STK Steakhouse is one of the standout upscale dining destinations at The Cosmopolitan on the Las Vegas Strip and part of a worldwide chain with locations across the US as well as in London, Milan, Ibiza, Doha, and Dubai. At the Las Vegas location, the ambiance is sophisticated and modern—ideal for a special dinner and an enticing Happy Hour experience.

Happy Hour here is a refreshing early starter, running from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM daily. Although the restaurant is open earlier in the day, Happy Hour begins at 2:30, so arriving early is essential, especially since the bar area is quite small, seating only about 15 people.

The Happy Hour menu is simple and fun—every cocktail or food item is priced at just $7, covering all specialty cocktails. Wine lovers can also enjoy a glass of Justin Cab or Whispering Angel Rosé for $10.

I sampled two signature cocktails. First, I tried the “Not Your Daddy’s Manhattan”—a well-balanced classic made with Woodford Reserve served over rocks. Next, I ventured into the Fade To Blackberry, a creative blend of Jack Daniels, mint, blackberries, and fresh lime. Both drinks showcased STK’s innovative approach to mixology.

On the food side, the menu is designed as a sampler selection to tease your palate for a full dinner later. I ordered the Salmon Slider and the Chilean Sea Bass sampler. Although the portions were modest (especially the Sea Bass), they perfectly reflected the restaurant’s quality and left me eager to return with my date for a full dinner experience.

Tipping during happy hour should be simple, but a few key tips can help ensure you tip fairly and accurately. The standard tip is 20% of the bill, though I often round up or down for an even dollar amount of the total—that’s just my Engineer’s precise nature at work. To easily calculate a 20% tip, move the decimal point one spot to the left on the total and double it. For example, a $50 total becomes $5.00 (after moving the decimal), then doubled to $10.00 for the tip.

Be wary of establishments that provide “suggested tip amounts” on your receipt. These are often incorrect—sometimes including sales tax (which shouldn’t be tipped on) or using faulty math. Always calculate the tip yourself to avoid overpaying.

Happy hour prices can make standard tipping seem too low for the service provided. At Echo & Rig, for instance, two cocktails and two hotdogs cost just $12. A 20% tip would only be $2.40, which didn’t feel fair considering the excellent service and space I occupied at the bar. Instead, I tipped $6—still a bargain for the overall experience.

In Las Vegas, always check the bill for added fees. Some venues, like Blue Martini, include a 20% gratuity (sometimes even on the taxed total) automatically, then present another receipt with space for an additional tip. This practice can be misleading, so make sure you’re not tipping twice unless you truly feel it’s deserved.

Ultimately, tipping is your choice, based on the service you received. While the standard is 20%, you can tip more or less depending on your experience. Good tipping practice ensures you reward great service while retaining control over how much you choose to leave—it’s your decision, not the establishments.

Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant is a bustling, popular gathering spot in the heart of Downtown Summerlin, and it’s easy to see why. Always busy, especially during peak hours, Pancho’s offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere that draws in locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has a small outdoor patio, but the real action is inside at the large bar area, which includes plenty of tables for seating. However, you’ll want to arrive early—this place fills up fast.

While there’s a fine dining area in the back, the bar area is where you’ll want to be for happy hour. The energy here is upbeat, with patrons enjoying good food, great drinks, and plenty of TV screens to watch sports. During my visit, I ordered the Spicy Jalapeño Margarita, and it was excellent. If you’re into spicy drinks, this one delivers a serious kick with just the right amount of heat. It’s the kind of margarita that leaves a lasting impression with its bold, fiery flavor.

For food, I tried the Botanas Especiales Combination Platter, which was a generous portion that could easily feed two people. At just $16, it felt like a steal for the amount and quality of food you get. The platter was filled with tasty appetizers, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Though not on the happy hour menu, I couldn’t resist trying their Don Julio shots, which were priced at just $7 each, another great deal for fans of quality tequila.

The chips and salsa were fresh, with the salsa offering a nice level of spiciness that complemented the margarita well. Pancho’s also has big-screen TVs scattered throughout the bar area, making it an ideal spot for catching a game while enjoying some drinks and snacks.

If you’re a tequila fan, Sunday nights at Pancho’s are a must-visit, as they offer 50% off any tequila from 3 PM until close. Pair that with Sunday Night Football, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fun evening out.

Overall, Pancho’s offers a lively, vibrant experience with a menu full of great deals, delicious food, and drinks that are sure to satisfy. Whether you’re coming in for happy hour or to watch the game, Pancho’s is a fantastic spot to gather with friends and enjoy the energy of Downtown Summerlin.

Dom DeMarco’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar boldly claims to have the best happy hour in Las Vegas—a statement they display prominently on their building and website. And while I take that as a challenge to find one better someday, they may not be wrong! Located on the west side of town, this local favorite is well worth the trip for any visitor in search of quality pizza, good wine, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Inspired by the legendary Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn and pizza aficionado Albert Scalleat, Dom DeMarco’s brings a slice of New York to Vegas. The place exudes a casual yet cozy vibe, with a tiny bar that seats only six. However, there are plenty of high-top tables and a spacious outdoor patio, giving it a laid-back neighborhood feel. While the bar itself may be small, the service is attentive and the atmosphere inviting.

The happy hour runs from 2 PM to 6 PM, with half-off pizzas from 2 PM to 4 PM, and half-off wines, well cocktails, and select wines by the bottle until 6 PM. The drink menu is a standout—offering premium choices you rarely see discounted. I had the Justin Cabernet, a wine of exceptional quality that’s a rare find on any happy hour list.

The $11 menu features delicious offerings, and of course, I couldn’t resist trying their most popular pizza: the DiFara Special. This 12-inch pie is a true masterpiece. The cheese was long and stringy, a sure sign of top-quality ingredients, while the pepperonis were fresh and flavorful, standing out with every bite.

My bar seat neighbor had the eggplant ricotta pictured here.

The attention to detail, such as wine glasses marked for 6-oz and 9-oz pours, ensures that guests feel they’re getting exactly what they’re paying for.

One of the charming aspects of Dom DeMarco’s is its New York roots. The restaurant is licensed under the legendary DeFara name and NYC’s Domenico DeMarco, bringing an authentic slice of the Big Apple to the Las Vegas dining scene. With accolades like “Best New Pizzeria” and “Best Casual Restaurant” from local foodie sites, it’s clear that this place has earned its reputation.

In summary, Dom DeMarco’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar lives up to its bold claim of being one of the best happy hour spots in town. Whether you’re there for the half-price wine or their signature NY-style pizza, you’re in for a treat. It’s a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, and I’ll certainly be back to enjoy more of their top-tier offerings.

If you’re looking for a charming spot to unwind after a day of shopping or work, Fine Company’s “Fine Time” Happy Hour is a delightful choice. Nestled at the north end of Downtown Summerlin mall, this quaint venue offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

Charming Atmosphere

Despite not having a traditional bar, Fine Company features a communal seating area with 12 seats, surrounded by wrap-around windows that let in plenty of natural light. The outdoor patio is a prime location, offering a great view of the mall’s hustle and bustle, making it an ideal spot for people-watching. The interior is thoughtfully designed with tables for two, four, and booths for six, creating a comfortable and inviting space for various group sizes.

Whimsical Bird Theme

The bird-themed happy hour, where items marked with a bird icon on the menu are available at special prices, adds a whimsical touch. During “Fine Time,” which runs from Monday to Friday, 2 pm to 5 pm, you can enjoy all bird-marked drinks for just $5 and half-priced food items. This creative theme adds an element of fun and discovery as you explore the menu.

Delicious Drinks and Food

I had the pleasure of trying the Summer Linen and Panda Bear cocktails. Both were delightful, but the Summer Linen stood out with its refreshing flavors, making it a steal at $5 compared to the regular $12 price. For food, I sampled the Tuna Sandwich, which was generously portioned with fresh ingredients and toasted bread, and the Mom’s Banana Bread, which was unexpectedly delicious and possibly the best I’ve ever had.

Energetic and Attentive Staff

The staff at Fine Company are young, energetic, and eager to please. Despite a brief mix-up where my Tuna Sandwich was delivered to another table, they quickly rectified the mistake, apologizing and offering complimentary Banana Bread along with my corrected order. Their prompt and courteous handling of the situation was commendable and showcased their commitment to excellent service. Mistakes happen in life, and it’s not the mistakes we make that identify who we are, it’s how we respond to our mistakes that makes us. The staff did an outstanding job rectifying the mistake, and I commended them for their commitment to excellence.

Comfortable Seating Options

The indoor seating includes tables for two, four, and booths for six, along with the 12-seat communal table. The outdoor area is equally inviting with plenty of tables for four. Whether you’re dining solo, with a partner, or in a group, there’s a perfect spot for you at Fine Company. The bill, presented in a cute wooden holder, was pleasantly surprising – two cocktails and a large Tuna Sandwich with a side salad came in under $20.

Final Thoughts

Fine Company is a fantastic spot for a date or a casual outing in Downtown Summerlin. With its charming ambiance, excellent value, and attentive service, “Fine Time” at Fine Company is a happy hour experience you won’t want to miss. Highly recommended for couples and groups looking to enjoy a delightful evening in a beautiful setting.

Fine Company’s “Fine Time” is a hidden gem in Downtown Summerlin, offering a unique and enjoyable happy hour experience that should not be missed.