Dining out wisely on a college budget

Are you tired of Top Ramen? Mac'n'cheese? Do you like beer or cocktails? I guess what I'm asking is, how does eating out cheaply at reputable restaurants sound? If you're saving your hardearned change to buy more Top Ramen to enjoy in the security of your own home, I can't stop you. If you'd prefer to dine out in Tacoma and treat yourself to atmospheres you typically can't afford, you're in luck because I've broken cheap dining down for you into three simple lists: Value (great prices in mediocre restaurants,) Limited (one happy hour in a decent restaurant) and Fancy Pantsy (dress up and take advantage because you wouldn't be able to afford it any other time.) If you're feeling daring and risqué, feel free to mix-and-match some of these. After all, you're saving money now that you're going to invest in your education, right? VALUE Chevy's (3:30-6:30p.m. M-F): Many $2.99 appetizers, flavorful $3.50 margaritas. Oh yeah, they throw in free chips and salsa at no charge. Imagine that. Red Robin (3:30-6:30p. m., 9 p.m. - close, every day): Half-priced appetizers, $2.75 margaritas, discounted beer. Do "clucks'n'bottomless fries" get any better? Yeah, you get to watch the high school kids give each other noogies. TGIFriday's (4-7p.m., 9p.m.- close; every day): Selected halfpriced appetizers, most drinks and beer $3-5. Try not to think of "flare" while you look at the waitstaff's uniforms. The Varsity (3-6p.m., M-F): Half-priced appetizers, cheap beer, daily specials. Hey, it used to be Jillian's and now it's a sports bar. Cheers. I SUGGEST: The Ram (9p.m.- close, every day). With revolving daily specials, there's always a deal. The Ram in Lakewood -- if you're up to the trek -- takes 50 percent off your entire bill (drinks included) on Sunday nights. Breathes new life into your Sunday night, doesn't it? LIMITED Chopstix (Open-10p.m., Tues.- Thurs.): "Tightwad Tuesdays," $2 draft beers for guys on Wednesdays and ladies call any drink for $3 on Thursdays. Go just to say you've gone (these three days are the only "no cover" days so bring a request for the piano players). The Harmon (3-6p.m., M-F): Daily specials (all-you-can-eat on many days,) cheap homebrews and did I mention free peanuts?! Oh yeah, and it's stumbling distance from school. I SUGGEST: Meconi's (3- 6p.m., M-F). Half-priced appetizers, $3 beer and well drinks, daily specials and homebrews. If you've been to Olympia, you recognize the name. The sandwiches aren't happy hour material, but they're definitely worth a bite. Or several. FANCY PANTSY 21 Commerce (4-6p.m., Tues.- Sat.): 21 different cocktails (only $5 each) and starters. 10-ounce martinis and Asian-style upscale dining. Find the two hours to get happy. Asado (4-6p.m. & 10p.m.- close, M-F, also 5-6p.m. & 10p. m.-close, Sat): $2 beer, $3 well drinks, $3 off bar menu items. Doesn't sound like much, but ask around and you'll understand the hype for this place. Get in while you can. C.I. Shenanigan's (3-6p.m., MF & 9p.m.-close every day): Halfpriced appetizers (lots of seafood), $3 beer, $5 specialty drinks. Order wine and you'll get cheese and fruit tapas. If you haven't had tapas, quit reading this and head to the waterfront. Indochine (3:30-6:30p.m., MF): $3 appetizers and $3 house wine. This place is receiving praise, too, so scurry the few yards from the library, through Cherry-Parkes and into the lounge. Stanley & Seaforts (3-6p.m. and 9p.m.-close M-F, open-close Sunday): Half-priced appetizers, $3 well drinks and cocktails. An astounding view of Tacoma (go at night to avoid staring at congested Hwy. 705) with gourmet food you'll rarely be able to afford. Dress to the nines and take a special someone. I SUGGEST: The Vertigo Lounge. I couldn't find specific information on this place, but it's on the 26th floor of The Sheraton, next to Altezzo Ristorante. I've been there twice and have been awestruck both times. The panoramic view encompasses the heart of Tacoma. And if you get homesick, go out onto the observation deck and turn right. Down below you quite a ways is the UW, Tacoma campus. Aaaaahhhhhh, home sweet home. There are several other happy hours throughout the city, but these suggestions capture the heart of a real happy hour - cheap and entertaining.