Lucy, Lucy, Lucy, how could you do this to me?! I've passed by on the L many times, and even walked past a handful. Today, with an empty fridge, I stopped in. I was immediately drawn to the Signature Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich and the Golden Fries. Signed, sealed, delivered! I ordered them (plus a Cheerwine cherry cola.)
Regrettably, I was left disappointed at the quality, namely the freshness, of the food. I was going to leave a 3-star, but when I think about it, I don't really have any desire to return. While I'm not necessarily against trying one of the smash-burgers, the chicken was underwhelming enough that hopes aren't very high. Besides, I can't write a review based on what I *didn't* have, only what I did have.
So, let's talk about it.
The chicken had some crispness due to a robust crust, but at the same time felt like it was from under a lamp. While I would not call it dry, per se, it wasn't what I would call hot, juice, and tender either. I wouldn't even say it was moist. Though, I would not quite go as far as to say it was dry, as the Coleslaw and pickles helped a litte. What I can say is it felt notably bland. What was supposed to be a spicy piece of chicken seemed to lack both heat and seasoning. They do have hot sauce available, but this should be an option, and not a necessity. Last thing is re. the cheese: who made the decision to use a Kraft Single? For what is supposed to be fried chicken excellence, something which legally has to be called "cheese product" seems like a bad move. Five Guys can pull it off, but some long-time fans lament the melty, gooey, and wonderful cheese they used to have.
Then there were the fries. With these, I appreciate that they were seasoned appropriately, and that they were clearly hand-cut, and not from a frozen bag. I am also very fond of the vampire slaying garlic aioli which one can help themselves to. Where it comes to the huge portion, I am of two opinions: if you are coming with a friend or have a massive appetite, then fair enough. However, as one person with an average appetite who had plans after, I had to carry the doggy bag with me. It wasn't a barbell, but it still feel like that large a portion is unnecessary. Now, where my complaint lies is similar to the sandwich: the fries tasted like they had spent some quality time under a lamp.
Finally, I appreciate that Lucy's had fast service, however, it seems this speed comes at the cost of quality. Fast food places can crank out chicken sandwiches like nobody's business, yet with them there is an expectation that chicken won't be cooked to order. With a cool and hip place like Lucy's, especially given the award(s) they've won, this strategy seems inappropriate. I'd also like to call out Dave's Hot Chicken - in my experience while the chicken may not be cooked fresh for each customer, it has always been hot, well seasoned, and moist. Thus, this is something that can be achieved.
In a case where I feel as though I've had better chicken sandwiches from Dave's, Hot Chi, and even Popeye's, Lucy's missed the mark. Looking at the photos from other Yelpers, it is tempting to give them another shot, and it is not impossible. However, I would sooner go to either a tried and tested favorite, or someplace new rather than some here and risk disappointment once again.