Interesting choice for a celeb guest

So The Joynt (650 N. Dearborn St., 312-573-2233) is hosting a "sneak peek" party Thursday, and they've picked a mighty curious headliner to help launch the club.

Early 1990s comic star Joe Piscopo is listed as their very special guest along with "Sopranos" star Federico Castelluccio.

The nightclub and piano bar is from the guys behind the Jilly's (1007 N. Rush St., 312-664-1001) brand, and the event includes cocktails and apps from 5 to 8pm. RSVP to rsvp@thejoyntchicago.com if you want in.

It's about damn time

I was waiting for the shit to hit the fan! Read info on the lawsuit filed by LA's Roscoe Chicken 'N Waffles here over the new Rosscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles in Bronzeville.

Sneeky 'Top Chef' party and more

Be one of the first people in the country to see tonight's "Top Chef" episode at Jake Melnicks Corner Tap (41 E. Superior St., 312-266-0400) during the Top Chef Gala Sneek Preview. The party benefits Meals on Wheels Chicago's annual Celebrity Chef Gala, which happens this fall.

Apparently, the producers from "Top Chef" taped an episode at last year's event and sent an advance DVD copy to the Meals on Wheels folks. Sooooo, they're going to take advantage of the situation and show it a few hours ahead. Enjoy the episode and root for local homegirl Stephanie Izard as you chow down on complimentary appetizers and drink booze courtesy of Beam Liquors. 6-9pm. $15.


Also going down tonight is the He Said Beer, She Said Wine booksigning and tasting event at Lush Wine and Spirits (1306 S. Halsted St., 312-738-1900). Dogfish Head brewmaster Sam Calagione and Marnie Old, the director of wine studies at NYC French Culinary Institute, square off as they promote their new book "He Said Beer, She Said Wine," and Lush pits beer against wine with food pairings. Space limited; event free. 7-9pm.

And indulge in the $23 five-course tasting menu at Swirl Wine Bar (111 W. Hubbard St., 312-828-9000). Executive Chef Luis Sanchez whips up different dishes using seasonal ingredients every week. Two guests minimum per table. Also happening every Wednesday at Swirl is Wine & Shes, as groups of female patrons are treated to a complimentary platter of cheese when they order a bottle of wine. One cheese plate per bottle.