Location: Dubai, UAE
“We want to bring a slice of Italy to the UAE” was the memo for Monno’s concept and design. Founded by two young Emirati pilots on a mission to transform their passion for Italian cuisine into a unique and accessible dining concept in the heart of Dubai, Monno proudly serves up some of the most authentic Italian food – Neapolitan style pizza included – outside of Italy.
THE CHALLENGE
Team Aces was commissioned to create a brand that radiated the warmth and charm of the classic ristorante artigianale, but in a manner that was anything but expected. Avid fans of Italian food and culture, the Aces were totally onboard for undertaking this challenge.
THE CONCEPT
Situated in the upscale residential neighborhood of Jumeirah, the Aces of Space team worked to translate the quaint, intimate and rustic appeal of the Italian trattoria into a contemporary, casual dining concept that would stand out and hold its own within Dubai’s highly competitive F&B scene.
BRAND IDENTITY
Quintessentially Italian, without being literal, terracotta tones represent the landscape of the Italian countryside and la dolce vita, whilst the logo’s classic Italian lettering embraces the aesthetics of the 50’s and 60’s. Bold yet elegant, unexpected but unmistakably Italian, the brand identity aptly reflects the Monno’s menu and dining experience.
THE DESIGN
A white brick pizza oven, custom-built and imported from Naples, served as a focal point of the space which was accentuated with deep earth tones, textured wood and lots of natural light which subtly added depth and character to curate the ristorante artigianale journey. A lush Tuscan-style garden, nestled within an al fresco greenhouse, channeled the essence of dining at a family-owned trattoria in the Italian countryside.
THE JOURNEY
Going beyond the visual elements, we wanted the space to channel a sense of escapism which would enable guests to take a break from the hectic pace of the city, so that they could slow down and enjoy a leisurely meal together, in true Italian fashion.
For better web experience, please use the website in portrait mode