10 Places To Grab Drinks With Your Friends

Now that the holiday season is over, and most people have settled back into their old routine, it may seem like there isn’t much to look forward to but the arrival of spring and the promise of summer vacation.

To fill the weekends until then, Patch has compiled a list of the great places to spend your weekends (and weeknights!) while you’re waiting. These 10 local bars and restaurants offer cures for the winter blues, from free appetizers to laser tag.

Hops Fogelsville Hotel

If your wallet’s a little thin this week but you’re looking for a chance to catch up with friends, is where you’re going to get the best bang for your buck. During weekday happy hour, Tuesday through Friday from 4:30-6:30, all domestic drafts are only $1.50. Still not convinced? Wednesdays offer all-you-can eat wings, and Friday features a free snack buffet.

The Chicken Lounge

Known locally for its quirky name and revered for its low-key atmosphere, the has established a loyal following of patrons. The kitchen is located in the center of the octagonal-shaped bar, so customers have a front row seat to all the action. Thursdays are karaoke nights, so settle in and enjoy the entertainment with—what else—a plate of wings.

Pistachio Bar & Grille

Located in the Shops at Cedar Pointe, close to the South Whitehall border, Pistachio offers the kind of fine dining you might find in nearby cities like New York and DC without making you leave your zip code. Though the restaurant prides itself on being the perfect setting for business lunches, they offer an upscale drink menu that will keep you and your co-workers hanging out after hours, too. Stop by and enjoy their martini bar and wine lists until 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays and midnight on weekdays.

The Outback

Nearly every chain restaurant has developed a drink menu to supplement their soda fountain offerings, but few have as many options and flavors as . Though the chain doesn’t host a happy hour, its Aussie-themed drink offerings like The Wallaby Darned and Tropical Relief Martini are the perfect match for a Bloomin’ Onion or one of their Zagat-approved steaks.

The Buckeye Tavern

If you’re looking for a taste of what the rest of the country has to offer, head to Buckeye for one of their themed nights. Every Monday is PA Dutch Night, Wednesdays are Mexican Night and Uncle Buck’s BBQ takes center stage on Thursdays. With over 50 beers available, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be exposing your taste buds to all Buckeye has to offer.

Sam Adams Brew Pub

Most people might associate the bar with businessmen or tourists looking to unwind after a long day, but the Sam Adams Brew Pub is a community fixture. The bar offers four distinctive Sam Adams brews and six other beers on tap at any point, so even if you’re not a fan of the hometown hops, you’ll find something to love.

Rascal’s

Although it’s known for a family-friendly atmosphere, has plenty for the 21 and over crowd after dark. From theme nights like Texas Hold ‘Em Wednesdays and Wing Fling Tuesdays to laser tag and mini-bowling, it’s the ideal place to let loose after a long day. Rascal’s hosts live bands on Fridays and Saturdays, and offers drink specials every night. Lowest bowling score picks up the tab!

Grille 3501

Despite what Top Chef fans might think, delicious food doesn’t always have to be confusing or difficult to pronounce. , a local favorite since 2001, prides itself on a menu that it both sophisticated and customer-friendly. Sample their appetizers during happy hour, Tuesday through Friday, from 4:30-6:00. Can’t make it? No worries; the bar is open until 11 pm Monday-Saturday.

P.J. Whelihan’s

Maybe you’re getting tired of the same old routine; inviting your buddies over to watch the game on your flat screen with a couple of frozen pizzas isn’t cutting it anymore. Luckily, P.J.’s offers the perfect antidote. Their seven signature wing sauces, including Chipotle Lime and Shanghai Sesame, give you something to do during every seventh inning stretch and halftime performance. If you’re looking for spirits instead of spice, stop in on any weekday from 4-6 pm to enjoy $5 favorites like Captain Cider and Purple Rain.

Brew Works on the Green

Although it might not be your ideal spot for a late-night get-together, this location (one of three in the Lehigh Valley) provides a great venue for large groups. If you’re planning a large-scale event, or if you want to treat the whole department to lunch, it’s the best place to go. Brew Works offers traditional American fare, so picky eaters won’t feel left out.