After a year in the making, Southern Lights Bistro has now reopened on Lawndale, near Target. Chef and owner John Drees has tried to transfer the local, neighborhood feel of the former restaurant to the new one while adding a fresh face to the restaurant. The menu and waitstaff are similar enough that the vibes of the old place are, indeed, evoked. Enough changes have been made that people feel like they are experiencing something new and fresh. The outdoor dining area is an enjoyable addition.
As soon as the table of five finished eating and the table was cleared, we snaped the above photo inside the back of the restaurant. The five-paneled landscape, entitled Equinox, is by Lori Key. Southern Lights has a long history of supporting local artists. Good luck to John in this new endeavor. John is incredibly generous with his giving of time and goods to community causes. Let's hope in this economy, that quality, talent, and the effects of good karma will serve him well!
This is our contribution to the delightful, Weekend Reflection meme. By the way, with as many people as we had read the blog yesterday, we can't believe that our call for a good cup of coffee didn't elicit one suggestion!
What an original idea those red lights... The picture looks even greener ! Thanks for this inspiring sharing, and have a nice week-end...
Posted by: 'Tsuki | Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 09:53 AM
Looks like an elegant, lovely, scrumptious, artsy place! Wish I could stop in for coffee and treats!
Posted by: leif hagen | Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 10:44 AM
The paintings remind of Van Gogh but the decor of the chairs seems to clash with it - re your comment at Hyde DP - not sure about a "signature" spot but there are several places I return to from time to time.
Posted by: gerald | Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 03:59 PM
This looks very elegant...and big!
Posted by: Lesley | Saturday, September 11, 2010 at 04:08 PM
Support for local artists goes a long way to creating a community feel. We have a lot of that here. Looks inviting.
Posted by: tapirgal | Sunday, September 12, 2010 at 04:55 PM
Wow11111111.....what a surprise to see my artwork!!! thanks for the time and effort to showcase Southern Lights and this hugh piece created for that amazing space!!! Lori Key
Posted by: Lori Key | Monday, September 13, 2010 at 09:18 PM