"Just what the doctor ordered. Literally. Who has a great day that starts in a hospital waiting room in an unfamiliar city? Yeah. I don’t know of anybody either. I relied on a recommendation from a hospital employee for someplace to go for a good burger and a beer. Their answer? “Hands down, Hopcat. It’s real close. Just up Woodward.” That recommendation would change the course of the day. We arrived at Hopcat and were surprised to see a jam packed dining room. Weird, because the street was far from bustling. The Q Line and some light foot traffic were the only signs of life, 2:30pm on a brisk March Saturday. It had been a long day already and it was only 2:30. We just wanted to sit in a comfortable chair, have a bite and escape from fluorescent lighting and the smell of the hospital for a while. A loud and lively place may not have been my first choice. The hostess must have seen it in my eyes, because she immediately suggested being seated in the upstairs dining room, which was less full and considerably quieter. Perfect. Now, this is where I’ll describe the reason that prompted me to take the time to write this. Cee Cee, (as she insisted we call her) greeted us with a comforting smile and a great attitude. You know that feeling you get when you meet someone who truly loves what they do? Yeah, she had us at ‘Hello’. She was excited that we had not been to Hopcat before. Now, she can educate us on Hopcat’s countless brews, menu items and even ordering options. It was so natural for her. She was happy to school us newbies in Hopcat 101. She had personal suggestions and favorites. She knew everything. She knew things only the Chef should know. I could have listened to her for an hour. Not only because there was a lot to learn, but I also felt the stress of the day begin to fade. We ordered beers and dove into the menu. This took me some time. I’m not sure there was 1 entree, sandwich, wrap or stuffed burger I did NOT consider. Yup, I was torn. So, I ordered one of Cee Cee’s favorites. It did not disappoint. In fact, it was a hit at the table. Everyone had to sample. Thankfully for ample portions, I got my fill. We were actually having a good time with Cee Cee. Throughout the meal, we kind of forced her into conversation. We were open and personal. She shared priceless and entertaining anecdotes on family, parenting and humanity. In the end, we learned this. Cee Cee is a fantastic server, a wonderful mother and an amazing woman. She deserves many more kudos than just my heartfelt thanks, a silly tip or these few words posted here. Thanks. Cee Cee, You rock. Pat, Nancy, Mike and Marlene"
