Mabel, a coastal European restaurant and bar by Chefs Laura Brahn and Grace Crossman, will open on November 15 at Bell Works, the two million-square-foot mixed-use project in Holmdel, N.J. It is the first full-service restaurant to open at the complex.
Mabel’s new home spans more than 4,200 square feet and can seat 210 guests. Named in honor of Mabel Gardiner Bell, wife of Alexander Graham Bell, Mabel reflects Bell Works’ historical roots as the former Bell Labs campus.
“Mabel represents more than another eatery, but a space that fosters a new level of community and connection within the Bell Works ecosystem,” said Ralph Zucker, founder and CEO of Inspired by Somerset Development, Bell Works’ developer. “This exciting culinary addition from a reputable hospitality team is a natural extension of our vision to establish the campus as a destination for businesses, locals and visitors alike.”
The restaurant’s interior design is intended to echo the architecture of Bell Works while implementing natural materials and a color palette reflecting the coastal direction of the menu. Mabel’s interior was further influenced by the life and impact of Mabel Gardiner Bell, and features references to her passions for horticulture and ornithology adorning the walls. Various graphic elements throughout the space as well as a prominent mural were designed by So & So.
Mabel offers an elevated menu crafted of familiar favorites reimagined. Signature dishes include duck rillettes, croquetas de papa packed with fresh herbs, fontina cheese and an ajo blanco for dipping, a seafood tower, oyster mushrooms Milanese, prawn bomba rice, handmade pasta dishes, steaks with various housemade sauces and more.
“Bell Works is the ideal location for our second restaurant,” said Chefs Grace Crossman and Laura Brahn. “The dynamic, ever-evolving environment at Bell Works aligns perfectly with what we hope to create at Mabel, a neighborhood hub celebrating fresh, diverse ingredients with simplicity and style. Our menu honors the vibrant mix of tenants, locals and visitors at the metroburb.”
Mabel is the latest addition to Bell Works’ growing pipeline of dining options, following Miznon Kosher’s opening in September. Mabel is the second restaurant by Brahn and Crossman, known for their popular brunch spot, Cardinal, in Asbury Park, New Jersey.
