Evening reception is standard on weeknights at most all Residence Inns (I've stayed in lots), as is breakfast on weekdays. Breakfast is better (usually includes fruit, cereals, make-your-own waffles, eggs, sausage, some kind of potato). Food in the evening is different each night, but not good - of the make-your-own taco variety. You'll also see a large beaker each of red and white wine (neither are very good). Much better to get a room in a good hotel on the club level.

True, but I think rte66kid was pointing out that occasionally you run across a RI that goes above and beyond the build-your-own-taco bar. The RI in San Antonio occasionally cooked out for us - nice grilled chicken sandwiches, burgers, brats, and cold beers outside - but it was only about once a week.

But no question: finding a good full-service hotel with a well-stocked C-level is the best way to go. Assuming, that is, that you will stay within that hotel group often enough to reach whatever frequent-stay level is required for access. :)

Marriott Yes - Embassy Suites NO
 

Stayed at Embassy Suites San Francisco airport recently. The evening reception was a joke. Pretzels and Chex mix were the extent of the appetizers. Pitiful. Marriott's Springhill Suites and Residence Inn offer much more variety at evening receptions and we will choose those hotels because we like to relax with a drink and a nice snack after a hard day shopping or sightseeing. Embassy Suites is off our booking list!

Drury Inn
 

While the number of locations is somewhat limited, Drury Inns have an evening reception. They also have free popcorn and soft drinks in the lobby in the afternoon and each room gets a few free drinks (I think just beer and wine, but not sure) each night.

Unless you think 1-3 shots of rotgut liquor is worth scheming for- I'd pass.

But this depends on your age and perspective. If I were 23 years old and on a modest salary- I'd think I was living like king eating frozen hotel appetizers and getting drunk on low-end spirits. Now, not so much.