‘Wine Enthusiast’ Honors Two Chicago Bar Pros + More Intel

— Wine Enthusiast has named The Publican’s beer director, Adam Vavrick, and The Gage’s corporate beverage director Jon McDaniel to its “40 Under 40.” It’s a rarity for a beer professional to be named to the wine-centric list. The publication described the 34-year-old Vavrick as “the beer nerd’s beer nerd.” So what’s it like to infiltrate a wine list?: “Honestly I feel vindicated,” Vavrick told Eater Chicago. “The last 10 years or so of my life have been dedicated to elevating beer. It's such an enjoyable beverage, and there's so many styles to explore. It doesn't have to be daunting, but it should be fun.” Meanwhile, McDaniel, also 34, has been an ambassador for Chicago’s wine community. Oh, sorry, the magazine called him the city’s “sombassador.” He pointed out that the list featured more cider and beer people than in year’s past.

— It took 76 years, but Gene & Georgetti in River North has launched a Saturday brunch for the first time, according to a news release, in the steakhouse’s history. Dishes include frittatas, omelets, and a pepper and egg sandwich. Service goes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, and reservations can be made online or by calling (312) 527-3718.

— An employee at Blaze Pizza in Lakeview was beaten by an armed robber around 6:30 a.m. on Monday at the quick-serve restaurant, 953 W. Belmont Ave. Crime in Wrigleyville + Boystown reported the employee was ordered to open a safe. Police are searching for the suspect. There wasn’t a description of the victim’s injuries.

— Travel Channel’s Man v. Food made its rounds around Chicago, as the Tribune reported that the show made stops at Pequod’s Pizza in Lincoln Park, Silver Palm in West Town, and Timothy O’Toole’s Pub in Streeterville. The episode is set to air at 8:30 p.m on Monday.

— And finally, here’s some discounted food news. Stan’s Donuts is celebrating its 88th birthday on Saturday with a “sale.” Well, restaurants don’t use that word, but that’s what it is. Instead of paying $1.85 for a glazed doughnut, Stan’s is charging 88 cents on Saturday. The discount applies at all six of its locations.