Sunday,
5/27/07
A native Liverpudlian friend back in New York, Paul McD, had spoken very highly of the Phil and recommended that I make the pilgrimage. He especially raved about the men's room and its handsome marble urinals. Since the Phil is only a mere 222 metres away from Ye Cracke, Chris and Olga were happy to oblige.
Now this was one classy joint! Located across the corner from Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall, The Phil has the look and feel of an old gentlemen's club. There were a couple of snugs, but we opted for the Grand Lounge, with its graceful chandeliers, stained-glass skylights and windows, and wooden wainscotting with copper inlays. The room could have been overwhelming; instead, it was surprisingly comfortable.
As I recall—and memory gets admittedly fuzzy at this point—I had a Cain's Bitter Ale, a fine local brew. During five days in Liverpool, I sampled many brews, and with the exception of a bottle of Newcastle Brown Ale at Chris's house, I had nothing but hand-drawn cask ales. Life is good.
The loo did not disappoint. Not only beautiful, but beautifully functional as well. The tile work was all that it was cracked up to be and more. An all 'round classy joint!
