Mona Lisa restaurant in French Quarter not closing after facing eviction

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – The owner of Mona Lisa, a longtime Italian restaurant in the French Quarter, says the eatery is no longer facing eviction and will remain open.

RELATED: Mona Lisa restaurant faces eviction after nearly 20 years in the French Quarter

Farrow Stephenson said last week he received a text message from the building’s new owner giving the restaurant 60 days to move out. Now, he confirmed those plans have been reversed.

“As far as I know, we’re staying,” Stephenson said. “Unless there’s a giant meteor or a Category 5 on the way, I think we’re fine.”

Stephenson and his husband, Tom Moore, have operated Mona Lisa on Royal Street since 2005. Customers say the restaurant has been a hub for community and inclusivity for decades.

A rally had been planned for Aug. 16 at 5:30 p.m. to protest the possible eviction. Stephenson said the event will still be held, but now as a celebration.

Patrons welcomed the news. “This is such a quaint little spot,” one customer said. “We love the owners, and we wanted to come support them one more time before anything. We heard today they were going to get to stay, so we’re just here to celebrate now.”

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