Buddy V's Ristorante Happy Hour. The Strip

The $8 meatballs are the move. They're Buddy Valastro's signature, big and properly seasoned in marinara, and at eight dollars they're the cheapest filling thing on the bar menu and the best representation of what this kitchen does. Pair them with a $5 glass of house wine and a $9 calamari to share, or the $10 pizza if you've got a bigger group.

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday, 3 to 5pm, in the bar area. Drinks are easy on the wallet for the Venetian: $5 house wine, $6 cocktails, $4 beer.

This is the Cake Boss's Italian-American spot, and the portions land family-style rather than precious. The room is warm and unpretentious, with photos of Buddy on the walls that read more endearing than ego. It's one of the more kid-friendly upscale options on the Strip, so expect families mixed in with Venetian guests and curious Cake Boss fans.

Come between 3 and 4pm for a quieter scene; closer to 5 it starts shifting toward the dinner rush. Two people can share appetizers and walk away satisfied. Buddy built his name on dessert, so even though the cannoli and tiramisu sit outside the happy hour menu, save a little room and budget for one.