Make your vote count

Voting is underway, beginning today, for the Barack Attack (from left) or McCain Terrain maki roll at RA Sushi. (Photo: RA Sushi)


The Democratic National Convention is officially underway, and just because it's in Denver doesn't mean you cannot get in on the action right here at home.

RA Sushi wants you to participate in the election process by voting on your favorite new maki roll—the Barack Attack or McCain Terrain.

A small group of media types got a sneak preview of these rolls last week, and the McCain Terrain, filled with tangy spicy tuna, crab, crunchy red tempura bits and finished with a sweet eel sauce and chile mayo, was the overwhelming winner. The Barack Attack was aight, but no where as flavorful as the candidate. It was layered with smoked salmon and cream cheese, topped with crunchy blue tempura bits, and finished with a sweet eel sauce and wasabi mayo.

Both rolls come on a "campaign platter" for $10; $3 from every sale benefits Rock the Vote. The winning candidate’s roll will be "inaugurated" onto the menu at all three Chicagoland RA Sushi restaurants through Oct. 3.

Also happening today:

New industry night AK47 Mondays continues at Angels & Kings, with DJ Paul Blair spinning with special guests. Also, deals on Effen drinks. 9pm-2am. Free.

The No-Tax Lunch is happening at BIN 36 through October. This should be an extra special deal for those Loop lunchers having to pay the extra food and beverage tax for the downtown area. 11am-2pm.

Limited tickets are still available for the wine event occurring at Whole Foods Market (3300 N. Ashland Ave.): A Taste of the Pacific Northwest. Husband-and-wife team Sam and Sunny McDaniel will guide guests through some of the region's best wines and cheeses. 7-9pm. Call 773-244-4200 for the $10 tix.

Who knows who you'll catch at Monday Night Live, the big industry night over at Petterino’s. Established and emerging singers—even cast members touring with "Wicked," "Phantom of the Opera" and more!—have been known to grace the stage for cabaret and show-stopping performances. Those wishing to sign up are required to get there by 7pm and provide their own sheet music. 7:30-10pm. $15 per person dining minimum.

And summer's winding down, so it's finally time for a Chill—as in Berry Chill. Get ready for the second location—in the Loop at 132 N. LaSalle St.—which opens on Tuesday, Sept. 2. To celebrate the launch, they're giving away free Berry Chill to all 312 Dining Diva subscribers! All you have to do in order to receive your small yogurt (with up to three toppings) is to send me your name for the 312DD Guest List. Then you're ALL good! Offer is only good on Sept. 2 at the LaSalle location and an ID is required to claim your treat.