Happier Hour at Spring House
Aside from our popular Happy Hour, offered Tuesday through Sunday from 4:30 to 6 PM, we also have Happier Hour, a late-night experience designed for guests who want to keep the evening going. Happier Hour takes place every Friday and Saturday from 10 to 11 PM and brings together cocktails, wines by the glass in a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere.
The Drinks
The centerpiece of Happier Hour is the cocktail menu. Each drink has its own character, balancing fresh ingredients with the kind of flair that keeps guests returning. A few standouts include:
Vacay Mode: A blend of Captain Morgan, orgeat, and lime juice that brings a tropical escape to the glass. Sweet notes mingle with a citrus finish, giving a sense of lightness that is easy to enjoy at any time.
A Jig of Old Fashioned: Made with Powers Irish Whiskey and Angostura bitters, this drink delivers depth, spice, and a touch of warmth. It is a nod to tradition with a smooth finish that lingers.
Spicy Margarita: Tres Agaves Blanco is paired with Hagave spiced nectar and lime juice for a bold take on a classic. The hint of heat makes it memorable without overpowering the balance of agave and citrus.
For those who prefer wine, Spring House offers selections by the glass. Glasses of wine are $9 during Happier Hour. Choices include:
Rosé from France at $9
Pinot Grigio from Italy at $9
Sauvignon Blanc from California at $9
Chardonnay from California at $9
Malbec from Argentina at $9
The Food
Every drink comes with a choice of one small bite, creating a pairing that feels thoughtful and satisfying without being heavy. The small plates bring a mix of Italian influence, comfort classics, and a touch of creativity. Options include:
Artichoke alla Giudia: Crispy fried artichoke finished with lemon and Parmigiano Reggiano.
Homemade Meatball: Prime beef in tomato sauce, served with toasted garlic bread.
Potato Croquette: A golden crisp exterior with white truffle for a touch of richness.
Beef Empanada: Flaky pastry with a savory filling, served with Dijon for balance.
These plates are designed to complement the drinks while also standing on their own. Whether you are in the mood for something light or hearty, the menu provides a match for any craving.
Why Happier Hour Works
The concept of Happy Hour is familiar, but Spring House brings it up a level. By pairing each drink with a small plate, the experience feels generous and balanced. Guests are not only sipping cocktails or wine, but also tasting dishes that carry the same attention to flavor. It encourages conversation, sharing, and a sense of rhythm to the evening.
Another reason Happier Hour stands out is the timing. The early slot during the week fits perfectly for after-work plans, while the later Friday and Saturday session is ideal for guests who want to extend their night without rushing. The schedule makes it accessible to a wide range of guests, from early diners to late-night visitors.
The Atmosphere
Of course, food and drinks are only part of the story. Spring House offers an atmosphere that feels modern yet welcoming. Whether seated at the bar with friends or enjoying a table with family, the environment makes Happier Hour feel like a natural extension of the day. The setting blends sophistication with comfort, making it as suitable for casual outings as it is for celebrating milestones.
How Happier Hour is Different from Happy Hour
Traditional Happy Hour usually means reduced prices on drinks and perhaps a snack menu on the side. At Spring House, Happier Hour takes the concept further. Rather than just lowering prices, the experience is structured around pairing each drink with a small bite. This creates a complete tasting moment that feels thoughtful and satisfying without being overwhelming.
Happier Hour is also designed to fit multiple lifestyles. The early session works for those looking to relax after work, while the late-night option on Fridays and Saturdays offers something lively without stretching into the full night. By offering both, Spring House adapts the experience for a wider range of guests, which makes Happier Hour feel more intentional than the typical formula.
Another difference is the setting. Spring House provides a balance of sophistication and comfort, which elevates the experience beyond grabbing a quick drink. Guests are encouraged to stay, share, and savor the pairing of food and cocktails, creating a rhythm that feels more refined than a standard bar promotion.
Pairing Suggestions
One of the enjoyable aspects of Happier Hour is experimenting with pairings. Guests can create their own combinations depending on taste. For example:
Pairing the Vacay Mode cocktail with the Artichoke alla Giudia emphasizes bright, citrusy flavors balanced by the crisp artichoke.
A Jig of Old Fashioned works beautifully alongside the Homemade Meatball, as the spice from the bitters complements the richness of tomato and beef.
The Spicy Margarita shines with the Beef Empanada, where the kick of the cocktail meets the savory pastry filling for a layered taste experience.
Guests who prefer wine can enjoy a crisp Pinot Grigio with the potato croquette or a full-bodied Malbec with the homemade meatball. These combinations transform Happier Hour into a mini tasting experience.
A Community Gathering Spot
Beyond the menu, Happier Hour reflects the spirit of Spring House as a community hub. It creates a moment in the day when people can slow down, share plates, and enjoy good company. The combination of value, quality, and atmosphere makes it a fixture in Bergen County nightlife.
For those who visit regularly, Happier Hour becomes more than a routine. It is a dependable part of the week where excellent drinks and food are paired with a setting that feels personal. Whether celebrating with friends, meeting colleagues, or stopping in solo, the experience remains consistent in its ability to satisfy.
Why Choose Spring House
In Bergen County, options for cocktails and small plates are plentiful, but Spring House makes Happier Hour distinctive. The menu is clear and generous, the drinks are thoughtfully designed, and the food brings real flavor to the table. More than that, the experience balances quality with comfort, making it approachable to anyone looking for a relaxed yet memorable outing.
From the thoughtful pairings to the balance of early and late-night sessions, Happier Hour feels designed to fit the rhythms of life. It is not about rushing through a drink before dinner. It is about enjoying a crafted cocktail or wine with a plate of food that feels as considered as the beverage in hand.
