cherry to top a great afternoon.

Stumbling off the trail after a solid day of hiking? Let’s cheers at Happy Hour!



Wrapping things up from a relaxing day at the beach? Vamanos a Happy Hour!

Oh, Happy Hour is over in 10 minutes? Where’s the next Happy Hour?!

So, then, where does one go to celebrate and be merry? Fear not. We’ve found the five best spots for you to check out.

BOATHOUSE ON THE PIER — THE VIEW

What better way to follow up an afternoon on the beach than with an icy Mai Tai and crispy calamari? Boathouse on the Pier is one of the few waterfront restaurants to offer Happy Hour in the summer. Perched on the longest pier in Tahoe, the restaurant features beautifully crafted food and drinks against the backdrop of a panoramic view of Big Blue herself. Paddleboard valet is not offered, though it should be. Seating on the pier, however, is available to both you and your pooch. Wear sunscreen and brace yourself for another incredible Tahoe sunset.

When: Daily

Where: Tahoe Beach Retreat & Lodge, 3411 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Highlights: Dollar off beers, $5 glasses of wine, discounted specialty cocktails, food specials.

More info: http://www.tahoebeachretreat.com

AZUL LATIN KITCHEN — THE BUZZING HOTSPOT

Azul could be considered the “cool kid” of South Lake’s dining scene. Located in the heart of Heavenly Village, you’ll find this bustling location brimming with eager bodies in search of a fresh-squeezed margarita. Granted, it’s always busy, but for good reason. Between the creative cocktails, the delicious, locally-sourced fare and warm service, you’ll be hard pressed to find yourself having anything short of a great time. The restaurant itself is equal parts hip and inviting. Look hard enough and you may spot your old, refurbished dresser behind the bar, proudly debuting its new life as a dimly lit shelf for bottles of tequila worth more than it retailed for at Pier 1 Imports.

When: Monday through Friday

Where: 1001 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe

Time: 2-6 p.m.

Highlights: $3 shots or beers, $6 margaritas, $2 PBRs, discounted tacos and more

More info: http://www.azullatinkitchen.com

OFF THE HOOK — THE ULTIMATE SUSHI HAPPY HOUR

“Sushi Happy Hour? Sounds gross. Let’s not.” Said no one, ever. Let’s be real here. When plans are up in the air, Happy Hour sushi is always the first suggestion. It’s as reliable as a Toyota Camry when it comes to satisfying both taste and excitement. Off the Hook offers an extensive Happy Hour menu, with enough food and drink options to indulge even the pickiest of eaters. Staff won’t judge you for ordering a second vat of sake, at least not in your presence. Sushi chefs are happy to chat as they craft your rolls. Arrive early, especially if you’re hoping for outdoor seating.

When: Monday through Friday

Where: Town & Country Shopping Center, 2660 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe

Time: 4:30-6 p.m.

Highlights: $4-$5 large sake, $5-$7 sushi rolls, $2 edemame

More info: http://www.facebook.com/offthehooksushi

BLUE ANGEL CAFE — THE ECLECTIC OASIS

Walking through the doors of Blue Angel Cafe feels like a warm embrace. Vintage accents, wood finish, and welcoming smiles infuse the eatery with an old ski-town intimacy that would make even John Muir turn in his grave with FOMO (fear of missing out). Nestle into the leather couch by the stone fireplace for a game of cards over wine. Or better yet, take a seat out front in the company of a refreshing margarita and Tahoe’s impeccable weather. The pulled pork sliders are mouth-watering — best paired with a margarita and a childlike wonder of the beauty that surrounds you.

When: Monday through Friday

Where: 1132 Ski Run Blvd., South Lake Tahoe

Time: 3-6 p.m.

Highlights: $1 off margaritas, $4 wine, $2.50 pulled pork sliders, $3 house salads

More info: http://www.blueangelcafe.com

The Brewery AT LAKE TAHOE — The Local BrewPub

If you’re in the mood to throw back some afternoon beers while taking in the game, look no further than Tahoe’s favorite pub. It’s the type of place that encourages you to drop in and marinate with a locally brewed craft beer, nibble on discounted appetizers, and get weird with old friends. Think you have chutzpah? Brave souls can opt for a pint of the Bad Ass Ale. At 9-percent alcohol content, you’ll no doubt loosen up enough to spill the beans on your wildest dreams. Or at least tell a few bad jokes.

When: Daily

Where: 3542 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe

Time: 3-5 p.m.

Highlights: $4 pints, wine, and wells. $5 quesadillas, $5 pizza chips

More info: http://www.brewerylaketahoe.com


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