Hydroalkylating Process Comprising an Activation of the Hydroalkylation Catalyst and Method of Making Phenol and Cyclohexanone

Disclosed is a hydroalkylation process in which the hydroalkylation catalyst is activated in the presence of a flowing fluid comprising hydrogen and a condensable agent. The presence of the condensable agent enables fast, effective activation of the hydroalkylation catalyst precursor in a cost-effective manner. It also yields superior catalyst performance.