About Monaia

Who We Are

At Monaia Mediterranean Cuisine, we bring the vibrant and rich flavors of the Mediterranean to
your table. Founded by Mona Kalout, a passionate Lebanese cook with deep roots in her homeland’s culinary traditions, Monaia offers an authentic taste of Lebanon right here in
California.
Our menu is a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and time-honored recipes that have
been passed down through generations.

Whether you’re craving a comforting family meal orexploring Mediterranean flavors for the first time, we’re here to offer a culinary experience that
nourishes both the body and the soul.
Every dish we prepare is made with love and care, inspired by the rich heritage of Lebanese
and Mediterranean cooking. From hearty stews and grilled meats, to traditional mezze, and
delightful desserts to refreshing salads and homemade dips, our menu offers something for
everyone.
At Monaia, we believe food should bring people together, tell a story, and create memories. We
invite you to discover the warmth and hospitality of Mediterranean cuisine through every bite.

Our Story

At the heart of Monaia Mediterranean Cuisine is a story of love, tradition, and passion for food.
My name is Mona Kalout, and I was born and raised in Lebanon, where the kitchen was always
the heart of our home. I grew up watching my mother skillfully prepare meals, infusing each dish
with care, flavor, and the warmth of family. It was in those moments, surrounded by the aromas
of spices and fresh ingredients, that my love for cooking was born.
In 1999, I moved to California, carrying with me not only my Lebanese roots but also the rich
culinary traditions of my homeland. Cooking became my way of staying connected to home, and
I found joy in sharing these traditions with others, introducing them to the authentic flavors of the
Mediterranean.
Monaia Mediterranean Cuisine was born out of this passion: a desire to bring the vibrant,
comforting dishes I grew up with to California’s diverse food scene. At Monaia, every dish is
more than just food; it’s a reflection of my journey, my heritage, and my love for the art of
cooking.

From traditional mezze to hearty mains and delightful desserts, each plate tells the story of
Lebanon’s rich culinary history, blended with the fresh, diverse influences of my life here in
California. My hope is that when you dine with us, you not only experience the flavors of the
Mediterranean but also feel the love and tradition that goes into every meal.
This is our story, and we invite you to be a part of it one dish at a time.