Presidential trivia buffs and scholarly historians adore delving into the minutia of a presidential election, from the number of speeches given to how many states were visited how often over the course of the campaign.
But there's another interesting trend in recent years, one that makes a strong showing when a major Election Day arrives: local food and drink specials.
It's a phenomenon found across the nation, and whether you'll need to show your "I Voted" sticker to score a sweet deal on something savory, or simply be at the restaurant at the right time of day, can vary. But here's something to count on as we enter the polls and make our choices: The following Southern Californian eateries and bars will have some sort of discount or treat afoot on Tuesday, Nov. 8.
Affix your sticker to your lapel and head for...
Bar10: If you're looking to watch the election results on some big screens while you chow down on happy hour-esque bites, make for the West Hollywood hangout and order a bevy of just-introduced dishes and drinks at half-off (in honor of the night). New eats include Grandma's meatballs, an avocado-yummy dish called Cactus Leaf, and more.
Messhall: So you're proudly wearing the small oval that reveals you visited a polling place to cast your vote. How to get some sustenance with style? Make for this Los Feliz favorite and "receive the Ration of your choice" with the purchase of any entrée (think House Fries, cheese-laden grits, and more vege-hearty fare).
The Morrison: Show your "I Voted" sticker from 3 p.m. to midnight on Tuesday, Nov. 8 and receive a complimentary glass of beer or wine. Yes, this is a 21-and-over deal, but if you're not of age, and you have your sticker on, prepare to enjoy a gratis serving of bread pudding at the Los Feliz Boulevard restaurant.
The Scene
Want to find new things to do in Los Angeles? The Scene's lifestyle stories have you covered. Here's your go-to source on where the fun is across SoCal and for the weekend.
The Detour Bistro Bar: Swing by the Culver City venue for a daylong happy hour (11 in the morning to 11 o'clock in the evening). Plus? You'll nab a blue or red shot — your pick — if you're rocking your "I Voted" sticker.
Taste on Melrose: Ready to quaff a "complimentary sparkling wine" after you depart the polling place? Have your sticker on (of course) and show it to your server. Other specials, including "patriotic-inspired cocktails" and a $6 all-day happy hour menu round out the Nov. 8 sips and sups.
Tart: So you've wrapped up your vote by 5 o'clock, and you find yourself in the mid-city area, just off Fairfax Avenue? The restaurant at the Farmer's Daughter Hotel has a two-for-one drink special on (but, yes, you'll need to show that "I Voted" sticker).
The list grows: Is your go-to tavern spotlighting Election Day in some way? Pop in and ask, or consider making for Plan Check Kitchen + Bar, The Wallace, Winsome, or The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, which will all feature one-day-only bites or libations.
