Phil Olson
Phil Olson was born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. He moved to Chicago in 2005, where he wet his feet in the Chicago hospitality scene at downtown Irish pub Poag Mahones. He moved to Longman & Eagle in 2011, where he quickly moved up the ranks from brunch bartender to bar manager, overseeing and building the restaurant’s extensive cocktail and whiskey program. In early 2016, Phil’s role expanded to General Manager, overseeing the bar, restaurant, and inn. His passion for bourbon is evident in Longman’s cocktail program, which always features a wide variety on the menu. It also extends to the rare whiskey program helmed by Phil, which he has built to include over 100 rare and vintage spirits. Under Phil’s stewardship, Longman has maintained not only it’s stellar reputation for food, but is recognized throughout the industry as one of the premier bourbon bars in the U.S.
Phil’s interest in all things bourbon was ignited on a trip to Kentucky with his wife in 2010. That interest quickly became an obsession as Phil sought to learn everything he could about American whiskey both professionally and personally. Phil was always a Maker’s Mark fan, but after participating in Private Select with Longman in early 2016, he became obsessed, so when the opportunity to join the team presented itself, Phil jumped at the chance.
Phil currently resides in Chicago, with his wonderful wife Jannah and their two daughters, Eleanor and Ray. When he’s not enjoying some bourbon, he’s often exploring Chicago’s parks, beaches and museums with his family. An avid basketball fan, he still roots for his hometown Boston Celtics even after being in Chicago so long.