Our Story

Hola! Welcome to El Mono!

 

At El Mono, every dish tells a story from Peru to the San Francisco Bay Area. We are proud to bring the bold flavors, rich traditions, and warm hospitality of Peru straight to your neighborhood.

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Founded by Dani and Matt in 2012, El Mono began at the intersection of family, culture, and a shared love for cooking and bringing people together. What started as a heartfelt idea grew through long days, late nights, and countless meals shared with the community we now proudly serve. More than a decade later, we remain deeply grateful to every guest who has supported us and allowed El Mono to grow into what it is today.

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As a family-owned and operated restaurant, we go the extra mile to serve thoughtfully sourced ingredients, time-honored recipes, and an experience that feels welcoming and memorable. From fresh Ceviches and sizzling Lomo Saltado to comforting Peruvian classics inspired by generations of cooking, every dish reflects years of patience, perseverance, and pride in building something special for our community.

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What Does El Mono Mean?

 

El Mono is Spanish for “The Monkey.” In the Nazca Desert of southern Peru, ancient civilizations etched massive geoglyphs into the earth known as the Nazca Lines, created between 400 and 650 AD and so vast they can only truly be appreciated from the sky.

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One of the most iconic figures among them is The Monkey, playful yet mysterious, energetic yet timeless. In many ways, El Mono reflects the spirit of Peru itself: vibrant, full of character, rich in history, and endlessly fascinating. Much like the unforgettable flavors you’ll discover here.

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From Our Family to Yours

 

Thank you for being part of our journey. Whether you are joining us for a quick lunch, a family dinner, live music night, or a special celebration, we are honored to share a piece of Peru with you.

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Welcome to El Mono. Welcome to our family restaurant.

 

El Mono Family