Forno Happy Hour: The Perfect Mix of Taste and Savings
If you enjoy delicious food, creative drinks, and good deals, then you should know about Forno Happy Hour. It’s a time of day when guests can enjoy discounts on food and drinks in a trendy, welcoming setting. Forno restaurants offer this popular deal in different cities, making them a go-to spot for after-work relaxation or casual meetups.
Forno has locations in both Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio. Each location has its own vibe and happy hour style, but they all aim to bring great flavor and value to their guests.
What is Forno Happy Hour?
Forno Happy Hour is a weekday treat hosted by Forno Kitchen + Bar, typically from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It’s the time when diners get to enjoy half-price appetizers, pizzas, house cocktails, draft beers, and wines by the glass. Whether you’re stopping by after work or kicking off your evening with friends, happy hour at Forno creates the perfect setting for socializing.
The restaurant’s modern design, with floor-to-ceiling windows and warm lighting, sets a cozy tone for those looking to unwind. With great music and a bustling atmosphere, the experience feels upscale yet welcoming, making it a hotspot for both casual visits and after-work meetups.
Forno Kitchen + Bar – Columbus, OH
Located in the heart of the Short North Arts District, Forno Kitchen + Bar is renowned for its contemporary atmosphere and stone-fired pizzas. Their happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM, offering a variety of discounts that make it a local favorite.
Happy Hour Specials:
- 50% off draft beers, house cocktails, and wines by the glass
- 50% off all bar snacks, shared items, and pizzas
This generous offering makes it an ideal spot for after-work gatherings or a casual evening out.
| Category | Item Description | Discount Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Drinks | Draft beers, house cocktails, wine | 50% off |
| Food | Bar snacks, shared items, and pizzas | 50% off |
| Time Available | Monday to Friday | 4 PM to 6 PM |
| Atmosphere | Modern, artistic, casual | Great for small groups |
If you’re planning a group outing or want a quiet place for early dinner, this spot is a solid pick. The pizzas come straight from a stone-fired oven, and every cocktail is handcrafted.
Forno Osteria & Bar – Cincinnati, OH
In Cincinnati, Forno Osteria & Bar brings rustic Italian charm to the table. While they don’t have a traditional happy hour, they offer enticing weekly specials that provide similar value.
Weekly Specials:
- Monday Pasta Tasting: Enjoy four tasting pastas plus a dessert for $50.
- Bolo Tuesday: Savor Tagliatelle Bolognese with a field green salad and Allez Bakery bread for just $15.
- Wine-Down Wednesday: Dine-in customers receive 50% off select bottles of wine.
These specials offer a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic Italian flavors at a great value.
| Day | Special | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Pasta Tasting Menu | Four tasting pastas + dessert for $50 |
| Tuesday | Bolo Tuesday | Tagliatelle Bolognese, salad, bread – all for $15 |
| Wednesday | Wine-Down Wednesday | 50% off select bottles of wine |
These events don’t follow a typical “happy hour” model, but they provide excellent value for Italian cuisine fans. Every dish is made with fresh ingredients, and the wine list features local and international options.
Signature Items You Should Try
When visiting during Forno Happy Hour, some items stand out and are worth trying. From snacks to full entrées, each item is designed with flavor and value in mind.
| Category | Item Name | Description | Happy Hour Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drink | Aperol Spritz | Light and bubbly Italian classic | $8 |
| Food | Margherita Pizza | Classic tomato, basil, mozzarella | $10 |
| Food | Buffalo Cauliflower | Crispy, spicy, and shareable | Varies |
| Drink | House Red or White | Select wines available by the glass | 50% off |
These items change from time to time, so it’s always smart to ask the server for seasonal or rotating selections.
Atmosphere and Experience
One of the reasons why Forno Happy Hour is so popular is the ambiance. The restaurants are modern, with large windows, open kitchens, and vibrant music. You’ll find trendy decor, glowing wood-fired ovens, and friendly staff that make the experience even better.
Whether you’re meeting colleagues or enjoying solo time with a glass of wine, you’ll feel welcome. The seating is comfortable, and many locations also offer patios or outdoor spots.
Also Read: Benihana Happy Hour: Best Food and Drink Deals to Enjoy
Tips to Maximize Your Visit
If you want to make the most of Forno Happy Hour, a few tips will help. These suggestions come from frequent guests and locals who know the ins and outs of the scene.
| Tip No. | Advice | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive early | Seats fill quickly, especially on Fridays |
| 2 | Try multiple items | Discounts make it easy to sample a few |
| 3 | Ask about seasonal specials | Limited-time dishes are often available |
| 4 | Share with friends | Shared items give you more variety |
Also Read: Taco Cabana Happy Hour: The Perfect Time to Enjoy Great Deals
Nutritional Information
Health-conscious diners often wonder what kind of meals are served during happy hour. Forno does a good job offering items with fresh ingredients and options for different diets.
| Item | Calories (approx.) | Vegetarian | Gluten-Free |
|---|---|---|---|
| Margherita Pizza | 600 – 750 | Yes | No |
| Buffalo Cauliflower | 450 – 500 | Yes | Yes |
| House Salad | 300 – 350 | Yes | Yes |
| Tagliatelle Bolognese | 650 – 800 | No | No |
You can always ask the staff for allergen info. Forno staff are trained to help you make the best choice based on dietary needs.
Also Read: Tommy Bahama Happy Hour: Island Vibes with Delicious Deals
Why Locals Love Forno Happy Hour
There are many restaurants offering happy hour deals, but Forno Happy Hour stands out. It combines quality ingredients, stylish ambiance, friendly service, and affordable prices. Locals praise the cocktails, and pizza fans love the thin, crispy crusts.
Regulars also appreciate how the menu changes occasionally. This keeps the experience fresh and gives people reasons to come back. Many customers also celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or promotions during happy hour because the setting is both festive and relaxed.
Is Forno Happy Hour Family-Friendly?
While Forno has a chic and modern vibe, families are welcome. The happy hour menu appeals to adults, but the staff are accommodating to children. High chairs are available, and many dishes can be customized for younger taste buds.
It’s common to see families come in for an early dinner during Forno Happy Hour, especially on quieter weekdays.
Also Read: Walk-Ons Happy Hour: A Guide to the Best Deals and Fun
What Sets Forno Happy Hour Apart?
There are plenty of happy hours in Columbus, but Forno Happy Hour stands out because of its combination of value, quality, and ambiance. The commitment to service and presentation is evident in every drink poured and plate served. Also, being in the heart of the Short North makes it a perfect place to start your night.
Local events, art galleries, and boutique shopping are all within walking distance. This makes Forno a convenient and stylish stop for anyone wanting a full evening of entertainment.
Final Thoughts
Forno Happy Hour is one of the best deals in both Columbus and Cincinnati. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick drink, stone-fired pizza, or handcrafted pasta, Forno delivers high quality at low prices. The staff, the food, and the atmosphere make it worth the visit.
Next time you’re near the Short North or exploring Cincinnati’s neighborhoods, make it a point to stop by. You’ll enjoy more than just great food—you’ll enjoy a moment of comfort and connection.
Also Read: Best Happy Hour: Enjoy Food, Drinks, and Fun for Less
