"Fresh local asparagus is only available for a few short weeks, so we invite you to join us at Mondano in Old Forge this May and June to savor the season. Whether you’re indulging in our Grilled Asparagus small plate or enjoying it as part of your dinner sides, you’ll taste the difference that truly fresh, locally grown produce makes."
Few ingredients capture the essence of spring quite like fresh asparagus. With its vibrant green color, delicate snap, and grassy-sweet flavor, asparagus is one of the season’s most treasured vegetables. At Mondano, we’re proud to highlight this springtime staple throughout our May and June menus, sourcing exceptionally tender and flavorful asparagus from a local grower in Falls, Pennsylvania.
Why We Love Asparagus in Spring
Asparagus is one of the first crops to emerge from the thawing earth, a true harbinger of the growing season in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Packed with nutrients and celebrated for its versatility, asparagus shines in both rustic and refined preparations. Its short peak season makes it even more special—and at Mondano, we make the most of it while it lasts.
Featuring Local Asparagus at Mondano
We’ve designed several dishes around this beautiful local ingredient:
- Grilled Asparagus with Romesco and Almonds. A standout on our Small Plates menu, this dish layers the smoky depth of flame-grilled asparagus with bold Spanish romesco sauce and the delicate crunch of toasted almonds. It’s a plant-based option that bursts with Mediterranean flavor.
- Fricassee of Spring Vegetables. Served alongside select dinner entrees, this preparation combines asparagus with other early-season gems—think snap peas, carrots, zucchini, yellow squash, and broccoli—in a light, herby broth that lets each vegetable shine.
- Grilled Spring Vegetables. Another seasonal side option, our grilled vegetable medley brings out the sweetness in local asparagus, pairing it with a rotating mix of market-fresh produce. Finished with olive oil and sea salt, it’s simplicity at its finest.
Supporting Local Agriculture
Our partnership with several small farm in Falls, PA and the Back Mountain reflects our commitment to sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. Not only does this ensure peak freshness and flavor—it also supports the vibrant network of growers and producers right here in Lackawanna County and the Wyoming Valley region. It’s part of how we deliver global flavors from local farms!
Don’t Miss It—Asparagus Season Is Short!
Fresh local asparagus is only available for a few short weeks, so we invite you to join us at Mondano this May and June to savor the season. Whether you’re indulging in our Grilled Asparagus small plate or enjoying it as part of your dinner sides, you’ll taste the difference that truly fresh, locally grown produce makes.