Baltimore Restaurant Week launches on Friday, January 20 and lasts for nine days, all the way through to January 29. Though organized frenzy is to be expected as folks jump at the opportunity to spend $20 or $30 on prix-fixe meals at establishments they normally don’t hit, we’ve searched out several participating spots with great happy hour offerings, so you can appease your palate at the bar before fighting the crowds. Check out our picks below, and be sure to make reservations because spots fill up fast.

B&O American Brasserie: Happy hour here has a devoted following, with weekday specials that include $3 draft beers, wines or champagne. The $5 mixed drinks are made with an artful twist and scientific approach, which you can also look for in the diverse prix-fixe dinner menu (2 N. Charles St.; 443-692-6172).

Blue Agave: For a more casual feel, this Federal Hill Mexican showcases a variety of tequila-based drinks. If you snag a weekday res, hit up the 5–7 PM happy hour, with $5 margaritas, sangrias and wine and $3 Dos Equis drafts. If you go on the weekend, those same specials run 10 PM–close, Friday–Saturday, perfect for an after-meal nightcap (1032 Light St.; 410-576-3938).

Sascha’s: This beautiful downtown space features a finely-tuned wine list – not too large that it overwhelms, and not too pricey that it offends – as well as inventive cocktails and a good selection of beer and whiskey. Count on prompt and friendly bar service during the Monday–Friday happy hour, critical if you’re going to sit down for dinner on time (527 N. Charles St.; 410-539-8880).

Ten Ten: Match your prix-fixe supper with the prix-fixe happy hour – everything on the special menu is $5, including wine, a featured cocktail, draft beers and select bar food. You can pre-game your meal with cheap sips and eats from 3–7 PM every weekday. Inside tip: it’s worth the splurge for the regularly-priced High Line cocktail, with burnt rosemary garnish (1010 Fleet St.; 410-244-6867).

Vino Rosina: This Italian in trendy Harbor East offers happy hour 4–7 PM, Monday–Friday so make your res for a weekday to check out their good selection of beer, cocktails and wine priced for amazing values. House-infused martinis made with Prairie organic vodka will make a good aperitif to your Restaurant Week meal (507 S. Exeter St., 410-528-8600).

Photo via B&O Brasserie on Facebook