Beloved OKC restaurant that overcame tragedy announces closing after almost 10 years
Rachel and John Foster, owners of Moni's, 17200 N May Ave., announced Friday that the restaurant had served its last meal.
In a post on the restaurant's Facebook page, the couple thanked the community, patrons and staff for their support and help in making the restaurant what it was.
"Though our doors may be closing today, the memories we've crafted together are indelible. As we embark on our next chapter, we carry with us the warmth and love this community has blessed us with," the statement read in part. "We may not be serving dishes anymore, but the essence of what we created here will forever be etched in our hearts."
No definitive reason for the restaurant's closing was given in the statement, and the Fosters offered no further information when contacted Friday about the closing or their future plans.
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The last year of the Fosters lives included another time when John Foster thought he would close the restaurant, in a manner out of his control and on terms that were not his own.
Rachel Foster was involved in a tragic scooter accident that left her in a coma for 10 days in late 2022. While she was in that coma, John Foster thought he would lose his wife and knew he would not continue the restaurant without her, its chef.
But Rachel Foster woke up from the coma, making a miraculous recovery that culminated in her return to the kitchen at Moni's just six months and one day later and ultimately led the couple to host a series of events called "Rachel, Breathe" detailing the accident and all that came after it.
Community reaction to Moni's closing announcement
Responses to the post were swift with people responding with shock and sadness, but support for the Fosters as they move forward to their next phase in life.
Facebook user Victoria Lee wrote, "We love you guys so much. Incredible food and staff. Amazing owners. Our hearts are sad but we know life is so precious. We know you both cherish each day even more than the last. And, as you move forward to your next journey, we'll gladly be on stand by to help whenever or wherever needed."
Nearby business owners also shared in mourning the loss of the restaurant.
"So sad, we are going to miss you deeply. You two are the kindest souls and the whole community is going to miss you. Thank you for being the best business neighbor anyone could ever ask for," wrote Misty Jernigan, co-owner of Bacchus Wine & Spirits.
Numerous comments from people who worked at Moni's over the last 9 and a half years were also posted to the announcement.
"Working at Moni's was an experience that was unforgettable. The kindness and compassion I was shown by John and Rachel Foster has truly been unmatched and will always be cherished," wrote Facebook user Shelby Snow. "Thank you guys for everything you do. Sad to see the end of this chapter but incredibly proud to have been a witness to such an uplifting environment."
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Moni's Pasta & Pizza in OKC announces closure just shy of 10 years
