2009 Eat Out Awards Critics' Picks

Photo: Aaron Corey; Model: Angela McAdrian

Promo King
RODNEY ALEX OF JUICY WINE CO.
When Rodney Alex crosses your path, you’d better have 15 minutes to spare, because the man always has something he needs to tell you. “Orange Crush waffles!” he’ll scream. “Kick-ass BLTs!” “The most insane chili dog you’ve ever tasted!” These aren’t the ravings of a guy who’s had too much muscat (not all the time, at least); these are some of the events Alex has thrown at Juicy Wine Co. Missing his “Dirty Bird” Sunday brunch, when he pairs those waffles with chicken and half-priced sparkling wine, or the “Wrath of Kahan,” when he persuaded Blackbird chef Paul Kahan to DJ for a night, is not advisable. But there’s always hope for next time, because Alex is a guy who never runs out of ideas. 694 N Milwaukee Ave, 312-492-6620.—David Tamarkin

Critics’ Picks: Promo King | The Please Don’t Go Award | Most Unpretentious Pretentious Bar | The Best Way to Use Your Noodle Award | Biggest twits | The Comeback Kid | The Urban Oasis Award | The Lifetime Achievement Award | Best Elbow Rubbing | Best Place to Ogle Women | The Bigfoot Award | We’d like to thank the economy | Proof That Evolution Exists | A Blog-o You Can Trust | Recession-era reads | The Viagra Award for Staying Power | Best Revival Act | Thanks for the memories | Best Extra Value Meal