St. Andrews

Pining over the scotch that never was

St. Andrews (120 W. 44th St, NYC) is an authentic Scottish pub complete with prerequisite Golf paraphernalia, vintage photos, flags and a cute staff in tartan plaid. It is most certainly a haven in the clamber and clutter that is the Times Square norm.

Cozy, friendly and all the other things that make a good pub are here as well. What really sets this place apart though is the beer and scotch library. I was literally getting dizzy trying to get thru the massive scotch list. Prices ranged from the 'not bad' to the 'holy shit' and everywhere in between.

I decided to have a beer. Though extensive, that list was more manageable. Never passing up the opportunity to flirt with a pretty waitress in a plaid skirt, I asked for her recommendations. She said, "The Belhaven Wee Heavy is the darkest, but still a bit sweet," in an accent that is really only sexy on a woman.

I said, "I'll have that. It sounds both cute and scary." She said, "Oh it can be a bit scary, it's a 9%'er." In other words, over twice the alcohol of a Guinness. Then she smiled a mischievous smile. After just two pints, I felt those extra percentage points kick in. After all, I'd had two pints of Guinness prior to my arrival here.

Thank goodness we skipped the scotch tonight, but I still pined quietly for a taste. Perhaps a scotch tasting night is in order … soon.