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Just over a month after opening its doors, Monarca Bar & Grill in Holbrook is hitting its stride.
Valentine’s Day offered a snapshot of how business has been trending: the dining room filled with couples and families, while the bar buzzed with Olympic hockey — including the U.S. team’s win over Denmark — the NBA All-Star shooting contest and other sports playing across the screens.
It was the kind of split personality owner Jorge Lopez envisioned from the start: a lively front bar for friends and fans, and a comfortable rear dining room for those looking to sit down and enjoy a full meal.
Since opening just before the New Year, Lopez and his staff say business has steadily increased. The Super Bowl drew a strong crowd, and many first-time visitors have already become repeat customers.
Blend of families and fans
“We are getting customers coming to this location for the first time, and coming back again and again because they love the menu so much,” said Lauren Dujat, a server and bartender who worked in the space under its previous tenant, Momo’s.
“What makes it extra special is to witness Jorge and Martha’s dream come true,” she continued. “They wanted to see families come in, and sit down, and enjoy their food.”
Longtime Garden Grill chef opens Monarca in Holbrook
There’s a noticeable shift in atmosphere from years past. While Monarca still caters to sports fans, it has broadened the experience beyond a traditional sports bar.
Families and couples fill the back dining room for a more relaxed dinner, while friends gather at the busy front bar for drinks and small plates. Longtime patrons from Momo’s have returned, joined by diners who followed Lopez from his decades in the kitchen at the Garden Grill in Smithtown — creating what feels like a best-of-both-worlds mix.
A dream taking shape
Jorge Lopez and his wife, Martha, spend much of their time in the kitchen, but they make a point to step out front to greet guests and mingle.
Much of that welcoming, public-facing energy is carried by their staff. On a recent Saturday, Dujat worked alongside her brother, Shawn, as well as Nicki Adams and Samantha Donahue, helping keep the dining room and bar moving smoothly.
Jorge Lopez said he has been overwhelmed by the community’s response.
“I am so happy with how the community has embraced us,” he said. “We appreciate the support. Seeing families come in, seeing people enjoy the food and come back again — that means everything to us.”
Top: Sean Dujat, Samantha Donahue, Jorge Lopez and Lauren Dujat (Brian Harmon photo).
