Not really that bad -- warm up the engine in neutral so it's easy to start. Shut off, put in first, start up and get rolling. Then drive slowly in first so you block everyone in back, and can have enough distance in front of you to be able to "time" the traffic lights. I only needed to stall the car two or three times. Actually, NYC was probably easier than the 'burbs, since I could get away with keeping it under 25 and didn't need to shift.

As to how the mechanic did it, apparently it needs a new master cylinder, so he's replacing and bleeding it. I should have it back by Monday, or something. No rush since I don't need the car this weekend.