Cheap Eats in Boston

Happy Hour; Photo taken by Flickr user aresauburn
Everyone is looking to save a buck these days (or several bucks in my case), but why compromise your social life and sense of fun in order to do so? We can still plan a vacation and dine out with friends and family, we just have to be super savvy about how we do it. In that spirit, I’ve pinpointed a few of the hottest happy hour spots in Boston so that your appetite doesn’t feel the pinch of your purse strings! And if that’s not enough, I’ve also identified some nearby attractions, which are all included for free with the Go Boston Card.
Area: Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market, Boston
Top Spot: McCormick and Schmick’s – This popular eatery among tourists offers one of the best happy hour menus in the city. They have two happy hours – one from 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm and the other from 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm. With each plate costing less than $5 a pop, you can choose from such items as a chicken sandwich and fries, grilled shrimp, fish tacos, and more. Beware of the cocktail prices though. Beer and wine are relatively inexpensive for the area, but martinis can end up costing upwards of $12 each.
Nearby attractions: New England Aquarium, Museum of Science, and Boston Duck Tours
Area: Back Bay, Boston
Top Spot: Uno Chicago Bar and Grill, Copley Square – Okay, okay. I know it’s a chain, but give this one a shot. Not only is the bar located in a completely separate area from the restaurant (making you feel like you are in an actual downtown bar), but the happy hour menu is the best for bar food. We’re talking cheese sticks, quesadillas, mini sliders and more. And you can’t beat the $2.95 beer special! Happy hour runs from 4 pm - 7 pm and 10 pm- close everyday except Saturday.
Nearby attractions: Prudential Center Shopping, The Swan Boats, and Fenway Park
Area: Harvard Square, Cambridge
Top Spot: Grendel’s Den and Restaurant – This is a favorite among locals because of the laid back attitude. You come in, seat yourself, and call the place home. Plus, EVERYTHING on the menu is half-price from 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm every evening and from 9:00 pm - 11:30 pm Sunday – Thursday! Keep in mind that they can get very busy toward the end of the half price hours, so plan to arrive early.
Nearby attractions: The Peabody Museum of Archaeology and The Harvard Museum of Natural History
None of these suggestions working for you? The Boston Globe has a great guide to wallet-friendly food. Do you think that anything was missed?
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Planning a trip to Boston? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go Boston Card.