When I lived in London, pubs were the cheapest solution for hunger. I measured each pub’s worthiness by the availability of a good cook and Magner’s cider over ice—a combination not easily found stateside. So when I heard that Kate’s Pub in Wallingford offers both, I was intrigued. And upon hearing that the entire food menu is half-price at happy hour (4-7 p.m. Mon.-Fri.), I was hooked. Kate’s cooks up standard pub fare, but everything tastes fresh: The BLT ($3.50) offers a satisfying crunch as its ingredients meld with a perfect amount of mayo, and three Peewee Burgers ($3) are as flavorful as they are cute. Kate’s beer selection ranges from Mac & Jack’s smooth Serengeti Wheat ($3) or African Amber ($3) to standards like Guinness ($5) and PBR ($1.50). But, seriously, try the Magner’s ($5). It captures the best part of an apple’s flavor, tasting sweet but not sugary and tart without bitterness. Like many British pubs, Kate’s atmosphere is understated. It does pack a pool table, dartboards, and a big projector screen for sports, but the main draw is its comfort food—at an even comfier cost. 309 N.E. 45th St., 547-6832. WALLINGFORD