Upon ascending the weathered yet proud staircase, you are immediately greeted by the charming and scrupulous maitre'd Jay, who will give you a certain nod that seems to convey the message:
"Welcome. It is cold outside. Let me take your jacket sir, and seat you at our best table this evening."
Ask for Doug when seated, and he will pour over the wine list with you at length, hand-selecting the finest liquor or special drink catered to your unique taste.
Or perhaps take a seat at their bar in the lounge while waiting for the rest of your party to arrive. The bartender, Ruthie, watches all patrons with a sharply discerning eye. Her engagement with you should be taken as a personal commentary on your civility and if you pass muster, she will regale you with witty banter and awe you with her knowledge, from handcrafted beers to medical oddities.
While their bathroom is lacking in attendants, you will certainly revel in their edgy and controversial art gallery included therein. When you return to your seat afterwards, start a conversation about the motifs of urban renewal, gentrification, and gender roles in modern society that the bathroom artwork displayed.
Perhaps play a game of billiards against the many and varied local players. It is a time-honored hobby and magnificent form of entertainment not be blinked at. If unskilled, simply engaging as a bystander will enthrall you. If you choose to challenge the hardened veterans, beware, for they are masters at their craft, but are still gracious and humble in every victory.
I have been privileged to enjoy the brilliance and reserved luxury of Top's on many an occasion, and will continue to do so as long as I have but two dollars and sixty cents in my pocket and a guarded sense of self-worth in my soul. read more