We were walking by what was the old Harlem Pizza and were pleasantly surprised to find a new French Bistro has opened up! Prices look very reasonable (nothing was over $20 on the menu) and the owner said the menu will be expanding soon to offer more dishes.
Let's try to support this new establishment - a rare occurence in these times!
http://www3.timeoutny.com/newyork/the-feed-blog/restaurants-bars/2009/02/the-feed-openings-chez-lucienne-whiskey-sunday-defontes-and-more/
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My family tried Chez Lucienne today for brunch. We often try to patronize new establishments in the Harlem neighborhood as a way of showing our support. But our experience has lead us to the conclusion that this is not an business we would support as parent. We were offended by not only the poor service but rude service by a middle aged white waiter. We are a family of color. After waiting sometime for service (my husband called the waiter repeatedly saying we were ready to be served, instead the waiter went to provide service to another table), we were annoyed but excused it as a busy Sunday late morning. Finally, when the waiter came, I asked if they had pancakes for my 5 year old since they did have french toast.
ReplyDeleteThe waiter snidely responded "no" and continued to add that "We (referring to my husband and myself) should educate our child." This was said in front of our son. We were shocked and puzzled at where this comment from coming from. At that point, we decided to leave the restaurant because we had barely ordered and did not want to patronize a place where the staff was so noticeably rude to our family. Hearing the incident the owner Jerome came out and offered an apology. For us, the damage of rude behavior towards our son and family had been done. Jerome offered a meal and insisted that we come back later as a gesture of his apology. Instead, we told him that if he was truly to offer an apology - save the free meal - and train his staff on diversity and sensitivity training. He promised us that he will since he personally trains all staff. Once he demonstrates that this is done, then, we will consider repatronizing the store. We will not patronize the restaurant (and sad because I work on 125th Street) until there is some demonstrable change in their staffing. You expressed that you liked the place. If you do patronize the restaurant, I hope you ask for Jerome and hold him to his promise to make sure his staff goes through sensitivity and diversity training. If customers don't hold establishments that are newcomers to treat their neighbors/customers with respect, then, no one will.