Bar blocks cellphones to spark talking

LONDON -- A new English cocktail bar offers something old-fashioned on its menu: the chance to talk to real people instead of staring at your cell phone. The Gin Tub in Brighton has won rave reviews in its first week by installing a cell-signal blocker and placing throwback rotary phones at its tables. They can be used to dial patrons at neighboring tables or the bar for another round. Proprietor Steve Tyler said: "Mobile phones have killed pubs. When you go out socially, you don't need social media."