Why do I keep returning to Jackie's Grillette - Upper Montclair's newest upscale deli? I love the warmth it exudes - from the savory food, from owner Tina Arsheed and her staff, to the classy decor (tomato red and granny smith green walls). I like its comfort-factor: get a pick-me-up at the espresso and juice bar, pop-in alone or with friends for a sweet treat; pick up a quick take-out and dash out the back door to catch the train, or a enjoy a speedy dine-in before a movie; it's kid-friendly (fresh fruit smoothies, pastries!), and serves from the breakfast, lunch and dinner menu all day.
About themenu: there's a wide range of omelettes, salads, wraps, sandwiches, and entrees - many vegetarian choices - often infused with a Mediterranean twist.
The first time I stopped in I tried the day's special: Tina's homemade (really!) vegetarian lentil soup - with a palate-pleasing zest of lemon and fresh parsley. I asked for a half tuna melt to go with it. Jackie's Grillette didn't disappoint - well seasoned with a bit of crunchy sweet red pepper. My friend's grilled marinated veggie sandwich with fresh mozz and pesto was devoured with gusto.
I went back with my Man later that week and we got wrapped in the place, literally.
The Mediterranean wrap (right) is a surprising treat: tangy, lemon grilled chicken breast slices with tabouli and hummus in a spinach tortilla. Delicious, it surpassed my expectations. The wraps are big enough to share for a light lunch -- but I wasn't about to give up more than a bite. My Man loves his roast beef rare, and savored "Jackie's Special" hero, loaded with beef, bacon, swiss, coleslaw, and russian dressing. (It was an "I'll have what she's having" moment.) We finished off lunch with cappuccinos and Tina's homemade baklava. It was just the right touch.
One my third visit, I tried the shop's best seller - Cobb salad in a wrap. It had everything you would expect, wrapped up in a huge bundle - egg, avocado, bacon, turkey, lettuce and tomato. Jackie's serves it with honey mustard, but they graciously fulfilled my request for Blue Cheese. This lunch was also a home run.
There were equally appetizing vegetarian platters of falafel, stuffed grape leaves, hummus and tabouli at a neighboring table - one of several interesting Middle Eastern menu items - like the kabob platters. That's what I'll be ordering on my next visit to Jackie's Grillette. 614 Valley Road, Upper Montclair. Free Wi-Fi. Open seven days, Monday - Saturday 7am-9pm, Sunday 7:30am-6pm. 973-744-0090.
This review is dead on. And free wi-fi at such a gem is a great added bonus. Plus the coffee rocks!