Best Happy Hour Hotspots Restaurants in University Village

Mariscos La Costa focuses on Mexican seafood—think shrimp empanadas, whole fried fish, and aguachile—served in a lively Ashland Avenue dining room. It’s a go-to for groups who want micheladas, big shared platters, and coastal-style flavors without leaving West Town. Consistently strong reviews highlight generous portions and bold seasoning more than polished service.

Forbidden Root is a botanical-themed brewpub where house beers pair with chef-driven plates on a sidewalk patio and in a polished dining room. Guests treat it as a West Town standby for tasting through floral, herb-driven beers alongside burgers, share plates, and seasonal brunch.

Casa Tequila is a colorful Wicker Park cantina where margarita specials and birria tacos make the bar area feel like happy hour most nights. Guests lean on it for sit-down taco platters, combo plates, and bigger-group celebrations centered around tequila and shareable plates.