Capitol Fax.com - Your Illinois News Radar

Question of the day: Golden Horseshoe Awards

Posted in:

Illinois

* The 2019 Golden Horseshoe Award for Best Springfield Political Bar goes to a relative newcomer…

Buzz Bomb. Yes, not one usually thought of, but the folks at BB host a bunch of political events and you’ll find staff, lobbyists, and members there on session nights. Also, great beer.

They’re also pretty cool people.

* The 2019 Golden Horseshoe Award for Best Springfield Political Restaurant goes to what I would call a non-traditional establishment because it’s not open at night except for events…

Cafe Moxo. Just sit there on a session morning between 7-10 AM. You will see a parade of staffers, lawmakers, lobbyists and people working in and at the Statehouse. They don’t just pop in, there are lots of meetings that take place there between 1-2 people and groups preparing for a day at the Statehouse. And the food is great.

That nomination just stopped me in my tracks. It’s spot-on.

* On to today’s categories…

* Best Springfield bartender

* Best Springfield waitstaff/kitchen staff

As always, try to nominate in both categories and explain your votes. This isn’t about the number of votes, it’s about why you are voting this way.

posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 12:42 pm

Comments

* Best Springfield bartender - Jeremy @ Maldener’s. Man knows how to make a mean martini whether you are looking for something sweet or dirty.

* Best Springfield waitstaff/kitchen staff - Augie’s Front Burner. Their waitstaff/kitchen go above and beyond to accommodate session types including staying open late for food and/or drinks.

Comment by MakePoliticsCoolAgain Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 2:05 pm
Please provide names. And, wow, is this slow today.

Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 2:13 pm
Bartender: Marcie at Boones continues to be the most attentive and quick on your feet bartender. Boones can be a manic hellscape during session, and she handles the crowds and pushy clients with class.

Staff: Saputo’s waitstaff make up for it’s underwhelming “Italian” food. Without them the place is basically a Fazoli’s.

Comment by Sleeper Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 2:58 pm
“And, wow, is this a slow today”. We got the Wordslinger’s Blues

Comment by Sayitaintso Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 2:59 pm
Bartender: Marcie and Rachel at Boones are the best in town and somehow manage to deal with a manic and needy post session rush of legislators, lobbyist, and staffers that are very thirsty. Plus they know what I want to drink without asking.

Best Springfield waitstaff/kitchen staff - Augie’s Front Burner- The food is excellent with a changing menu and the staff is always attentive.

Comment by Leatherneck Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 3:26 pm
Best waitstaff: Saputo’s - specifically Chris. I’m just a nobody who loves the dirty martinis and cheese raviolis topped with sausage. She always remembers my order, keeps up with the busy waves without neglecting anyone, and has a general demeanor of “I’m nice and good at my job, but not overly impressed” with what I see pass through this restaurant on session nights. And I just think we can all learn from that. I really enjoy her, she makes guests feel comfortable and welcome and never rushes her tables, no matter how busy the night is.

And I’m sorry, I don’t have a favorite bartender. Whoever makes the dirty martinis at Saputo’s I guess.

Comment by The Most Anonymous Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 3:27 pm
Best Bartender - Sydney at Buzz Bomb Brewing. She’s quick on the tap, helps pair new customers with a beer they’ll like (great when introducing business guests to the place), knows what regulars want & keeps a watchful eye to make sure no one ever runs dry. What more could you want in a bar keep?

Server - Krystle at Maldaners. She’s been there long enough to know who’s who and what they’ll want. Delivers service with a good attitude regardless of how busy the night is, and makes a good impression on your guests. Very helpful when dining with statehouse types.

Comment by SKI Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 3:56 pm
I second Marcy and Rachel at Boone’s for Best Bartender. Those ladies have been doing it for years and they never cease to amaze with their kindness and hard work. There is not nearly enough recognition for the kind of dedication they have and share with Statehouse folks year over year. Props!

Comment by Jack Kemp Tuesday, Dec 3, 19 @ 5:21 pm