B.C. burger restaurant polls customers ahead of provincial election

Weeks before a provincial election, Burger Heaven in New Westminster is asking customers to cast ballots with their palates. Its special menu features burgers representing party leaders. The burger for B.C. Conservative Lorne Doerkson comes with a couple of strips of bacon and melted Chilcotin blue cheese, while the David Eby NDP burger includes provolone. Each burger sold adds a tally for the corresponding party to a board at the restaurant.

Manager Chris Gieb told CTV News that people called to ask whether the poll would return soon after Eby called a snap election. Gieb said the poll is a good way for the restaurant to make money and thanked Eby for calling the election.

Gieb said the burger poll began 35 years ago, when Burger Heaven’s original owner ran for mayor. He said patrons have provided fairly accurate polling for their provincial riding, New Westminster-Coquitlam. “For our particular riding, yeah, we’re pretty much 100 per cent,” he said.

One customer told CTV News the “Bun-official” burger poll was a fun way to follow the election, calling it “awesome” and “something different than just negativity.” Another patron said it was a great idea because it gives the public a hint of what people are thinking, adding that there is no more delicious way to cast a vote.

Gieb said Burger Heaven is happy to accommodate people who are interested in the poll but do not want one of the featured burgers. The restaurant found that some customers would rather order something from the regular menu, so it offers that choice instead of making them buy a poll burger. Gieb said getting customers talking about issues is just as important as getting them through the door.

“Get out and vote. That’s the main priority behind this whole scenario,” he said.