In 2026, MoMo celebrates 40 years of serving Dallas and the Lake Highlands community. Originally opened in 1986 by an Italian family from Tuscany, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite. Wende began working at MoMo in 1988 and remained closely connected to the restaurant and its founding family through the years. When Wende and Aaron began dating in 2000, MoMo became their Sunday night tradition — a ritual they still continue today. Once the dinner rush slows on Sundays, you can often find them sitting down together, carrying on a decades-long date night.

Both Wende and Aaron are career restaurant professionals, each with more than 30 years of experience at some of Dallas’ most respected establishments, including York Street, Lola The Restaurant, Mot Hai Ba, Shinsei, Savory Bistro, and Zizikis. In 2017, they took over ownership of MoMo, determined not only to preserve its legacy but to help it thrive for the next generation.

Longevity alone makes MoMo unique — few restaurants reach the 40-year mark — but what truly sets it apart is its balance of tradition and creativity. Chef Asher explores the history of Italian cuisine, uncovering dishes rarely seen outside of Italy and presenting them with thoughtful modern touches. The menu reflects the Northern regions of Italy, offering selections diners simply will not find elsewhere in Dallas. Complementing the cuisine is a curated wine list focused on smaller, independent Italian producers, creating an authentic and distinctive dining experience.

Community has always been central to the MoMo story. On any given evening, three generations of the same family may be seated at a table. Many employees come from Lake Highlands, and regulars often watch their children get their first job at MoMo before heading off to college — sometimes returning during the summer to work again. Since taking ownership, Wende and Aaron have made it a priority to deepen those neighborhood ties by hosting spirit nights and donating to local school fundraisers. Their gratitude for the Lake Highlands community is evident; its support has sustained the restaurant for 40 years.

There is also something guests may not realize: although MoMo is located on Forest Lane in the northernmost part of Lake Highlands, the quality of food, wine, and service rivals restaurants in Knox/Henderson and Oak Cliff — without the added cost of parking or valet.

Behind the scenes, the restaurant industry creates strong bonds among its teams. Co-workers often become a second family, navigating busy nights and slower evenings together with one shared goal: to give every guest the best experience possible. That commitment is something diners can feel the moment they walk through the doors.

As MoMo celebrates its 40th anniversary throughout the year with special menus and events, Wende and Aaron remain focused on thoughtful growth and continued connection to the neighborhood they have served for decades. This spring, as the weather invites us outdoors, MoMo Italian Kitchen remains a timeless place to gather — where tradition, community, and exceptional Northern Italian cuisine come together.