“ Visited this charming, family-run Italian restaurant with a group of five colleagues. It's a cozy, hole-in-the-wall spot that exudes a homey atmosphere. While the beer and wine options are limited, the selection was perfectly adequate for our group. I tried the lasagna and bruschetta, and both were outstanding--easily the best I've ever had. Although the service was a bit slow, it's understandable given the small, packed dining area and the intimate, family-oriented vibe. The portion sizes were generous, almost family-style, so I'd highly recommend opting for a shared meal if you're dining with a group. Overall, a wonderful experience that's perfect for a relaxed, communal dinner. ”

“ Talk about a memorable experience while visiting New Orleans! This is our second visit and just a few days to the Mona Lisa, why, because the food is amazing! In fact, I don't know if it's the food, the atmosphere, or the incredible kindness you feel the moment you step in? I highly recommend, that you come here often, so that you can test more of this menu, I have a funny feeling you might love the baked ziti as well! ”

“ Great hidden gem here in New Orleans. Staff was extremely friendly, the decorations are unique and charming. Crayons on the table? So fun! Food was of course great, and a great value at that! We'd totally go back! :) ”

“ Such a great find. Small place but a great vibe. We tried several different items and everything was amazing. Our server was attentive and friendly. Definitely will be back next time we are in town. ”

“ Loved this place. Great dinner spot. Was in line at 5PM ready to go. There was a long line when we left. I kinda like the no reservation policy. Food was delicious. Wine was great. Prices were very fair. Service and workers are very friendly. Split pasta, salads, garlic bread and pecan pie. Bottle of white. Recommend all of the above. ”

“ Was visiting NOLA from Boston and craving Italian. Mona Lisa gets great food reviews on Yelp and we were told by local residents how great it was. We waited in line about 40 minutes in anticipation. We were warned the host/owner could be salty, but I thought he was just a character dealing with crazy patrons, many of whom arrived intoxicated after the Saints game. #IYKYK. Anyhoo, the vibe is great--love the interior, though dimly lit (dark photos). The food is fresh and homemade. But Italian is regional and I wasn't a super fan of the style overall. It was good. The bruschetta was atypical: thin slices of toasted bread served with a cooked tomato compote of sorts. Very flavorful but unexpected from the fresh diced tomatoes I was hoping for. My friend had the chicken parm. She did not care for the chunky-style tomato sauce. I tasted the chicken which was spot-on. I had the Bolognese, which was more of spaghetti tossed in ground meat. I yearned for more red sauce. It was tasty, but needed a saucy coating. The star of the show was the panna cotta with delicious berry compote. The pizza looked good. Maybe I didn't order the right thing? ”

“ I loved this restaurant! My boyfriend and I were in NOLA to celebrate my birthday and, honestly, we didn't have many great food moments. We came to Mona Lisa based on the recommendation of a bartender at a local bar; so happy we did! The vibe is fantastic, service was superb (shout out to Raven!) and the food was delish. If I lived in NOLA, I'd for sure be a regular. 5/5 highly recommend. ”

“ Love love love Mona Lisa - only one minor complaint is that they are dinner service only. Everything else is perfect! Casual atmosphere yet a great place for a romantic/fun date night. We always start with a bottle of wine, great selection and not all too over the top expensive. We have worked our way down the menu and have enjoyed every dish. On our latest visit we each had a side salad and split a small pizza which was plenty for two. Side salads are simple but come with a yummy slice of cheese pizza. The pizza has a delicious crust and toppings, just enough cheese and great tasty sauce. If you order too much it reheats really well the next day which I can't say the same for all pizza. Stop by enjoy the atmosphere and delicious food, stay for dessert. ”

“ Mama mia! This little mom and pop place is all that and then some! We were craving Italian food while visiting New Orleans and stumbled upon this hidden gem. The inside is quaint and quiet, it's like visiting your grandmas house at the holidays.. light chatter buzzing around you but nothing loud or intrusive. Our waitress was fantastic and took great care of us, we ended up ordering a pizza and pasta, both of which were absolutely fantastic and tasted home-cooked ! I love that they have the paper tablecloth on the table for you to draw on, it brings back nostalgic memories of being a kid for me and my husband and I had a fun time drawing and playing tic-tac-toe. Will absolutely return next time we're in NOLA! Ciao! ”

“ First time visitors coming for a late night dinner Very busy place, expect a 45 min to hour wait Though everyone was friendly and upbeat! There is Mona Lisa decor everywhere whether it's mockery, something hand drawn, or history related. You are also able to draw on the table with crayons for amusement. Server was watching assisting multiple table but quite friendly and informative and checked up on us multiple times. Mainly Italian food but it was fresh, generous portions, reasonable pricing, and darn right tasty! I had the seafood pasta with extra garlic - so good and best part it did not leave you waddling like a penguin upon consumption. Flavorful, cooked perfectly, and not Overpowering. The calzone can easily be shared as an appetizer (well All dishes are very shareable!) Great spot for date night, friends outing, dine solo, and people walk watching galore! ”