Don't extinguish the Red Lantern restaurant just yet. The recently closed West Park neighborhood staple for over 27 years will soon be brought back to life.
Cory Rowland and Eric and Sean Nugent, current owners of the popular Two Bucks group, have purchased the location (17439 Lorain Ave.). But don't plan on another Two Bucks going in there.
"We are re-branding the space and calling it The Red Lantern Kitchen and Bar," says Rowland. Their plans are for a contemporary restaurant and bar with a good selection of craft beers and signature cocktails. Two Bucks executive chef Brian McNeff and a soon-to-be-added chef will design the menu. "From concept to food we are drawing our inspiration from trendy spots in Tremont and Ohio City along with gastro pubs on the west side."
Trendy aside, chef McNeff is committed to tradition and promises to recreate his own rendition of the original Red Lantern's famous fish fry.
The announcement is music to the ears of Steve Lorenz, executive director of Kamms Corner Development Corporation. "We are thrilled that the Red Lantern legacy continues with a fresh face," he says.
The new spot will be open from 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. seven days a week. Look for a mid to late summer opening.
Speaking of Two Bucks: The group with locations in Avon, Middleburg Hts., and N. Olmsted also announced a fourth location for the popular food and spirits concept. They have executed a lease in Golden Gate Plaza in Mayfield Heights.
"We are excited to bring the Two Bucks brand to Mayfield Heights as our first east side location," says Rowland. The restaurant and patio will take the space of the former Hurricane Grill, adjacent to TGIF. Look for a mid to late summer opening.
