Players’ Happy Hour

If you’re looking for an amazing fall happy hour, and Melt has a 2-hour wait (and it probably does) go to Players at 14523 Madison Ave in Lakewood. Players is kind of a fancy establishment, but their happy hour is priced for the near-broke. Martinis (including the pumpkin variety with a cinnamon sugar rim) are only $5, and beer and a decent wine selection are less than that. Here are a few menu highlights:

Portobello Mushroom Pirogues  — They’re only $4.50 and come with a sour cream, bacon-y topping — they’re homemade and wonderful.

The Butternut Squash pizzette ($5) is enough for 1-2 people and comes with bacon, sage, and (surprise) warm, mozzarella, and buttery pieces of squash. It’s like a Jack-o-Lantern dinner.

And, lastly, Goat Cheese Arancini a cheesy, panko-crusted ball of warmth.

If you do, by some twist of fate, get a seat at Melt, try the Turkey Bomb. It negates the need for Thanksgiving — it’s that good.