Each week, Hermosa Beach Patch publishes a roundup of local happy hours and drink specials. This time, the focus is on where to grab a nightcap—here are three Hermosa Beach hot spots that allow you to do just that:

Goin' full circle with coffee

Hennessey's Tavern on Pier Plaza offers a signature Buena Vista's original Irish Coffee on its menu. Wind down with the same beverage you often use to start your day—but with a twist. The Irish coffee is made with Irish whiskey, fresh coffee, sugar and whipped cream, according to the Hennessey's website.

Sweet ending

When Palmilla Cocina y Tequila first opened in Hermosa Beach, Patch recommended its Mexican hot chocolate martini, which remains a favorite. The drink is made with Cazadores Reposado tequila, disaronno originale and crème de caco chilled, shaken and served up in a chilled glass swirled with chocolate syrup and topped with a pinch of hand-crushed chipotle powder.

A tradition

Many locals often gather at one Pier Plaza venue for a nightcap: Mermaid. Patch's former nightlife columnist Danielle Lenglet once recalled noticing a group of people walking toward the downtown bar one night.

"Time for Mermaid," one man said. "Because you gotta end it with the best."