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 [2]. 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 [3], Dolin Blanc [4], and Amer Picon [5] with maple bitters and an orange twist show off head bartender Justin Lavenue [6]’s magic touch.

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