THE LOCALE | Solano's Trattoria, Conway

THE LOWDOWN | After an afternoon of shopping at the Black Water Market in Conway, wet your whistle at Solano's Trattoria. That's where we went this week for happy hour.

Solano's Trattoria is located in Conway's Black Water Market where Ultimate California Pizza used to be. It is a laid back spot where business professionals head after work for a relaxing drink. You'll find a mix of ages from college kids to retirees, mostly locals.

A majority of the establishment is an open room dining area. There is a small bar with bar stools in the back corner. You can also sit outside, either out front or in the "Gallery Seating" out the side door by the brick walls of the Black Water Market, which looks like you're outside but you get to enjoy the comfort of air conditioning.

Solano's Trattoria is a popular stop for lunch as well as dinner. Menu items include Panini, pasta, pizza and appetizers such as calamari and mussels.

You can get $5 appetizers during happy hour, which runs from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed on Sundays.) Small pizzas are half-price during happy hour. Drink deals include $4.50 house wine and $3.50 house liquors.

TIPS | Park on street in front of building.

FIND IT | 328 Laurel St., Conway. Call 488-4008 or visit www.solanostrattoria.com.

Mandy Rodgers, for Weekly Surge