Learning How To Drive, by Suzanne Vega

Suzanne Vega; Photo - NY Times Suzanne Vega writes in today's Times' City section, about how at age 43, she finally is going after her driver's license. Like many city folk, there's no need for a license, unless you really want a driver's license for ID purposes. Vega's essay is a great look at her Morningside Heights neighborhood (or SoHa - south of Harlem - haha) and the peculiarities of taking driving lessons in New York. Gothamist likes how one instructors says Vega needs to "observate."

Of course, Suzanne famously immortalized Tom's Restaurant at West 112th and Broadway first, pre-Seinfeld (where it was "Monk's"), in her song, Tom's Diner. Yes, "Do do do do do/ I am sitting/ In the morning/ At the diner/ On the corner." During our college years, Gothamist was obsessed with Tom's, getting the big salad, asking for the Broadway... good times.

The official Suzanne Vega website and information on getting your New York State Driver's license.

Contact the author of this article or email tips@gothamist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Jen Chung in Arts & Entertainment on August 25, 2003 4:34 PM

Comments [rss]

Sten76520

retty much nothing seems worth thinking about. My life's been completely dull , not that it matters. I've just been staying at home waiting for something to happen.

Jen

Okay, in the grand scheme of things, there are many Toms who own diners and restaurants and might name them after themselves. Suzanne Vega lived in the Morningside Heights area and frequented Tom's Restaurant. According to this FAQ, Tom's Diner is Tom's Restaurant. That said, I'm sure many Tom's Diners contacted Suzanne to work the synergy. Oh, and check this out: Straight from Suzanne - it IS Tom's Restaurant on West 112th.

amy

hmm I wonder:

why there's a copy of the song signed by Suzanne Vega at the "Tom's Diner" in Prospect Heights?

Jen

Nope, it's Tom's on West 112th. That's her old neighborhood.

Also, Garth, I know a few 26 year olds who have their learner's permits still, so you have time.