One Chicago resident wants to introduce a business that is inspired by the countries she has been to.
Cafe Mona is a concept from Lisa Luong that is planned for the Gold Coast area. It will be a coffee shop in the morning, and wine bar in the evening. Right now, there is not an opening date as an address has yet to be locked down, but she is looking at storefronts.
Luong recently posted a pitch deck for her new business, showcasing the proposed menu, ideal locations and event plans. For the morning menu, there will be coffees, teas, fresh juices, along with pastel de nata, croissants, beignets, cannolis and other pastries. The evening menu will feature cocktails, spritz, wine and small bites.
“Together, we will create an enriching and dynamic space where people can come together through shared love for food, culture, adventure and so much more,” says the recent post.
Events like F1 and tennis watch parties are planned for the space. Book clubs, arts and crafts and coffee making classes are also ideas for when it is open. Cafe hours in the morning will be 5 a.m.-3 p.m., and the wine bar is 4 p.m.-11 p.m.
Luong said the concept is inspired by her travels including in France. She is hoping to narrow down a storefront on N State Street that has high foot traffic and is surrounded by businesses. It will be strategically placed between Lincoln Park and downtown to attract many coming to and from the areas.
For more information on Luong’s concept, visit Cafe Mona’s Instagram @monabylisa.

