There’s nothing like a great happy hour to take the edge off a tough day or to jump-start an evening out. But sometimes super-short timeframes, weak drinks, or less-than-satisfying bar snacks, take the “happy” right out of the equation. Not so at Brasserie Ten Ten, where from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily, those in the know make the most of their pre-dinner bucks.

Here, you can forget about chicken wings and tater tots. Brasserie Ten Ten’s bistro fare shines with specials such as the moelle osseuse (pictured) with slow-roasted bones lined with warm marrow sprinkled with fleur de sel. Nicely charred bread, port-poached shallots, chopped parsley, and tangy house-made mustard round out the $6 starter. The $5 merguez slider sandwiches lamb sausage, pickled mustard aïoli, and arugula on a soft brioche bun. Another favorite is the small but mighty Niçoise salad ($6.95) with olive oil–poached tuna, warm golden beets, fennel, haricot verts, hardboiled egg, tomato, onions, and Niçoise olives over greens tossed with a creamy tarragon vinaigrette.

If you’re sharing, order a selection of boutique cheeses and charcuterie ($6.75 each; $18.75 for three). Each platter comes with accouterments like duck rillettes, pickled vegetables, and brûléed peaches. Pair your eats with a tap beer ($3.25), featured wine ($4), or a $6 cocktail such as the value-driven Kir Royale with sparkling wine, Chambord, and a lemon twist, and enjoy the happiest of hours.

1011 Walnut St., Boulder, 303-998-1010