It’s a political party and you’re invited. You don’t need to be a card-carrying party member to join the caucus ’round the bar. Herd in with the party animals and eavesdrop as they dish about everything from foreign policy to the latest City Hall scandal. (Remember Antonio and Mirthala?) If it’s happy hour at the civic center, scan the crowd for city badges peeking out from blazers or hanging from purses. If it says “Mayor” or “City Council,” the gossip’s bound to be juicier.
Election viewing parties
Where boozers talk politics and watch election results
By Andrea Adleman, Special to Metromix
February 5, 2008Broadway Bar
830 S. Broadway, Los Angeles213-614-9909
Good for Democrats: It’s often hard to tell the difference between politicians and actors. Think Ronald Reagan, Arnold Schwarzenegger and now Fred Thompson. Enjoy the political theater from here on Broadway. During intermission, you can wander up to the second floor, where the mirrors allow you to spy discreetly on the wheeling and dealing down below.
The Edison
108 W. 2nd St. #101, Los Angeles213-613-0000
Good for Democrats: After a few drinks in this stunning venue, you may just get a bright idea and spark the next revolution. If you need more inspiration, rendezvous with Drinking Liberally on the third Wednesday of the month, when they get their motors running in the generator lounge.
J Restaurant and Lounge
1119 S. Olive St., Los Angeles213-746-7746
Good for Democrats: With so many nooks and crannies at this spacious club, you can claim one as your field office and cut your back-room deals in high style. Show your civic pride and order the signature Los Angeles cocktail, which J Lounge calls “our version of the Manhattan.”
Pete's Cafe and Bar
400 S. Main St., Los Angeles213-617-1000
Good for Democrats: All politicians claim to speak for the folks on Main Street, USA. To maintain your L.A. cred, visit this popular Main St. café and mingle with your peeps in the ’hood. Lunch hour is abuzz with politicians and deputies from City Hall, just a few blocks away.
Luminarias Restaurant
3500 Ramona Blvd., Monterey ParkGood for Republicans: This community institution is the “big tent” for all sorts of civic gatherings and private receptions, including the monthly meetings of the county Republican Party. In addition to Latin American dishes, its kitchen caters to Asian, Continental, children’s and other culinary persuasions.
Benvenuto Cafe
8512 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood310-659-8635
Good for Republicans: If you’ve heard the phrase "Log Cabin Republicans" but have no idea what it means, today’s your day to learn something new. The Log Cabin is home to GLBT Republicans. The L.A. chapter is welcome at Benvenuto Café, where meetings are held on the fourth Monday of the month.
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