Top 5 Craft Beer Happy Hours in Los Angeles

Erika Bolden

Happy Hour at City Tavern

Last week's State of the Union promoted a generally positive economic outlook. If your pocketbook is more cynical about times ahead, you may find yourself defeated by the meager options at your disposal for living well in an expensive city. If you define "living well" as indulging your craft beer habit, rest easy. That's where happy hour comes in.

Happy hour is a golden moment in a beer lover's life. Peak occupancy is hours away, bartenders are available for information and conversation, and if you're in the right place, the beer you adore is cheaper than at any other time. Not every beer bar offers happy hour, but there are a few places where you can get in before crowds and costs escalate and enjoy a moment of beer bliss. Turn the page.

5. Naja's Place
Hours: M-Th 2-6 p.m., F noon-6 p.m.
Beer special: $4 pints from a selected list, off the 88-tap menu.
Why we love it: The longest happy hour on our list. Naja's offers a huge selection of beer, from high-brow to low, coupled with low prices that will make the ocean sunset you're bound to enjoy even more beautiful.
Where: 154 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach; (310) 376-9951.

4. Library Alehouse
Hours: M-F 4-6 p.m.
Beer special: $4 pints; choose from 15-16 happy hour selections out of 26 tap lines
Why we love it: For this beer menu, the only constant is change. Enjoy rarities for less, but be aware of the swarming crowds that develop and discombobulated tourists who wonder if y'all just have an Amstel Light?
Where: 2911 Main St., Santa Monica; (310) 314-4855.

3. SmithHouse Tap and Grill
Hours: M-F 3-7 p.m.
Beer special: $3 domestic drafts, $4 imported drafts
Why we love it: If you've been to a Yardhouse, you'll know your way around this happy hour. A great place to take your friend who has been dragging his heels about craft beer -- he'll be comforted to see the Fat Tire and Blue Moon he's familiar with while you rattle on about the nose on your St. Bernardus abt 12.
Where: 10351 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles; (310) 432-4360.