by Iris Franks of What We're Doing

For the financially challenged, put this happy hour on the "reserve for pay day" list.

Iris Franks

The patio at Dali Wine Bar & Cellar.

One Arts Plaza looks and feels swanky and expensive, but early week drink specials make it possible for you to test the waters at Dali Wine Bar and Cellar. The wine bar has a choice spot at this development, with outdoor seating facing the gateway to the Arts District.

Dali offers Monday and Tuesday night specials. On Mondays wines by the glass run half price from 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays might be a better value. That's when Dali offers a tasting of five select wines for $15.

This happy hour oozes "upscale," but it's not outside your reach and there are pluses. You get the benefit of a well-edited wine list and food served up by an award-winning chef.

Iris Franks

The artistic cheese plate at Dali.

Even the cheese plates look like works of art. We tried the bright, colorful Wine Country Platter. This painter's canvas contains select charcuterie staples, hard cheeses, and tapanades accented with crusty bread. Between the wine and this bountiful platter, you get a mini meal for two.

Service is also tops. Our server could answer every question we threw at him about the food and wine. His wine recommendations based on our profile requests were spot on, and he coolly served a busy patio solo.

For the financially challenged, put this happy hour on the "reserve for pay day" list. Try the wine specials, and take advantage of the affordable "small plates" menu so you don't miss the food.

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