After a holiday season of unabashed face-stuffing, a return to dietary normalcy is a welcomed break. But don't let the calorie purging cramp your happy hour habits (or alcohol intake). Go out guilt-free with the deals at these health-conscious restaurants.
Wise Acre Eatery
5401 Nicollet Av. S., Mpls. • 612-354-2577 • www.wiseacreeatery.com
Weak-willed happy hour fanatics easily tempted by discount nachos or ranch-drenched Buffalo wings might try wandering into Wise Acre. From 3-5 p.m. daily, take $1 off local taps and house wines while nibbling a roasted beet hummus plate or chicken and herb sandwich at this farm-to-table restaurant. Just try to ignore the custard- and hot fudge-topped brownie sundae.
Birdhouse
2516 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. • 612-377-2213 • www.birdhousempls.com
Stewart and Heidi Woodman landed on Hennepin Avenue last summer aiming to offer "healthy every day" options in the former Duplex space. With Birdhouse's better-for-you food, there's no need for carb-cutting by skimping on the booze, especially during happy hour. Enjoy $4 beer and wine, and assorted half-priced snacks from 3-6 p.m. daily and 10 p.m.-1 a.m. Wednesday and Saturday.
Tao Natural Foods
2200 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. • 612-377-4630 • www.taonaturalfoods.com
This longtime vegan-friendly hangout's menu features toxin-shirking items by the leaf-load. It might not sound like the sexiest fare, but after your Christmas cookie comedown your body could use some unfrosted nourishment. Stop in for $5.75-$6.25 select half plates and dollar-off beers, wines, smoothies and juice blends from 3-6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
