Best Reverse Happy Hour

Kansas City may not be close to an ocean, but it boasts one of the country's top Japanese restaurants, according to the 2008 Zagat survey. A true downtown jewel, Nara no doubt snagged the national rating for its scrumptious sushi, awesome sake selection and trendy atmosphere. All of these characteristics are best experienced during reverse happy hour at our own little Japanese robata. From 10 p.m. to close Monday through Saturday, enjoy a discount on the Far Eastern cuisine and beverages while a local DJ spins. A late-night snack doesn't cost much — spicy tuna rolls go for $3, and soft spring rolls are $4. Get certain sake brands for $5, hot or cold. Or swill a glass of Kikkoman plum wine for $5. The same deals apply during regular old happy hour, too (3 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 3 to 6 p.m. Friday), but the DJs come out only at night.