they also may have a little bit of an imaging problem. it sounds like everyone here is raving about their Mexican-style dishes, but they're putting forth "American and Mexican." and the place, while sparkling clean, doesn't have a lot of curb appeal in terms of visuals. it *looks* strictly coffee shop. maybe a bit of decor would help?
Definitely. Laly's has the same problem sP!Lt Mi'lk had. No one can tell what it is.
1. Most of the menu hovers somewhere between diner and trendy american restaurant
2. But most diners and American restaurants aren't called "Laly's."
3. It looks like a diner inside but they are missing a lot of diner food. This isn't a diner.
4. Authenticity is popular now. And when you have a restaurant with a few Mexican items on the menu, a Spanish-sounding name, but the food is mostly "trendy" american food, unfortunately I think some people are going to question the authenticity.
Let's contrast Laly's with the Queensboro. The Queensboro is unquestionably an "American restaurant." How can we tell?
1. It has an American-sounding name
2. The decor is similar to other American restaurants
3. The food is all the type that's served at other American restaurants and it's all of a similar quality (opposed to how Laly's offers Buffalo Wings and a Kale Salad on the same menu)
I think if Laly's re-branded right now they would have a great chance:
1. Choose what cuisine you're going to be: American, Mexican or diner
2. Change the name (and sign) unless you choose Mexican
3. Redo the menu to be all one type of food
4. Change the decor if possible
Good luck