By 3PM, the afternoon slump can hit pretty hard. Lunch is long gone, dinner is still hours away, and another cup of coffee might not be enough to save the day. P.F. Chang’s has a tasty way to make those slow afternoons more exciting.
Videos by Sporked
The restaurant has introduced a new weekday Happy Hour with discounted drinks, full-size appetizers, and a sushi-and-drink pairing that sounds perfect for a midweek break. There are also some exciting menu updates, including the return of a popular calamari dish and three entrées that are now permanent fixtures.
P.F. Chang’s Happy Hour Comes With More Than Cheap Drinks
P.F. Chang’s new Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 to 6PM at participating locations. Select beer and wine cost $6, cocktails are $9, and full-size appetizers are available for $12.
Happy Hour menus often feature small bites that leave diners hungry for something more. P.F. Chang’s is offering full-size appetizers, so there is a better chance of finding something that can hold everyone over until dinner.
$15 Sushi & Sip Deal
The new Sushi & Sip pairing is one of the most interesting additions to the menu. For $15, diners get a Spicy Tuna Roll or California Roll, along with either a Sapporo beer or Joto One “Graffiti Cup” sake.
The California Roll sounds like the safer choice for anyone who prefers milder flavors. The Spicy Tuna Roll, on the other hand, should appeal to diners who enjoy a little heat with their sushi.
I think this is a good deal for anyone who wants a light afternoon meal. The price includes both food and a drink, so there is no need to order them separately. It is also a nice chance to try sake without committing to a full bottle.
Japanese Wok-Fired Calamari Is Back For Good
P.F. Chang’s is also bringing back Japanese Wok-Fired Calamari as a year-round menu item. The appetizer features calamari with scallions, Fresno peppers, and wasabi aioli for dipping.
Calamari is also a great choice for Happy Hour. It is easy to share, pairs well with a cold beer, and offers something different from the usual bar snacks.
The creamy texture and sharp flavor of the wasabi aioli should give the calamari a little kick, while the Fresno peppers add some heat.
Three Entrées Are Now Permanent Menu Favorites
The Happy Hour news comes with another exciting update. Three dishes that were previously limited-time offerings are now permanent additions to the menu: NY Prime Strip Steak Tataki, Lobster & Prawn Fried Rice, and Oolong Chilean Sea Bass.
The NY Prime Strip Steak Tataki features lightly seared steak with yuzu ponzu, butter, togarashi aioli, and microgreens. It sounds like a great option for anyone who enjoys a rich, savory steak with a little citrus and spice.
The Lobster & Prawn Fried Rice combines seafood with P.F. Chang’s fried rice, cremini mushrooms, and lobster sauce. Then there is the Oolong Chilean Sea Bass, which is marinated with tea and served with blistered grape tomatoes, shishito peppers, spinach, and ginger-soy sauce.
The New Wine List Makes Choosing A Glass Easier
P.F. Chang’s has also redesigned its wine list, adding Seven Daughters Moscato, the wine brand associated with Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson. Henson serves as a strategic advisor and creative collaborator for the brand.
The restaurant recommends pairing the Moscato with Dynamite Shrimp, which sounds like an interesting combination of sweet wine and spicy seafood. The redesigned wine list is also organized around flavor profiles, making it easier for diners to find something they might enjoy without knowing much about wine.
The list includes Gratien Meyer Crémant de Loire Brut Rosé, Belle Glos “Las Alturas” Pinot Noir, Stags’ Leap “Aveta” Sauvignon Blanc, Penfolds Max’s Shiraz, and DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon.
There is another reason to visit on a Wednesday. P.F. Chang’s is offering half-price bottles of wine, Champagne, and sake all day at participating locations. That gives diners another chance to enjoy the new wine list at a lower price.
Thoughts? Questions? Complete disagreement? Leave a comment!