Architect Joe Hanna's design work can be found in restaurants and buildings from the Gordon Square Arts District to downtown Cleveland and Shaker Square. As owner of the Caxton Cafe in the early 1990s, he claims to have pioneered the rebirth of the Gateway District.

Recently, Hanna has set his sights on the funky, independent-minded Larchmere district, where cozy antique shops nudge up against friendly taverns and hip new boutiques. Twenty years later, Hanna has returned to the restaurant business, this time in a charming house-turned-cafe smack in the middle of Larchmere.

Bon Vivant, a French bistro that opened earlier this month, occupies the former Vine and Bean and Cafe Limbo space at Larchmere and East 127th Street. Hanna says the cafe will feature classic French dishes such as steak frite as well as vegetarian favorites favored by patrons of Limbo and Vine and Bean.

"Our goal is to give people another reason to frequent Larchmere," says Hanna, who has partnered with investor Marie-Rose Andriadi, chef Tom Rindleisch and artist James Longs on the cafe. "People have always loved the patio, so we've really made that an emphasis."

In addition to the cute backyard patio, Hanna spruced up the postage stamp yard in front and added five tables with umbrellas for a sidewalk dining experience. He has also added two outside bars on the rear patio and an outdoor lounge area. Finally, he renovated the interior with white marble tables and a fresh look.

Most of Bon Vivant's entrees are priced under $20, and Hanna plans to eventually open for lunch. For now, though, Bon Vivant is open daily from 4 pm until 12 am.

Source: Joe Hanna
Writer: Lee Chilcote