Welcome to Marcel Bakery and Kitchen
Marcel Bakery and Kitchen, nestled in Montclair, NJ, is a culinary gem that offers an inviting atmosphere and an exceptional menu inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, notably with an Israeli flair. Patrons rave about dishes like the Mediterranean Tuna Melt, Vegan Brisket, and the signature Mish Mish Shakshouka, all crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that burst with flavor. The friendly staff and cozy setting make every visit feel like home, encouraging community and connection. With reasonable pricing and a delightful array of pastries, Marcel Bakery and Kitchen isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of delicious, thoughtfully prepared food.
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631 1/2 Valley Rd, Montclair, NJ 07043, United States Hotline: +1 973-842-4088
Welcome to Marcel Bakery and Kitchen, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Montclair, New Jersey. Located at 631 1/2 Valley Rd, this cozy eatery is a culinary haven, blending Mediterranean flavors with a distinct Israeli focus. If you're seeking a space that marries exceptional food with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, you've arrived at the right place.
As you step inside, you're embraced by an inviting ambiance that encourages you to linger. The warm energy permeates the dining area, making it feel like a home away from home. Much of what makes Marcel special is the passionate team led by owner Daniel, whose heart is evident in every dish served. The level of care in food preparation radiates throughout the space, creating an experience that goes beyond mere dining—it's a celebration of community and connection.
The menu is a treasure trove of vibrant, imaginative dishes. Customers rave about the Mediterranean Tuna Melt, a tantalizing creation crafted with olives, celery, and harissa aioli, all nestled within a perfectly toasted bread. Each bite is a burst of flavor, leaving you craving more. If you're in the mood for something different, the Vegan Brisket with mushrooms and fresh pita will transport your taste buds to mesmerizing culinary landscapes.
Breakfast lovers will find their haven here with fan-favorites like the Mish Mish Shakshouka—an aromatic tomato stew brimming with spices and topped with poached eggs, served with warm pita for an authentic touch. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, using locally sourced, organic ingredients that enhance freshness and quality. The attention to detail is apparent, from the smooth, rich coffees to the irresistible pastries that beckon from the counter.
But it's not just about the food; it's the exceptional service that highlights the Marcel experience. Diners like Katie and Fayna Pearlman have noted the genuine warmth and friendliness of the staff, who go above and beyond to accommodate your needs, making each visit feel personalized and special.
Whether you're an early bird seeking brunch or someone looking to share a meal with friends, Marcel Bakery and Kitchen promises an enjoyable experience that satisfies both your appetite and soul. With reasonable prices that allow you to indulge without breaking the bank, you might just find yourself a regular here. Don’t wait—visit Marcel and discover the culinary magic that keeps patrons coming back for more.
Marcel Bakery & Kitchen in Montclair turned out to be a rather pleasant surprise. My friend, who comes from Jordan, had heard very good things about this place so we came to check it out recently. While they call themselves Mediterranean- and that is true- Marcel seems to be more Israeli focused. The food here is outstanding. I had the Mediterranean Tuna Melt and I can honestly say that I’ve never had a tuna melt anywhere close to this tasteful. It was made with olives, celery, red onion, Cheddar, and harissa aioli; fabulous. My friend had the Malawach Sabich, which she enjoyed very much. The coffee here is most excellent. Service is friendly and fairly fast. Prices seemed to be lower than I would have expected for this area. Highly recommended.
Amazing experience and outstanding food! My family came for breakfast from out of town and they couldn’t stop raving about the food and excellent vibes. Staff is so friendly, food is extremely flavorful and leaves you feeling so satisfied! We got so much food and couldn’t believe how well priced Marcel is. 20/20 would recommend :)
We really enjoyed the food & everything else! I got the Vegan Brisket with mushrooms, onions & tomato over hummus with a glorious thick & fresh pita! It was so delicious & flavorful! You could tell that this beautiful food was cooked with precision & expertise by a skilled Chef. My friend got the Vegan shawarma which he enjoyed. I have uploaded pics of the various yummies in the case too. It is relaxed and peaceful in the dining area & the people who work there were welcoming and thoughtful! 5 stars for my review of this spot.
Absolutely blown away by this gem of a restaurant — my favorite place to eat, hands down. From the moment you walk in, you're wrapped in the most welcoming, warm energy. The vibes are immaculate, the kind that makes you want to stay a while, soak it all in, and come back again and again. The food? Out of this world. Each dish is vibrant, creative, and bursting with flavor. You can truly taste the care that goes into every plate — much of the sourcing is local and organic, and it shows in the freshness and quality. The kitchen was incredibly thoughtful and kind, making adjustments to fit my needs without hesitation. Huge gratitude to them for that! What really sets this place apart is the people. Everyone who works here radiates warmth and joy — it’s clear they love what they do, and it makes the whole experience feel like coming home. Special shout out to Daniel, the owner, whose heart is clearly at the center of it all. He’s cultivated something rare — a place where community thrives and every visit feels meaningful. This isn't just a restaurant. It’s a gathering place, a celebration of good food and good people. Can’t wait to come back.
This is my go-to brunch spot on the weekends. It can get busy, but it’s so worth the wait. My favorites are the “Commited Jew,” breakfast burritos and omelettes, and the rugelach!!
"Regulars" visit the same place regularly for a reason. My reason for frequenting Marcel is the Mish Mish Shakshouka. Yesterday, my bowl was exceptionally tasty. For persons that don't know the dish, I'd explain it as a tangy tomato stew filled with spices, topped with salty feta cheese and two poached eggs swimming comfortably in the yum. Marcel serves the house specialty with a side of pita. Chunks of warm bread are enthusiasticly torn apart to sponge up every last morsel of food. It's a little embarrassing what the bowl looks like when I'm finished. The spinach, mushroom, and cheese omelet is my alter ego. Served with airy salad greens and topped with a light dressing, this side screams healthy eats. The portion is generous, large enough for another meal later in the day. Za'atar potatoes are a perfect indulgence, and a dirty chai rounds out the meal The comfortable ambiance welcomes college-aged young adults, stroller-pushing families, and a work from home community all sitting side by side. Order at the counter. Don't try to resist the pastries and consider a smoothie. Grab the numerical placard and an empty table. The server will find you, deliver your steaming plate, and cheerfully wish you to enjoy. Enjoy. It's not hard to do at Marcel Bakery and Kitchen.
If you're looking for a small and cozy spot with incredible food, this place is a hidden gem. While there’s no waitressing, the food more than makes up for it. The flavors are outstanding, the portions are generous, and the prices are absolutely mind-blowing. The pastries are also delicious—definitely worth the trip.
No need to get on a Mediterranean diet. I love the deliciously fresh & creative food of Marcel. You can feel & taste the love that goes into the preparation of the food. bon appetit. Marcel servers the Best breakfast.