Two months after closing doors at his Spanish tapas restaurant, owner Brendan Marsden opened doors at Mona’s, an American-Italian joint, on Oct. 19. As Sauce reported in August, Marsden closed Modesto after 15 years, announcing that it was time for a concept change at the space on 5257 Shaw Ave.
The Hill is known for Italian-American eateries, but Marsden has his own spin. Pizzas feature toppings inspired by different American culinary regions, like a smoked chicken pizza with corn, red onion and grilled red pepper. While the ultra-thin pizza crusts lean toward the lighter side, four pasta dishes offer heartier fare.
Marsden spent the last two months updating the interior, which now features white and blue walls. The space seats roughly 100 in bright yellow chairs. While the menu is new, loyal Modesto fans will find a pleasant surprise: the bacon-wrapped dates and bread pudding still make an appearance.
Mona’s is currently open Monday to Thursday from 5 to 9:30 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10:30 p.m.; Marsden plans to add lunch service in the coming weeks. Here’s a first look at The Hill’s newest eatery:
This article appears in October 2016.