The ‘Golden Girls’ Cafe Opens In Washington Heights

At last, the long-awaited Golden Girls-themed cafe has (soft) opened in Washington Heights. Rue La Rue Café owner Michael J. LaRue told us today he’s serving up breakfast and lunch on a limited schedule right now, and hopes to debut dinner service soon.

LaRue, who was best friends with the late Blanche Devereaux-portrayer Rue McClanahan, says the new eatery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., as a trial run of sorts. “It’s just to give the staff a chance to practice,” LaRue told Gothamist. “As soon as I’m confident we’re ready, we’ll set dinner hours as well.” LaRue says that despite the clipped hours, “we were packed Saturday and Sunday,” with patrons sampling recipes from McClanahan’s personal collection as well as dishes Golden Girls fans may remember from the show (cheesecake!)

One of Rue La Rue Café’s biggest expected draws is its collection of memorabilia—LaRue inherited McClanahan’s personal belongings and show business gear after she died in 2010, which he stores in Corona, Queens. Selections of her stuff will be on display. “I have a whole warehouse going to keep rotating memorabilia and costumes, forever,” LaRue said.

Rue La Rue Cafe, 4396 Broadway in Washington Heights, New York, www.ruelaruecafe.com