He who laughs last laughs best, unless he doesn't finish laughing before the parole hearing starts. Empty your chuckle reservoirs in an appropriate setting with today's Groupon: for $18, you get two VIP tickets to The Comedy Palace on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard (a $50 value). This Groupon also entitles you to a $10 food credit valid on a $30 or more dinner bill, not including drinks.

Recently taken over by new management, The Comedy Palace spotlights a rotating cast of six to eight headliners for its Wednesday- through Sunday-evening performances, backdropped by a signature red curtain. After making a reservation, flash your VIP Groupon, skip the line, and head toward swanky preferred stage seating, optimal for dodging pointed punch lines from comics looking to single out your taste in ringtones. Peruse a calendar of talent in advance and reserve a space for yourself, your date, your soon-to-be tickled funny bones, and your two drink minimums ($3.95 for soda, $4.95–$7.95 for most alcoholic drinks).

During the show, fuel guffaws and cushion bellies full of laughter with delectable Greek-inspired cuisine via The Comedy Palace's dinner menu, chock-full of entrees such as chicken souvlaki ($18.95) and hearty gyro plates ($17.95). Those looking to grab a lighter bite may select from an array of salads ($8.95–$11.95) or opt for the Atlantic salmon, poached in a creamy white wine sauce with lemon juice, capers, and rosemary and served with veggies and the funniest naturally occurring fruit, the mashed potato ($18.95).