Reed: Senor Taco's happy hour pleases the palate

Jeremy Arnold and Stephanie Callins enjoy happy hour at Senor Taco.

Jeremy Arnold and Stephanie Callins enjoy happy hour at Senor Taco.

Karen Tait and Wes Cheek check out the grub that makes Senor Taco a popular North Knoxville spot.

I've noticed somewhat of a change in my nightlife habits throughout the summer. Rather than spend late nights out drinking with friends and perusing the Knoxville bar scene, I've been making a more conscious effort to get out and enjoy the many happy hours and weekday specials offered around town.

In my search for the best happy hour around town, I've found that Mexican restaurants often double as a bar and usually have the best happy hour prices. The only downside is that the drinks in these specials often don't measure up. Margaritas usually wind up being smaller, weaker versions of the real thing.

Beer specials are most often the best deal, but at many of these restaurants your selection is limited to some sort of domestic beer and Dos Equis on draft.

This week I ventured out to a Knoxville staple, Senor Taco, in my quest for the best of all happy hours. We decided to check it out on a blistering Monday evening and to our surprise the parking lot was packed.

Luckily Senor Taco seems to be quite a bit larger than it looks from outside, and we were seated instantly. The restaurant has plenty of seating throughout the building and a full service bar in the back. Scattered around the large open room are a few TVs that probably get a lot more use during football season.

Monday's happy-hour deal was $5 two-for-one margaritas, which is a great way to start off your evening. One of things that I really like about Senor Taco is their salsa bar. Instead of being brought a single choice of salsa at the beginning of your meal, you can choose from a small variety of salsas ranging from sweet and flavorful to the mouth-numbing habanera sauce.

The salsas are all pretty delicious and worth a try, whether its on your chips or with your food.

Margaritas aside, Senor Taco offers several decent specials throughout the week. Mondays also offer $4.49 32-ounce Dos Equis in addition to their buy one-get one deal on margaritas. Other daily specials include deals on margaritas, domestic drafts & bottles, mixed-drinks, daiquiris and Dos Equis. There are specials for just about anyone.

There are also a ton of food specials throughout the week, including a $6.99 order of dinner fajitas. There are quite a few interesting choices on Senor Taco's menu. I decided to go with two fish tacos and a steak taco, while my friend ordered a combination of things you might find at any Mexican restaurant.

Between the great food, low prices and well-made margaritas, we left stuffed and thoroughly satisfied. If you are looking for a great evening happy-hour location, Senor Taco definitely passes the test.

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