When it comes to happy hour menus, many restaurant’s cheap eats are a tease (or, at the least, heavy handed bar snacks), but not so at the the Bitter Bar. Big, rich flavors and satisfying portions exemplify the Boulder spot's booze-friendly cuisine.

From 5 to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, order the smoky honey-braised ribs (happy hour price is $5, as opposed to the usual $10). A meaty three-bone rack arrives packed with flavor: a wisp of fire, a hint of sweetness from the maple honey mustard glaze, and juicy heft from the fork-tender pork. Served with a side of pickled shishito coleslaw brightened with fennel and Granny Smith apples, the dish could stand in for dinner.

Sip This: The Barrel Master, a relative newcomer to the Bitter Bar's cocktail menu, plays well off the ribs. This careful mix of Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Dolin Blanc, and Amer Picon with maple bitters and an orange twist show off head bartender Justin Lavenue’s magic touch.

835 Walnut St., Boulder, 303-442-3050