Mona's Cafe — Restaurant in New Orleans

I ate at the now closed Magazine location of Mona's Cafe for years as it was the closest to where I live. I also ate at most of the several other locations they used to have (now the only one left and my favorite location is the one here at Banks Street that has their market attached to it). All of the locations were very consistent in quality and service. It isn't the best Middle Eastern food I've had but it is generally good. I really like their iced mint tea and I usually get the combo kabob platter. I also like the Mona's sampler which gives you a selection of their appetizers. I think they have the best kibby in New Orleans and I do enjoy munching on those. I've nearly always had good service at all the locations of Mona's I've eaten at but now with just this one location left I've noticed a distinct drop in the quality of service. A little known fact is that you can bring in your own wine and they don't have a corkage fee so that can be a nice way to enjoy a pretty inexpensive fun dinner.

My Middle East Feast video review that includes Mona's Cafe is...

Tonight was my third time at Mona’s, and it has consistently been better each visit! If you crave the freshest flavors of the near East, treat your stomach and your tastebuds to Mona’s. If you want the most tender shish kebab, the best kibe (kibby), and the brightest babaganouj, find yourself a favorite, magical booth inside or a breezy table under the outdoor canopy at Mona’s. Stop in the grocery store for a jar of figs in honey to take home to remind yourself of Mona’s decadent standard fare. I myself took home some freshly ground Turkish coffee for that same purpose, to enjoy at the end of a meal and think about the friendly service, the expert staff that guided me to the freshest menu items, and my newest family member, my brother from another mother, Mr. Layth Taha. Mona’s is generous and an absolute bargain, as the quality of food and meal preparation/presentation exceeds many trendy and pretentious locales; Mona’s is your new favorite neighborhood spot, consistently fresh and delicious, with a staff that you want as your neighbors. Cheers!...

What do I know about Lebanese cuisine? Not much. I’m learning! But, here is my review of a $17 (plus tip and tax) chicken kebab meal. (Ultimately $25).

For that amount, I think a person should receive more portions. However, what is received tastes good; the rice was well made and seasoned, the chicken was cooked right and still juicy, and tasted fresh/not prepackaged. The humus was fine. Nothing offended my tastebuds, and it was better than average; but nothing special, either.

The service…well it seems the lady serving me was new there. It wasn’t incredible waitressing. Couldn’t get a clear answer what salad was on the dressing. Had to ask for the included salad when it didn’t come. Room for improvement there.

Also, no themed music. C’mon people! I want to feel like I’m in Lebanon. The place already has some really cool decor and seating themes! (Great for kids I’d say.)

Could be better. Place has potential. Include more food (or lower the prices) and add thematic music, maybe some Lebanese waiter costumes, to make it...