Seftel: 2 high-value dining deals

A sinking economy in the middle of the summer doldrums: This scenario is not exactly a Valley restaurant owner’s dream come true. But the combination works to the advantage of folks who still have disposable income.

Here are two places where you’ll find high-value discounts.

T. Cook’s is letting you put together a three-course dinner – any appetizer, any entrée, any dessert – for $45. Among the appetizer possibilities are lobster fennel bisque, soft shell crab with heirloom tomatoes and foie gras with a cherry tart. The entrée choices include Georges Bank scallops with clams and chorizo, grilled beef tenderloin with a blue cheese potato galette and lobster tortellini. Finish up with a tropical fruit torte, chocolate parfait or the terrific cream cheese brulee.

The offer is good Sunday through Thursday, through Sept.30.

At the Los Sombreros late-night happy hour, all you need is a bill with a picture of Abraham Lincoln: mixed drinks and eats are $5. The five-spot will get you shrimp cocktail with mango, watermelon and panela cheese salad, two chicken tacos, three carnitas tacos, nachos with guacamole and two rajas (roasted chile strips) quesadillas. Wash them down with a margarita, mojito or sangria, or take advantage of the $2 Dos Equis.

The happy-hour menu runs from 9 to 11 p.m., Tuesday through Friday.

Details: T. Cook’s, 5200 E. Camelback Road (Royal Palms Resort and Spa), Phoenix, 602-808-0766. royalpalmshotel.com | More info

Los Sombreros, 2534 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-994-1799. lossombreros.com | More info

Chicken tacos at Los Sombreros in Scottsdale.