Mona Lisa Mix Up: CT Restaurant Closure Announcement Prompts Confusion

The Mona Lisa Ristorante in Thomaston announced Wednesday it has decided to go out of business after 19 years.

Meanwhile, the unrelated, but similarly-named Mona Lisa Restaurant in Wolcott has been fielding calls from worried customers, but that eatery is staying open.

The Thomaston restaurant announced its closure on Facebook on March 18.

“You celebrated birthdays here, picked up dinner after long days, brought your kids in who grew up coming here,” the announcement said. “Some of you have been coming since the very beginning, and that means more than we can ever put into words. This decision didn’t come easy. It’s emotional for all of us.”

The Thomaston business thanked its customers for their support and loyalty.

“You made Mona Lisa what it is,” the announcement said. “This place will always mean something special, not just to us, but to this community.”

The announcement had garnered more than 130 comments as of Friday morning.

Amber Garrow commented, “From baseball celebrations to providing pizzas for the school district during the Covid pandemic, you have been amazing for our community. You will be missed.”

Another customer, Kate Hackney Williams, expressed sadness at the news.

“We absolutely loved Mona Lisa’s over the years. Thank you so much for all that you have done for our community and for the schools and children….Such a treasure, I hope you know how much you are appreciated and how deeply you will be missed.”

Another Mona Lisa eatery ‘Here to stay’

The Mona Lisa Restaurant in Wolcott on Thursday assured customers on its Facebook page that it is staying open.

According to the Wolcott business, it has received several calls from concerned friends and customers asking if it is closing.

Its owners assured everyone it is remaining in business, and it will continue to serve its Italian-style fare.

“It seems there may be some confusion with another restaurant sharing our name in a different city, but we are here to stay,” the Facebook post said. “We truly appreciate your care and support, and we ask for your help in putting these rumors to rest. We look forward to seeing you soon!”