Great healthy choice. My go to is the chicken shawarma plate. Love the jalapenos added to the hummus. The salad dressing is also great. The chicken is moist and full of flavor. Hate when chicken shawarma is dry and bland, not here! Check the iced mint tea out too.
Overview
Mona's Cafe, located at 3901 Banks St, New Orleans, LA 70119, is one of those places where you can truly experience the vibrant soul of New Orleans through food. If you’ve been looking for a cozy spot with a menu that brings together classic New Orleans flavors and a warm atmosphere, Mona’s is the place to be. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this diner-style cafe offers something for everyone, and it’s not hard to see why it has garnered a loyal following.
The moment you walk through the door, you're greeted with the irresistible scent of freshly baked bread and simmering gumbo. The cafe has a welcoming vibe that makes it perfect for a casual meal with friends or a cozy dinner for two. What really stands out here is how they manage to serve up delicious, satisfying dishes without making you feel rushed or overwhelmed by a fancy setting. The relaxed, neighborhood-diner feel makes it easy to unwind, enjoy good food, and savor every bite.
The menu at Mona’s is a reflection of New Orleans' rich culinary history, with dishes like po'boys, gumbo, and jambalaya, all executed with care and precision. A personal favorite here is their classic shrimp po'boy-crunchy, golden shrimp piled high on soft, toasted bread with just the right amount of seasoning. The sandwich is complemented by tangy, homemade remoulade sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a standout option for any first-time visitor. If you're craving something a bit more hearty, the gumbo is another must-try. The rich, flavorful broth, loaded with tender chicken, sausage, and shrimp, pairs perfectly with a scoop of rice and a hunk of French bread to soak up all the goodness.
Mona’s doesn’t just stop at savory dishes; they also offer a variety of salads and vegetarian options for those looking for something lighter. The falafel platter, for example, is a great choice for vegetarians, with crispy falafel balls, hummus, tabbouleh, and pita bread all served in generous portions. It's clear that Mona's is not just about offering food, but offering a dining experience where flavor and quality are always front and center.
One thing that makes Mona’s unique is their commitment to providing a casual yet exceptional dining experience. The staff here are friendly, attentive, and genuinely invested in making sure that you have a great time. Whether you’re asking for a recommendation or in need of refills, you can expect a personal touch that adds to the overall charm of the place.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the consistent quality of their offerings. Over the years, Mona’s has built a reputation for delivering great food in a comfortable environment, and their loyal customer base is a testament to that. The cafe’s location on Banks Street adds to its appeal, as it’s conveniently situated in a lively area of New Orleans that’s both accessible and inviting. This spot has become a staple in the community, and it’s easy to see why. It’s the kind of place you can count on for a reliably delicious meal, whether you’re stopping by for lunch, a mid-day snack, or a fulfilling dinner.
In terms of reviews, locals and visitors alike consistently praise Mona’s for its straightforward, delicious offerings and friendly ambiance. There’s no pretense here-just good food, well-made, and served with a smile. The positive word-of-mouth speaks volumes about the cafe’s commitment to quality and service. Plus, with a menu that caters to various tastes, it’s an easy choice for both solo diners and larger groups.
Mona’s Cafe isn't just another eatery in New Orleans-it's a reflection of the city’s rich food culture and history. With its welcoming atmosphere, flavorful menu, and commitment to quality, it has rightfully earned its place as a local favorite. If you find yourself in the area, make sure to stop by and try one of their many delicious dishes.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ On-site services ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great tea selectionPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Beer ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Halal food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian optionsDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Quiet ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ Tourists ✓ University studentsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
This is the absolute BEST Lebanese food I’ve ever had. They make it fresh when you order. The gyro meat is perfect. The service is amazing and they are fast! If you’ve never been, I’m telling you right now it’s worth the trip.
The lamb chops were good, not marinated long enough. The food was good and the Lebanese tea was good and it had the nuts. My waiter was excellent and he was a little surprised I was aware of the dishes and the flavor the food should have.
This is a fantastic Lebanese spot with friendly staff and incredible food. The portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable. While the interior isn’t overly fancy, the food more than makes up for it. One thing to note: the green pepper pickle on top of the hummus is quite spicy, so be cautious if you're sensitive to heat!
Food is basic Middle Eastern. The dining area is breathtakingly beautiful. Great addition to the community.
I had a great time visiting this halal restaurant. There is nice decor inside with cute booth seating with an authentic feel. The service was great and the food was great too. We ordered the combo kabab, chicken kabab, spinach pie, and falafels. The food was fresh and delicious. We had a great experience!!
First time at Monas, dined at the outdoor patio. Really enjoyed everything we tried, standouts included the falafel and veggie grape leaves. Don't miss the attached grocery store for to-go options. BYOB if you want to drink.