LOCAL CUSTOMS · BOSTON
How happy hour works in Boston
The exception. Massachusetts does not allow a discounted drink. A Boston “happy hour” that is legal is a food deal at the regular bar price.
United States rules and habits →
The rule
204 CMR 4.03, in force since 10 December 1984, prohibits selling a drink below the price charged the rest of that calendar week, two-for-one, all-you-can-drink, a larger pour for the same money, free drinks, and drinks as prizes. The rule is a condition of every on-premise licence. Food is not in that list. A burger at 5 for less than the dinner price is the lawful happy hour.
Using the Atlas here
Food can be the special. The drink is supposed to stay at the regular bar price. If a Boston card shows a cheaper cocktail, it may be a group menu written for another city, or a food price read as a drink. Order the food, and expect the usual price on the cocktail.