New restraurant open in Monroe

Monroe's downtown is home to a new dining establishment as of this weekend. Many of us have been watching the old Wolf Office Supply building all summer long as the the new owners, Russ and Nadine, have been working hard on the renovations, turning it into a southwestern inspired setting for casual dining.

Pancho & Lefty's is now open for business.

I stopped in today after hearing raves for multiple friends who eat there over the weekend. The dining area and bar are not huge, but they are filled with comfortable tables and chairs. The decor and dark red walls lend to the intimate, relaxed feeling.

The menu sounds great, and the prices are all quite reasonable. The main entrees include steak, chicken, burritos, pulled pork, burgers and more. There are a variety of appetizer choices, including deviled eggs that I have heard are fabulous. Desserts are limited to a lime mousse with gingersnap crust or chocolate bread pudding, and both are affordable add-ons at only $3.50.

Pancho & Lefty's does serve beer, including local options from New Glarus Brewing Company. Russ and Nadine are making an effort to support the local foods movement. In addition to the beer, they have Roth Kase cheese and bread from the famous Monticello Yodeling baker.

Pancho and Lefty's is located at 1018 17th Ave on the east side of Monroe's Downtown Square. They are open for lunch and dinner, and are open all week including Sundays and Mondays. Bring the checkbook as they accept cash or local checks, but no credit cards.