News Summary
Monaco Italian Kitchen has officially opened in Irvine, as part of the Eighteen Main dining collective. Led by chef Karl Pfleider, the restaurant aims to offer authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist, featuring an array of traditional and contemporary dishes. From scratch-made pasta to heartwarming desserts, the new eatery provides a vibrant space for various dining experiences, focusing on high-quality ingredients sourced from Italy. Its inventive bar program further enhances the Italian dining experience for patrons.
Irvine, California has welcomed a new culinary addition with the opening of Monaco Italian Kitchen, located within the recently launched Eighteen Main dining collective. This restaurant promises to offer a unique dining experience centered around authentic Italian cuisine while embracing modern interpretations.
Established by restaurateur Tony Monaco, known for previously running successful establishments such as The Blind Pig Kitchen & Bar and The Trough Sandwich Kitchen, Monaco Italian Kitchen aims to provide an inviting atmosphere complete with a diverse menu. Leading the culinary team is Executive Chef Karl Pfleider, who draws inspiration from traditional Italian recipes to create dishes that pay homage to Italy while incorporating contemporary flair.
The restaurant boasts a menu that showcases a variety of offerings, all intended to cater to different tastes and dining preferences. Guests can find scratch-made dough and pastas, providing a base for an assortment of pizzas, including the classic Neapolitan-style Margherita, the spicy Diavola, and a distinctive Prosciutto pizza topped with burrata and honey. Additionally, there are options for antipasti like arancini and burrata served with tomato jam, as well as signature dishes such as spaghetti with clams (alla vongole).
For heartier entrees, diners can select from slow-braised lamb shank, branzino, and chicken piccata, while the dessert menu features enticing choices including a chocolate hazelnut confection, lemon and blueberry cheesecake, and traditional tiramisu. The ingredients for these culinary creations are carefully sourced, with many items flown in from Italy to maintain a high level of authenticity in the dishes served.
Visually, Monaco Italian Kitchen combines a blend of Milanese style and coastal charm, designed to accommodate up to 130 guests in a vibrant and comfortable setting. The restaurant is designed not only to facilitate casual lunches but also to create an ambient space for romantic dinners, reflecting flexibility in its dining offerings.
The bar program further complements the menu with unique cocktails and a thoughtfully curated selection of Italian wines, enhancing the Italian dining experience for patrons.
The opening of Monaco Italian Kitchen signifies a commitment to elevating the dining landscape in Orange County, particularly as Eighteen Main expands to eight restaurants since its inception in 2020. This addition aims to enrich the culinary scene in the area, providing residents and visitors with high-quality Italian dining options.
Monaco Italian Kitchen is open daily for both lunch and dinner, positioning itself as a go-to destination for food enthusiasts eager to explore authentic Italian flavors presented through a modern lens.
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Additional Resources
- Orange Coast Magazine: Monaco Italian Kitchen Brings Authentic Italian Flavors to Irvine
- Wikipedia: Italian Cuisine
- Locale Magazine: Monaco Italian Kitchen in Irvine
- Google Search: Italian Restaurants in Irvine
- OC Register: Irvine’s Monaco Italian Kitchen Reveals Menu & Grand Opening Date
- Google Scholar: Italian Cuisine
- Locale Magazine: Best New Restaurants in OC This Year
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
- OC Business Journal: Monaco Italian Kitchen Bar to Open at Eighteen Main
- Google News: Orange County Restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
