Salomon W.
Yelp
Duke Ellington arranged a song his son Mercer wrote, which became a standard for the Orchestra: "Things ain't what they used to be." That sums up my impression of this restaurant. For many years I went to the original Sweet Sue's. Over that time the chef in the kitchen changed, but the food remained consistently great. About two years ago, Sue closed the pancake parlor, then sold it. I was one of a legion of fans who eagerly awaited its reopening. I expected change, of course. When it reopened, I was one of a multitude grateful to see it reopen. I went there the day it opened, and bought a chicken sandwich and a coffee, and was underwhelmed: expensive prices are okay, but if you charge a premium price, you have to deliver a premium product. Twenty bucks for a decent sandwich and a cup of coffee is too much. But I remained eager to see breakfast served again; that was where Sue earned her chops. I had breakfast there today, and I am very disappointed. The prices remain high, the product remains mediocre. I really want to give two and a half stars, but Yelp doesn't allow half stars. I give three instead of two because I remain optimistic the food will improve, but I have my doubts. As a jazz aficionado, I approve of improvisation and change. I welcome change. But if you improvise, you got to deliver the goods; otherwise, why bother? If you can't do better than the master, follow the master's recipe. What really matters is the product, not the artist (or the chef). I am really disappointed. I'll go back, of course, but I can't recommend this joint. Things ain't what they used to be.