Before I even took a look at the menu at PJ Clarke’s (915 3rd Avenue, New York), I went to check out the restrooms. Someone had told me I should, and they were right. It was odd and very saloon-like.

I sat down, and while people overran the bar area, the dining area wasn’t nearly as full. So I order their burger with cheese and decide not to go “The Cadillac” route (bacon & cheese).

Onions, though, are a different thing. The sides are a la carte (aka ordered separately). Instead of choosing fries, which were the obvious choice, I ordered the mashed potatoes w/ gravy.

PJ Clarke's Mashed Potatoes — Mashed Potatoes

The mashed potatoes were very creamy and buttery. The turkey gravy served with it does it no justice. The potatoes stood well on their own.

Just as my burger arrived, I saw someone receiving their french fry order at another table. The fries are served in a cylinder, and they seemed to have enjoyed their fries.

PJ Clarke's Burger — PJ Clarke’s The Clarke Burger

So, I’m looking at the burger, and my first thought is: Wow, this is a small burger!

It was a freshly-ground burger with a great fluffy bun, and while good, I didn’t find anything extraordinary about it. Now, that’s not to say it wasn’t good.

I expected a little more after everything I had read about PJ Clarke’s. Maybe I should have ordered The Cadillac?