Depression-era cocktails at 1930's prices

OK, so I've been neglecting this blog for a couple of months. I toyed with letting it go entirely, but on second thought, I've decided to keep it going a while longer. It would help me stay motivated if I knew someone besides me was reading it! So feel free to leave comments and feedback :)

Tonight is the weekly Soup Kitchen happy hour from 5 to 7 at The Edison. Here's the deal:

Financial markets in crisis; $700 Billion bailout of Wall Street; Global Financial Meltdown!

The Edison Lounge responds to the crisis with a meltdown of its own. FREE Grilled Cheese Melts and tomato soup as well as Depression Era cocktails at the Depression Era price of 35 cents. The Edison brings a much needed respite to those in need. In an effort to restore confidence in the community and its businesses, The Edison introduces The Soup Kitchen, Friday from 5-7 PM: to remind everyone to maintain perspective through this financial crisis and to support those truly in need.

25% of net proceeds from the night go to local food banks and charities. Additional donations are welcome and will be passed along to those who need our support the most.

At the door, you are handed a postcard that asks you to check a box saying whether your 401(K) is Half Full or Half Empty, and a buffalo nickel. You hand the bartender your card to get your one 35-cent cocktail: either a 401(K), a gin drink, or a Bailout, a bourbon drink. There's space to write something about the state of the economy, and the best quote wins 2 VIP tickets to the Wednesday-night Lucent Dossier show.

You redeem your nickel for a tiny cup of tomato soup and a postage-stamp size square of grilled cheese sandwich. Cute, but not very filling. I suspect the giveaway is designed to encourage you to order the real grilled cheese and tomato soup from the Edison's very extensive bar menu, to the tune of $14.

Wear a vintage dress, fishnets and heels, if you're a lady, or a snappy waiscoat and fedora, if you're a gent. The Edison, a converted 19-century power station, is all about atmosphere and attitude. There's no street parking from 4 to 6, so park in one of the lots nearby, or use the valet.

The Edison, in the basement of the Higgins Building at the corner of 2nd and Harlem Place (between Spring and Main), 108 W. 2nd Street #108, Los Angeles, CA 90012.