What could be more serene than spending the afternoon indulging in mouth-watering Italian cuisine while being surrounded by a peculiar congregation of creepy and downright disturbing marionette memorabilia? Well, apparently, nothing, according to Monte Carlo's Deli, which has been haunting Burbank with its unsettling Pinocchio doll collection and carb-tastic cuisine for decades.
What's the vibe of such a place, you ask? Well, as you can imagine, the decor boldly embraces the puppet theme, with dolls peering out from every nook and cranny, creating an atmosphere that's simultaneously whimsical and deeply unsettling. Other details in this gastronomic nightmare include checkerboard table mats, classic wine jugs, and vibrant red booths—sort of like an Olive Garden but more charming. However, in the end, they all play second fiddle to the puppet brigade. The restaurant's dedication to its duality is both commendable and utterly bizarre, as if it exists in a parallel culinary universe where marionettes and meatballs coexist in eerie harmony.
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That's right, people that suffer from doll-phobia and those who covered their eyes during Child's Play need not apply.
It's also essential to acknowledge that this place is a haven for lonely patrons, as a trip to Monte Carlo's ensures you always have "friends" dining with you. Even if they are, scattered in every corner, staring at you with their dead puppet eyes and judging your every bite as you navigate the fine wine and dessert section.
Take a leisurely stroll through the joint, bask in the authentic Italian vibes, but good luck trying to shake off the eerie aura of those creepy puppets completely. They're there, lurking, watching your every move, possibly plotting to steal your soul – or at the very least, your half-eaten cannoli – at any moment.
On the plus side: This monstrous slice of Lasagna only cost $8, money which I can only assume goes into a shared fund to buy tiny hats and bow ties for the dolls.
Just look at those savory carbs, glistening under the hot lights. Food porn at its finest; a true work of art.
The whole experience leaves us with the real burning question: what happens inside Monte Carlo's at night? Do the puppets come to life and throw a raucous party? Perhaps they indulge in leftover wine and discuss world domination? Either way, I'm steering clear of this place when the sun decides to call it a day.
If the prospect of dining among malevolent dolls doesn't tickle your fancy, there's a decently sized market out front. From banana peppers to fancy Italian desserts, it's the perfect escape route for a puppet-free clean five minutes.
And if the dolls weren't weird enough, wait until you glance at the wall art.
Jeffrey Daumer would be proud
and these classics
Good times, indeed!
