Local Eats: Moni’s Pasta & Pizza

Dining locally just doesn’t get any better than a cozy Italian eatery right around the corner in the neighborhood. Warm lighting, comfy tables, superior food and drinks, and the friendliest owners and staff entice you to linger over good times and laughter. That’s why guests have been drawn to the comfort and charisma of Moni’s Pasta & Pizza since 2014 when owners John and Rachel Foster embarked on a passionate new adventure together.

Classically trained French Chef, Rachel, and technology expert, John, blended their creative and business skills when they took over Moni’s in Edmond. Nearly eight years and several expansions and remodelings later, this beloved restaurant now seats up to 180 guests, has a full bar, spacious patio and robust carry-out and catering business.

Breaking Bread

You simply can’t come to Moni’s without enjoying the house-made bread. The oversized, billowy yeast rolls with a buttery garlic top are truly something special. Dipped in the slightly peppery garlic oil, it’s a meal on its own. “Our bread is a labor of love,” Rachel says. “We make it from scratch every day, rolled by hand. We also offer it for special order and this year found ourselves making 1300 rolls the day before Thanksgiving! It was cool to know we were part of so many families’ meals.”

Craving the Classics

Specializing in as many fresh, made-to-order items as possible, all of Moni’s sauces and soups are made when ordered and not done in big batches. These elevated culinary touches are evident in every bite, especially in best-loved dishes like the rich and creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, an OKC favorite! Moni’s will forever spoil you with this one. The Linguine Broccoli with blackened chicken is another highlight. “It’s spicy, buttery, garlicky goodness,” John comments. Other favorites are the Chicken Marsala and generously portioned Shrimp Scampi. Ask about the Romano Stracciatella, an off-the-menu secret! Don’t worry about trying to pronounce it, just ask for the Italian version of egg drop soup – garlic, spinach, chicken stock and lemon, finished with an egg.

Indulge Responsibly

Sticking to your diet is actually fun with Moni’s low-carb and heart happy selections like the vegetable lasagna layered with eggplant, zucchini and squash. The Baked Salmon on cauliflower mash and the steamed mussels in a chardonnay broth are other top choices.

Finishing Touches

Don’t leave without trying Bartender Luke’s famous Sangria with Limoncello. He steeps the Limoncello in-house for a whole month, deepening the flavor and taking the Sangria over the top. “Limoncello can aid digestion at the end of a meal (and help you sleep!),”John notes. But before you nod off, enjoy Moni’s famous Limoncello cake. The delicate treat is layered with citrusy mascarpone and absolutely melts in your mouth after a hearty Italian meal.

Visit Moni’s Pasta & Pizza at 17200 N. May in Edmond or www.monisokc.com.