The Bullpen

Located several blocks south of Brooklawn Park, on Acushnet Avenue, the Bullpen is an old North End institution. Pearly Baker, a well-known band that covers the Grateful Dead, the Rolling Stones, the Allman Brothers and other 60's rockers, has played there every Tuesday night for over sixteen years, making them an institution, of sorts, as well. But, the Barflies visited on a Wednesday night, and the pub was subdued. Except for the bartender, Rob. He was a big man with a big belly and big laugh and he went by the nickname "Big Sexy, " given to him by one of his regular customers. (Mr. Draft agrees with the "Big" half of the nickname, but will leave it to others to judge the "Sexy" part.) Mr. Mix ordered a White Russian, as Big Sexy asked him to "keep it simple", and the Russian kicked like Nureyev. The draft selection was lackluster, highlighting the usual suspects: Coors Light, Budweiser, Bud Light, and Mr. Draft's pick of the litter, Killian's. Big Sexy spoke enthusiastically about the Bullpen's Sunday brunch and about the sexual escapades of some of his lady customers (who, on the night of the visit, were noticeably absent.) The Bullpen is a bit rundown, but in a good comfortable way, like an old sofa, with a few stains and loose seams. Big Sexy has a big, sexy persona and a contagious laugh,which knocks this venerable old neighborhood institution up to 7-and-a-half. (Roll Call: Mr. Draft, Mr. Mix, Mr. Merlot)