The Place: Monty's Prime Steaks and Seafood, 5371 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91364 (818) 716-9736

The Hours: Monday – Friday 5-7 pm

The Deals: Free appetizers.

The Digs: When you walk into Monty's, you kind of expect to see an aging television star from the days of Dallas and Dynasty saddled up to the bar. This feeling is only reinforced by the dark wood paneling, the piano player in the corner wearing a bedazzled jean jacket (with shoulder pads) and the decidedly older clientele sipping some seriously strong martinis. Monty's has a clubby atmosphere with long leather banquettes, small cocktail tables and an oversized bar. It's an anachronism, in the best sense of the word. If you want to tuck away in a corner and disappear, you can. If you want to catch the game while you suck down a few beers, you can do that too.

The Verdict: There aren't any drink deals at Monty's during happy hour, but if it's any consolation the bartenders are not light handed with their pours. The real draw here is the food. Starting at 5 o'clock waiters in long white aprons, carrying large silver trays, hand out a huge variety of appetizers. This is not your wings and nachos kind of happy hour fare. From meatballs in a rich marinara sauce and margarita pizza with a thin crispy crust, to oversized shrimp scampi and soft tacos with spicy slow cooked beef, the appetizers are really a step above. So while you may spend the standard amount on drinks, for about $25 you can leave with a belly full of good food and a pretty sweet buzz.

Overall Rating: B

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