In a dramatic turn of events, Monica’s Trattoria, an iconic restaurant nestled in Boston’s North End neighborhood, finds itself under new management. The change comes as its former manager and co-owner, Patrick Mendoza, remains in custody in connection with a shooting incident that occurred last month. During a recent hearing held by the Boston Licensing Board, Monica’s Trattoria was granted approval to switch its manager of record from Mendoza to long-time employee Amanda McQueen.
McQueen’s association with Monica’s Trattoria spans an impressive six years, during which she has diligently served as the restaurant’s operations manager for the past three. With her extensive experience, McQueen is well-prepared to take the reins and oversee the eatery’s daily operations.
The unfortunate circumstances leading to this managerial transition revolve around Mendoza’s arrest on July 21 related to a shooting incident near Modern Pastry Shop on Hanover Street. Disturbing surveillance footage obtained by WCVB captures the shocking moment when an assailant fired a gun while riding a bicycle outside the bakery. Rocco Giovenello, a resident living above Modern Pastry Shop, revealed that he was the intended target of the attack, alleging years of harassment by Mendoza.
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office disclosed that Mendoza, at the time of the shooting, was on probation for a 2022 assault case involving Giovenello. Mendoza’s probation term was set to expire on the same day as the incident, further complicating the circumstances surrounding his arrest. During a subsequent dangerousness hearing, Boston Municipal Court Judge Paul Treseler ordered Mendoza to be held without bail for 120 days. He currently faces charges of assault by means of a dangerous weapon, assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon, and assault and battery.
Moreover, in an earlier development, the Boston Licensing Board had suspended Monica’s Trattoria’s food and liquor license indefinitely. This decision came after Mendoza failed to appear for a hearing the prior week. Chair of the Licensing Board, Kathleen Joyce, expressed serious reservations about Mendoza’s continued association with the establishment, highlighting concerns about character and fitness. The board member Liam Curran supported the decision, emphasizing that Mendoza’s absence was not due to illness or vacation.
Representing Monica’s Trattoria, attorney William Ferullo argued during the violation hearing that McQueen had effectively taken charge of the restaurant’s operations during Mendoza’s absence. Additionally, the establishment had initiated the process of transferring the food and liquor license to McQueen’s name. Ferullo also mentioned that Mendoza had retired from the ownership of the company that runs the restaurant.
As of now, Monica’s Trattoria has remained closed since July 25 due to the license suspension. However, there are hopes of reopening in time to serve their delightful food to customers starting this weekend. Meanwhile, Mendoza’s next court appearance is scheduled for a probable cause hearing on Friday.
While this unexpected change in management unfolds amidst a cloud of legal troubles, the staff and patrons of Monica’s Trattoria remain hopeful for a fresh start. It is a testament to their resilience and commitment to providing exceptional dining experiences in the heart of Boston’s North End. As the restaurant prepares to open its doors once again, McQueen’s leadership promises to guide the establishment towards a brighter future, distancing it from the recent unfortunate events that have gripped the neighborhood’s attention.
Author: Ryan Scott
Just a guy
