Bar’s Front Door Sign ‘Sparks Outrage’, Manager Claims It’s ‘Increased Business’
Victor Fiorillo, while seeking a night out for a drink, chose to visit the Old Philadelphia Bar, a well-known establishment in the City of Brotherly Love. He was in search of a beer and pleasant company; however, upon noticing a sign displayed in the window, he hesitated momentarily. Despite this, he entered the bar and expressed his patronage by purchasing a beer, at which point a man made an announcement loud enough for everyone to hear.
The man approached the jukebox, and before inserting a coin to play music, he proclaimed himself a former firefighter and identified as Mexican, adding humorously that the latter was merely a jest. After selecting the 1984 hit “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood, the song began to play, and soon the entire bar joined in singing the chorus. This bar has been a beloved fixture in its Philadelphia neighborhood for many years, though the sign is a recent addition intended to inform patrons of the patriotic atmosphere awaiting them inside.
The establishment has retained many traditional features from its earlier days, including affordable $1.50 pints of domestic beer. During televised sporting events, patrons can enjoy a beer for just $1, making it an exceptional deal.
The bar takes pride in being free from hipster influence, targeting “real men” rather than the yuppies and professionals who are perceived to be encroaching upon the neighborhood and diminishing its character.
One Google review encapsulated the sentiment succinctly: “Not overrun with hipster douchebags. And even if you do see some hipster douche McDouchebags, they know to keep their abject stupidity to themselves.”
When a passerby observed the sign on the door, they captured a photograph and shared it in a local Philadelphia Facebook group, which sparked a wave of outrage as individuals expressed disbelief that the bar would promote such values.Residents express apprehension regarding the bar, particularly if they do not identify as white men. A woman from Fairmount is aware of the establishment known as “Old Philly” and has stated that she would refrain from visiting due to her relationship with an Indian man who has a beard.
“I would steer clear of that place,” she remarked to Victor Fiorillo. “Generally, it’s acceptable. However, there are instances when certain venues are less welcoming. This is evident from that sign.”
The bar manager appears to be perplexed by the concerns raised. A bartender conveyed to Fiorillo, “If you reside in this county, you ought to take pride in being an American.”
What is your opinion on the sign?
Sources: Philly Mag.
