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Where to Imbibe on Election Night
Whichever side you’ve voted for, you’ll want a stiff drink when all is said and done
This article originally appeared in the November 2016 issue of Seattle magazine.
Note: This article has been changed since originally published.
Following a challenging—no, make that painful—campaign season, the presidential election is finally here. While we won’t know the outcome until November 8, one thing we do know: Whichever side you’ve voted for, you’ll want a stiff drink when all is said and done. Here’s where you might enjoy election-night refreshments.
For Clinton Victory Partiers
The diverse coalition driving Clinton to the Oval Office will be right at home at Cap Hill stalwart Liberty (517 15th Ave. E), which has a unique vibe that’s inclusive and fun. Liberty also offers a varied selection of spirits and liqueurs, which are mixed into well-made, balanced cocktails—the drink rendition of the Clinton slogan “Stronger together.” Clinton’s favorite, a vodka martini, created at Liberty with a locally made vodka, might be a nice choice. Once owned solely by politically minded drink master Andrew Friedman and now the nation’s first co-op bar, Liberty is an ideal place for those with more Democratic- and progressive-leaning ideals. Also, a bar whose name is snug within a key phrase of the Declaration of Independence, “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” seems like an appropriate Election Day choice. (Side note: Liberty itself is apolitical, and welcomes all.)
For Trump Victory Partiers
Trump is a known teetotaler and steak lover. On election night, his fans might want to enjoy a classic American meal at one of the city’s premier steak houses, perhaps accompanied by a Diet Coke or Diet Pepsi, Trump favorites. The Metropolitan Grill (downtown, 820 Second Ave; 206.624.3287) and The Capital Grille (downtown, 1301 Fourth Ave.; 206.382.0900) both have reputations for serving some of the best steaks in town—although the chefs there may not be thrilled that Mr. Trump likes his steaks well-done, anathema for connoisseurs. Perhaps they could teach him how to make a steak great again.
For Those Without a Party Who Just Want to Party
Want a place to celebrate without Dems/GOP affiliation? The Sazerac at Hotel Monaco (downtown, 1101 Fourth Ave.; 206.624.7755) has you covered with an election-night hoedown that boasts special cocktails and candidate-themed sliders. The Abstention, in honor of Bernie, is bubbly enough with Prosecco, sugar and house-made blackberry-tarragon bitters to bring a slight smile to sad faces. There will also be a vote by slider or cocktail—try to rewrite the contest results by eating and drinking as much as possible.
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