Chicago q
Did you fill out a ballot? Prove it! Show your "I voted" sticker and receive a complimentary house-made cookie — your choice of chocolate chip, oatmeal with candied bacon, or spiced pumpkin with brûlée marshmallow. Chicago q will broadcast all election coverage downstairs in the bar or in the upstairs lounge. What could be more all-American than a barbecue dinner? Bring on that cheesy jalapeño corn bread!
Chicago q, 1160 North Dearborn Street (at Division Street); 312-642-1160.
Frontier
This Noble Square lodge is also requesting proof (that nifty sticker again) to reap the Election Day bennies, including a complimentary craft cocktail with the purchase of a regular-priced menu item, like its yummy pan-seared bass. There will also be $2 oysters, game tacos, half-pints, and deviled eggs. Catch the election coverage downstairs or in the upstairs lounge on 11 42-inch HD TVs and two 6-foot projectors.
Frontier, 1072 North Milwaukee Avenue (at Noble Street); 773-772-4322.
Tavern on Rush
Not sure if the guy eyeing you across the bar is your type? Just check out his olive — seriously. While watching the Election Day coverage, thirsty patrons who choose one of Tavern's signature martinis (vodka or gin) can show whom they voted for by selecting Republican red jumbo olives stuffed with pimentos or Democrat blue cheese stuffed olives. Sometimes, actions really do speak louder than words — and are a heck of a lot tastier, too.
Tavern on Rush, 1031 North Rush Street (between Bellevue Place and Cedar Street); 312-664-9600.
The Pony Inn
We can't tell you what's in it, but you can get your fix of red, white, or blue pony punch in a hurricane glass for just $5 a pop while watching the election coverage on overhead plasma televisions and at tables that feature an individual flat-screens — cool! There will also be $3 Tecate cans, $5 Maestro Dobel tequila shots, and $5 margaritas. Talk about Tuesday boozeday! You better fill up on the $1 beef tacos to avoid any post-election hangover.
The Pony Inn, 1638 West Belmont Avenue (between Ashland and Lincoln Avenue); 773-828-5055.
Mayne Stage
If you're looking for a completely different way of celebrating Election Day, this is it. Ten legendary female blues musicians (think Cookie Taylor, Shirley King, Liz Mandeville, Deirta Farr) gather at the Mayne Stage to sing for women's issues and rights. And, so you don't miss out on any of the pertinent updates, NFL alum Charlie Brown will provide election commentary throughout the evening. The show starts at 7 p.m., and tickets are $10 to $13. Call for details.
Mayne Stage,1328 West Morse Avenue (between Wayne and Glenwood Avenues); 773-381-4554.
Schubas Tavern
WBEZ radio station will be broadcasting live in-between sets from Statutes of Liberty — a group of like-minded players from various noteworthy Chicago bands (Bon Mots, Milk At Midnight, The Cells, Erie Street Jazz, 4 out of 5 Dentists) that play 21st century versions of freedom rock. Even more awesome, 312 drafts are $2.50, and voters get a free dessert with the purchase of an entrée. Stick around long enough, and you can be a part of the complimentary blue or red champagne toast.
Schubas Tavern, 3159 North Southport Avenue (between Belmont Avenue and Fletcher Street); 773-525-2508.
Hyde Park Hair Salon
A viewing party at a hair salon? You betcha. Located in Obama's neighborhood (and yes, he's been a client), this Hyde Park salon/barbershop has been around since 1927 — and it's pretty obvious whose side you have to be on to attend this soirée. Enjoy food, bevs, and presidential games while watching the results projected on a large screen. Call for ticket details.
Hyde Park Hair Salon, 5324 South Blackstone Avenue (between 52nd and 53rd Streets); 773-905-8668.
Photo: Courtesy of Tavern on Rush