The Zona 78 happy hour starts a little earlier than most (3 p.m.), but by the look of the crowds at that time, it seems a few of you are sneaking out of the office a little before quitting time. The two Zona 78 locations offer half-price appetizers, which include a spicy twist on the old standby of calamari, and some pretty fab bruschetta. The squid eschews the usual breading and deep-frying in favor of a tangy tomato sauce rich with fennel and other good stuff. The bruschetta we prefer consists of creamy ricotta topped with roasted pears, candied walnuts and prosciutto. Wines by the glass are $5, as are well drinks. Beers are $2.50. There is also an ever-changing wine-by-the-bottle program where you can get some damn good bottles at half-price.
Runners up:
2. RA Sushi
2905 E. Skyline Drive
615-3970, www.rasushi.com
3. TIE
Applebee's
Various locations
Zinburger
1865 E. River Road, No. 101
