I grew up going to Gene's, and now I'm finally old enough to say that I'm not terribly crazy about it. It has some nice features -- I can always rely on them for pancakes and other breakfast food, and for some reason I recall having a fondness for their chili as a child -- but it's pretty average, and has a lot of unhealthy options on their menu.
Yes, the piano player is charming, as is the decor. I think I've just been going there too long to appreciate its novelty anymore.