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Todd Graves gives away lemonade downtown while lending an ear to his dog, for whom his restaurants are named.

Best restaurant owner

TODD GRAVES OF RAISING CANE’S

Founder Todd Graves schlepped fish in Alaska years ago to save enough money to open the first Raising Cane’s, which he named after his dog. The business revolves around fried chicken fingers, but Graves has hooked a generation on the zesty sauce. With charisma and drive he’s opened 60 locations nationwide, yet the corporate culture remains inclusive and fun.

Mayor Kip Holden, the best-dressed man ever to set foot on a tugboat.

Best-dressed politician

MAYOR-PRESIDENT KIP HOLDEN

With his crisp dark suits and trademark pocket squares, hizzoner is always a picture of sartorial expression. Even in casual garb he occasionally dons for charity events or natural disaster-related news conferences, the mayor maintains an air of composure and debonair that bespeaks his inherent fashion sense.

TV reporter

ANDREA CLESI

Andrea Clesi with her most important fan, Kirby.

She’s got a no-nonsense demeanor and a proven track record after nearly 30 years on the air. But WBRZ’s 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. anchor combines her hard-news nose with a picture-perfect smile and charming delivery that’s all girl next door.

Best place to meet people (excluding bars)

LSU GAMEDAY

What could ease a social situation more than food, booze and LSU sports? Instead of hoping to meet a quality individual by chance or by barhopping, head over to a friend’s tailgate party. Not only will you meet friends of friends, but you also have one definite talking point. The possibilities are endless and, more than likely, a lot less awkward.

Most eligible bachelor

MIKE WAMPOLD

He’s tall, dark, and handsome—and very successful. Everything a mother-in-law would want. Baton Rouge’s most dashing developer is fit and trim, bleeds purple and gold, and spends his leisure time pursuing hobbies like snow skiing and big-game hunting. He’s been voted the best catch in town, and at 53 is still very much out there.

Best place to pop the question

TSUNAMI

Romance climbs the elevator to the sixth floor of the Shaw Center and floats right out the balcony at this Japanese restaurant. With help from the spectacular view of the Mississippi River and warm lighting, Tsunami sets the mood. Boyfriends beware! Before you know it, you’ll be committing to more than the bill. 100 Lafayette St., 346-5100, servingsushi.com

They may look like they're working, but these CC's patrons are listening for scoops.

Best place to eavesdrop for gossip

CC’S COFFEE

The trademark cherry floors and warm lighting create a cozy ambience that positively beckons patrons to loosen up, and because nothing gets the lips flapping faster than a super-grande mocha latte, CC’s is where juicy Baton Rouge chit-chat goes down. Plus, everybody goes there, so you’re bound to get an earful. ccscoffee.com