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Top of the Hour is a new, recurring print column featuring D.C.’s most generous, fun, and filling happy hours.
Where: Taqueria Nacional, 1409 T St. NW; (202) 299-1122; taquerianacional.co
Hours: 4-7:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9-11 p.m. Saturday
Drink specials: $4 beers including Pacifico, Tecate, and Corona; $5 for wine; $6 for margaritas
Food specials: None.
Pros: The problem with happy hour is the unforgivingly narrow window of time you have to enjoy discounted drinks. Not so at Taqueria Nacional. With a 4 p.m. start time, this taco joint housed in an old post office encourages knocking off early. And if you’re running late, a 7:30 p.m. last call provides a generous cushion. Even better, the restaurant inexplicably extends the deal to Saturday evenings. The offerings and environs are perfect for our fickle fall weather that swings between boiling hot and appropriately crisp—you can enjoy a frozen margarita on its T Street NW patio, or sip a red wine next to the open kitchen.
Cons: After your second beer you might find yourself disappointed that Taqueria Nacional doesn’t offer discounted food. Still, with tacos starting at just under $3, it’s not hard to mix and match your way to a meal. In-the-know patrons turn to the tostada, topped with all the fixings and your choice of meat.