179537 Mon Nov 04 15:41:27 -0800 2002 1 15 Pennsylvania 0 965367 Had a chance to stop in the newly opened Royal Tavern in Bella Vista on Friday night, so I figured I'd give a brief run-down on the joint. Located on Passyunk just below Christian, it's run by three partners, one of whom (Steve Simon) owns the Khyber in Old City. Menu features some high-end pub fare and about 6 good draught beers (Hefeweizen, Yards ESA, Guinness, etc.) along with a number of bottled specialties. Decor is very reminiscent of Northern Liberties' Standard Tap - dark wood, low lights - as is the menu. I had a nice bowl of lentil lamb stew - perfect for the unseasonably cold weather - while my fiance tried the grilled veggie sandwich. Looked to be a great jukebox, too, and for those quavering at the thought, it was not at an unreasonable volume. I think it's only open for dinner at this point.... Mon Nov 04 15:41:27 -0800 2002 0 Evan 1 965499 I finally stopped in yesterday and had a *wonderful* experience. I had the same lentil lamb stew and there is obviously someone in the kitchen who knows -- and cares about -- what he's doing. (I'm told that the chef actually used to be at Standard Tap? But I'm not sure). And it's cheap. And they have Yuengling Black and Tan on tap, and Samuel Smith's Nut Brown Ale in bottles (two of my absolute favorites). It was $22 for two beers, my lentil stew ($8), and a burger with fries. The jukebox looked interesting, and the waitstaff was incredibly friendly (if in need of a little prompting once in a while -- he forgot my beer, and we actually had to walk up to him to get the check, because he was talking to his buddies). But I didn't mind because the atmosphere was so nice overall. It's great to have a choice in the area besides the low bar. Allie Mon Nov 11 11:56:45 -0800 2002 965367 0 Allie D'Augustine