Mostly, though, it was just an excuse to get tastefully sloshed on top-shelf rum at bargain prices -- a smart variation on traditional TGIFing that includes friendly instruction, mucho Mojitos, a take-home packet of rum recipes and lore, an official Mojito muddler, heavy apps, and plenty of opportunities for small-group schmoozing -- all for $25. The 5 p.m. party will continue Friday evenings through mid-September, weather permitting. Valet parking is free. Enroll at 216-707-4053.
Turkish treat: Restaurateur Yashar Yildirim wants fans to know that Anatolia Café (13915 Cedar Road; 216-321-4400) is still open for business. True, the region's only Turkish restaurant is scheduled to relocate in mid-October to spacious new digs at 2268 Lee Road in Cleveland Heights, where Yildirim will oversee a 140-seat dining room, a private party room, and an 85-seat patio. But if diners don't continue supporting the original spot until moving day, "How will I pay for the new one?" the Istanbul native jokes -- sort of. So remember: Anatolia Café will remain open at its Cedar Road location for lunch and dinner daily, at least through early October; get moving-day updates at www.anatoliacafe.com.
Light lunch: Hot newbie Light Bistro (2801 Bridge Avenue, 216-771-7130) launched lunch service this week with a midday menu focused on gourmet burgers (sirloin, lamb, turkey, or Kobe beef), topped with anything from organic tomatoes and lettuce to pineapple or a fried egg. Besides the "make your own burger" bar ($8 and up), a lineup of "classic burger" combos includes the Forage Burger ($15), with fried leeks, truffled mayo, and Killbuck Valley mushrooms, and the Surf & Turf ($24), with Kobe beef, sautéed arugula, fresh basil, and grilled lobster.
Also on the menu: paninis like the Croque Madame (ham, Gruyère, and a fried egg, $9), salads such as the watermelon-and-grilled-shrimp combo ($11), and lunch-size entrées like pan-seared sturgeon ($16) and grilled Berkshire pork tenderloin ($14). Lunch is served 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday; reservations would be wise.
