This place opened just last Monday and, as indicated from the lunch time crowd, people are hearing about it. Upon entry, we found ourselves in the bakery and noticed it was empty of goods. Upon questioning, we were informed that the bakery would officially open next Tuesday (5/31). The hostess station was just to our left and we were promptly seated, after being asked if we lived in the neighborhood. Alas no (is it still okay that we're here?).
The narrow restaurant space has ten stools along the street window, three tables for two and two for four located along the far wall.The opposite wall shared by the bakery contains a window between the two spaces and ends in the open kitchen, which is surrounded by an L-shaped counter. Filling in the space are about ten flexible tables for four.
Decor is clean and minimal with the light colors seeming to perfectly suit this cheery breakfast/lunch place. The only piece of decor/signage we didn't like was the restroom locator sign, asking if we "Need to Tinkle." Everything else is very tasteful. Our server appeared quickly and after giving us menus, asked us if we were from the area. Again, alas no.
We were thrilled with the diverse and interesting menu ~ this is no "Real Food" menu (no offense to Real Food lovers). (But don't fear that you can't get a standard breakfast ~ you even have the option to build your own breakfast.) Our first order was Chorizo and Crawfish Etouffee, with an over easy egg. The last time I had Etouffee was in New Orleans, and this dish did not disappoint. Crawfish, chorizo, celery, onion, red pepper, and tomato, in all its buttery deliciousness, was served over basmati rice, and topped by the egg.
Our next dish was Cheesy Grits with Sausage Ragout, also topped with the optional egg, this time poached. Slightly sweet overall, blue corn grits were melded nicely with ricotta cheese and the spicy breakfast sausage with bell pepper and onions. The side of bacon didn't fare as well. We like it crisp but we could taste the burn on these that apparently got away from the cook.
These lovely terrariums were on every table, just more evidence of the care that has gone into this restaurant. And the entire staff is friendly, informative, and efficient.
There are narrow windows leading into the next space over, which will be turned into their next venture, Brighton Graye's Bistro. We could see work going on in there, a staircase leading up, and furniture boxes galore. We were told it would be opening in about a month.
It looks like an outdoor patio is also in the making, which will make everyone in Grand Rapids very happy due to our short season of nice weather.
This latest venture of L & B Portfolio (Graydon's Crossing, Logan's Alley, Derby Station) has really provided a great addition to the neighborhood and eliminated an unused, vacant building. Neighbors (and others who'd like to drive over, thank you very much) can enjoy coffee and baked goods to go, dine in for breakfast or lunch, or have dinner in what we assume will be a lovely place next month. We'll be back to check them out and to try more items from Little Lucy's menu.
Find them on facebook and on their website: www.littlelucycafe.com
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