different experience, but ended up pleased with some good food. okay, i have lived in san francisco for a number of years and i love chinese food. my experience has ranged from some really bad places to some great restaurants offering excellent selections and exceptional service. looking for a good chinese place in fargo seemed unlikely, but lucy's - with their high rating - got my attention.
when we pulled up front, however, i had some real concerns about this place. non-impressive, low-key. then, we walked in and there was this sign that says, "take a menu and seat yourself." okay.
then, we sat there wondering if someone was going to come by and take our order. waited, waited until i realized that i would have to go up to the front counter and place the order there and then pay for it upfront. that was different - kind of like a fast-food experience. i did not provide a tip on the credit card because i first wanted to see if the food was good. so . . .
the order was processed quickly with the appetizer (starter) coming out with everything else. at first glance, i was not too impressed, but we both ate the selections (sweet and sour chicken, moo shu pork, and pepper steak) and found the food had a good flavor that made up for the lack of any visual appeal. the only item that seemed a little dry was the fried rice special (chicken, beef and shrimp).
all and all, the initial experience was a little odd, but the food was good. so, they earned a small tip for the food, but not a 20% for the lack of service. a 3/5 rating and a "may come back" vote for lucy's.