Happy hour at T-Rex Barbeque, Berkeley

My favorite happy hour place in Berkeley is T-Rex Barbeque off Gilman and San Pablo Blvd. While dinner is mediocre and better barbeque can be held elsewhere, happy hour is fantastic. Every day from 3 to 6 p.m., get $4 beers, $2 PBRs $5 well cocktails, $2 off wine, $1 tacos, $1.25 oysters and other delicious finger foods.

The beer options are all craft brews, with my favorite being the Stone Pale Ale. My absolute favorite dish is the nachos with pulled pork and salsa ($6). Oven-warmed chips with tangy pulled pork go well with the refreshing coolness of the salsa. Also try the bar riblets with spicy cayenne BBQ sauce ($5). I could, and would, eat the two every day. The brisket Banh Mi sounded interesting, but didn't deliver considering I could get something twice as big and flavorful for half the price in Chinatown. Deviled eggs ($2) and the fries with chipotle ketchup ($3) are average.

Happy hour has also expanded to include whole meals. Get a 1/2 pint of PBR and a burger for $5, or to share try the full rack of baby back ribs and a pitcher of PBR for $25.

Unlike most places that have happy hour at the bar only, T-Rex opens up the whole space. Whether you sit at a table or one of the couches upstairs, the atmosphere is very chill, especially Monday through Wednesday when there aren't many people. If you sit at a table, you get waiter service, which I appreciate for happy hour. Happy hour is a must when in Berkeley.

T-Rex Barbeque
1300 10th St., Berkeley

Photo: Earl G.