I like Phil's. It's a no fuss kinda place.
I stopped by here for a Saturday night dinner, and the place was busy, but we were still able to get a table without reservations no problem.
The ambiance is nice - very typical for that kind of place. Before going there I didn't know it had been on a restaurant makeover show, but having watched a few in my day, it really does look like it has had a professional makeover - the decor and the menu really reminded me of something you would see on a Gordan Ramsay show (post makeover, of course!).
The menu is small, which I appreciate - the main courses are ribs (large or small), chicken, pulled pork, or brisket - and you get to choose 2 of 4 sides (i obviously went with the fries and baked beans, unhealthy options are the best!).
I had the pulled pork, but I did get to try the ribs, and I REALLY wish I had got them. The pulled pork was great, but ribs are just... so much better. The fries were nothing special, but the baked beans were AWESOME! There was some kind of meat baked in - maybe pork - which meant that every few bites were extra delicious.
My only real complaint about this place is the drink selection - since my options were limited to 4 beers, I went with water. I'd love to see some craft beers show up here!
Overall, my first new neighbourhood experience was a good one, thanks to Phil's!