The Weekend News

Hot transit scoop:

Some Metro buses, like the number 48 pictured left, now have LED displays that indicate when a stop has been requested. They display the date and time as a default.

The King County Web site reveals that Metro Transit began a move towards "smart" bus technology last year, requiring replacement of bus communication systems and installation of internal displays.

The site also describes an automated announcement made for each stop that would include nearby landmarks, but that feature was not functioning on the bus pictured above.

From the Metro Transit Web site:

What do "smart" buses do?

• Speed bus trips along major transportation corridors using an enhanced traffic signal priority system that engages only when needed to maintain schedules
• Improve information provided to riders:
• Automatically announce the bus route number and destination to waiting passengers at each bus stop
• Automatically count passengers to provide timely, accurate rider and trip information for more effective transportation planning

In more transit-related news:

Today is Cafe Vivace's last day at their original home just off the corner of Denny Way and Broadway.

The Jack-in-the-Box across the street from them has been fenced off for months, but it seems a shame to move the cafe from its spot overlooking Cal Anderson Park to the newly constructed condominium building, "Brix," at Yale Street and Broadway where it will compete with Dilettante Mocha Cafe and Chocolate Martini Bar.

Cafe owner David Schomer said they would re-open a few days after their move in an interview with The Stranger in March. He also describes the new location as having a 44-foot mural, burnt yellow walls, and sidewalk seating. Schomer also mentioned a grand-opening party — sounds like something not to miss if you love Seattle coffee and beautiful spaces.



In other coffee-shop/ construction news:

Cafe Allegro on 42nd Avenue in the University District looks like it actually will be boxed in. The parking lot between the cafe and 15th Avenue Northeast, but permits and complications held the building back for 10 years — that is, until this sign went up two days ago.

The building permit describes the typical mixed-use, condo deal: a level of retail, a level of offices, a parking garage, and 26 residential units.

Ironically, a woman-driver, whom I recognized as an Allegro regular, honked at me to move out of the way while I took this picture. Maybe she was worried that the lot would close before she got in.


In more tropical news:

Restaurant La Casa Del Mojito on University Way between 52nd and 55th streets is getting good business on Friday nights. They opened only a few months ago, but their selection of Brazilian drinks and food seems to be attracting students and non-students alike.

They offer a few tostones, mashed and fried plantains, with almost all of their entrees, and even offer heart of palm salad — when they aren't out, like they were this last Friday, that is.

Their mojito (above, $7.00) was the perfect strength and perfectly refreshing on a warm Friday evening. The restaurant also features an open kitchen, generous portions ( like Pollo a la Parilla pictured left, $13.75), and friendly staff.

One thing could hinder their success on "the Ave" though — their prices — a bit high for student budgets. However with their proximity to Ravenna and Roosevelt neighborhoods they may not have a problem pulling in more financially stable customers.

In a final wrap-up of this Weekend News:

What's summer in the Rainier Valley with out a shiny, snakeskin-detailed car?