Each week City of Ate will give you the lowdown on a local happy hour
in Quittin' Time, with the details and why you should or shouldn't take
up the featured bar or restaurant on its drink specials.
Where: Nodding Donkey, 2900 Thomas Ave., 214-922-8898
When: 2 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday
What: $2 wells and select drafts
Why or why not: A Fireman's #4 for $2 isn't a bad way to unwind after a workday, and judging by our experience and that of First Look-er José Ralat Maldonado, the food is more hit than miss. As the new "Texas Sports Saloon" from State & Allen Lounge owners Jonathan Calabrese and Anthony Winkler gets its feet under it, they'll likely iron out some of the kinks now that this past weekend's grand opening is behind them.
And while they're not covered under the happy hour, the make-your-own s'mores kits coupled with winter coffee drinks and hot toddies in a $9 "Pit Kit" sound like a great way to warm up during the season.
Our waitress during a recent lunch visit could replace the late Brittany Murphy as the voice actress for Luanne if King of the Hill is ever brought back for new episodes. Asked what kind of cheeses were available on burgers, she drawled, "Um, I think we have cheddar and peppercorn." The burger proved satisfying, though the bun was soggy and the fries came out lukewarm.
With 18 flatscreen TVs and a large 3D screen, the place definitely
caters to a sports-loving crowd. The patio offers fire pits,
beanbag toss and oversized Jenga along with a nice view of Uptown, if such a thing exists. Decor is over-the-top Texas, bordering
on cheesy, with tin beer promo signs everywhere and cowboy boots
sprouting ornamented artificial Christmas tree branches decorating the
large open-air bar. In fact, if stools are too Yankee-fied for you, there's even a saddle repurposed as a seat at the bar.
