A little something from Tom, inspired by someone's comment that stuck in our heads. While the comment stuck in Tom's head, the identity of the idiot who said it didn't stick in his head.

As a new convention feature of Traveling Valentine, we are proud to show how Anime Expo and its designated location tackled the task of keeping its attendees fed throughout the convention. Eating is an often overlooked activity during a convention and many take it for granted. Some may consider coverage about dining a waste of time. But think about it: No matter how much someone likes anime and a convention, no one can survive on anime, cosplay, games, and Exhibit Hall merchandise alone. Basic physiology states that a person has to eat. Now one can either think that eating is a chore that detracts from the con, or one can think that eating is part of the convention experience.

The Los Angeles Convention Center offers convenient food, but prices include a convenience fee for allowing attendees to eat without leaving the premises. You won't miss a moment of the con antics while enjoying a quick bite.

There's even food sold and sampled inside the Exhibit Hall. This is a perfect integration of dining and enjoying the convention.

For those more adventurous, taking a walk away from the convention center and into a nearby restaurant offers not only a chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the convention, but it's also a chance to taste some local eats. Chances are you can find a unique restaurant that can't be found in your neighborhood. Savor the flavor.

FOX Sports Bar: Comfort food; Televisions for sports; Only open during sporting events.

La Bella Cucina: Italian food; Well-stocked bar; No freezers to ensure fresh meals.

Whether eating at the convention center or at an off-site restaurant, a random encounter with a fellow attendee is a chance to make new friends or reconnect with old friends you haven't seen in some time. And while breaking bread together, you can always discuss your current meal when you're tired of talking about anime or the convention.

Oh, look. Pictures of people and their friends eating at a restaurant during the convention.

Food is now even accepted as fair game for cosplay.

So if you consider coverage of people enjoying their meals during the convention isn't part of the con, put your money where your mouth is and don't eat during the convention. Now it's time for dinner after four days of AX.

Buca di Beppo: Family-style Italian food with large portions and casual atmosphere.

A simple philosophy of convention coverage: If it's at the con, it's part of the con.

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