After undergoing a recent, significant renovation, Marcel Bakery + Kitchen reconnected with Stroll Essex Fells for the second partnership event of its kind. The first of these was a tremendous success enjoyed by all attendees and featured in our April 2018 issue. Owner Meny Vaknin invited select Essex Fells residents and Stroll sponsors to step into a unique space evoking the rich cultural legacy of Morocco. With attendance leaving us at capacity and resulting in a waitlist, the abundant buffet style meal both delighted our group and allowed us to get a sense of the extensive menu. Herbed falafel, Mishmish hummus, grilled chicken shawarma strips, and cheese & olive bourekas were just a few of the evening's offerings.

 

Combining his mother and grandmothers’ Israeli-Moroccan culinary teachings with his fine dining experience in some of New York's acclaimed restaurants, local celebrity Chef Meny Vaknin has created a fresh take on traditional dishes as chef-owner at Marcel. Chef Meny is also a two time winner of the Food Network’s Chopped series and demonstrates his cooking talents in a number of online videos and television shows.

 

Conveniently located on Valley Road in Montclair, Marcel is a casual destination offering healthy cuisine made with seasonal and locally sourced food, prepared with a Mediterranean focus. Marcel Bakery and Kitchen is open daily, and while dining in is a supreme treat, its website offers the convenience of ordering online. There are also plenty of grab-and-go options in addition to a smoothie and coffee bar. Residents and sponsors are hopeful to be invited to a third event in the future.