On any given day, 605 Valley Road Montclair is bustling with people. The Montclair marketplace, called Mercado, is truly a one-stop-shop for breakfast and lunch needs: with a coffee bar, a hot food bar, and a menu expansive enough to try something new every day for a whole month. This local gem comes from the owners of Sandwich Theory, a former Montclair sandwich shop that has since closed its doors. In 2021, the owners brought a concept to Essex County inspired by marketplaces where they grew up in Portugal. Read on to learn more about Mercado and what this restaurant brings to the Montclair food and drink scene.
The Making of Mercado
Mercado officially opened its doors on Monday, November 29th, 2021. The owners, Marcelo Silva and Carla Silva, had originally signed the lease before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. They were starting to plan the move from their former location, Sandwich Theory, to their new location right down the road when the breakout began and plans had to be put on pause for businesses worldwide.
Read More: The Best Portuguese Restaurants in Newark
“As you can imagine, this was a challenging time. We were also incredibly fortunate that we had our former location still open. Our regular customers truly held us over while we were setting up the new location. We are so grateful for that,” the owners shared with The Montclair Girl in 2021.
Sandwich Theory, which was previously located at 590 Valley Road, has been in business since 2009. After 10 years, the owners decided they needed a larger location and wanted to update the concept behind the sandwich shop’s menu and space.
Mercado’s Inspiration
Luckily, Marcelo and Carla found an open space near their former shop and immediately signed the lease. “We always loved the cozy and friendly feeling on our block — seeing the same faces daily and being in someone’s life in this way. When we realized we needed a larger space, we knew we would stay right here,” the Silvas shared.
So where did the restaurant get its name from?
“We are originally from Portugal. Growing up, we would visit our local food hall in town, which is known as Mercado (The Market). These traditional markets are a combination of a large, indoor farmer’s market and a food hall. They are a fun and lively mix of butcher shops, charcuterie, fresh fish stands, and produce where you can also gather with friends for a quick meal, coffee, or even drinks,” the owners said. “We wanted to bring this lively energy into our place here in Montclair. This is the inspiration for Mercado.”
About The Menu
As told to MG, Mercado pays homage to traditional Portuguese marketplaces. Per the website, the eatery values “genuine ingredients and real food” and serves up “delicious staples, coffee and espresso drinks, and curated market goods.”
The options are expansive. There’s a traditional menu, with healthy breakfast and lunch options (sandwiches, bowls, salads, etc.) — but there’s also a build-your-own bar where you can customize a salad or health bowl. If you’re going the conventional route, the Mercado Breakfast Sandwich (pictured above) is a must-try.
Though the food is reason enough to add this spot to your list, Mercado also has a full-scale coffee bar, with the same drink options as any standard coffee shop would have. It’s rare to find a restaurant where the coffee is as good as the food, but like we said: one-stop-shop. (PS: order the iced maple latte).
See More: A Trip to Jane Doe Cocktail Bar + Restaurant in Jersey City
Aside from coffee drinks and teas, there are cold-pressed juices and various smoothies such as strawberry tart, avocado rush, triple berry, and spiced chocolate. The full menu can be found on the website here.
Mercado Montclair is open every day of the week at 605 Valley Road from 8PM – 4PM. The restaurant is available for catering, dine-in, takeout, and delivery. For more information, follow Mercado on Instagram here.
A Guide to North Jersey Farmers Markets
“Jersey Fresh” is the slogan of the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, and there’s no better time of year to enjoy the bounty of the Garden State than in the spring and summer. Here's a roundup of all of the farmers markets in North Jersey featuring fantastic local New Jersey vendors. Whether you prefer vegetables like tomatoes and corn or fruits like peaches and berries, there’s always something delicious and in season to find at the farmers market. Read on for our list of North Jersey farmers' markets.
Disclaimer: Please check each individual market for weather-related updates.
Essex County
Bloomfield Community Farmers' Market at Bloomfield Public Library Courtyard | 90 Broad Street
Tuesdays | 3:30PM - 6:30PM | June 3rd - October 28th
The Bloomfield Community Farmers Market runs in the Bloomfield Public Library Courtyard from June 3rd through October 28th. The market features different local vendors each year. For the 2024 season, the list included Bake Your Day, City Green, Cozz Coffee, and more.
Read More: How to Have a European-Style Summer in Montclair
Maplewood Farmers' Market | 1662 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood
Mondays | 2PM - 7PM | June 2nd - November 27th
The Maplewood Farmers Market is open on Mondays, starting on June 2nd. The 2025 vendors have yet to be announced, but past vendors have included Stony Hill Farm, Barry's Farm Stand, Vesco Foods, and more.
Montclair Farmers' Market at Walnut Street Station | 86 Walnut Street, Montclair
Saturdays | 9AM - 1PM | December - May; Saturdays | 8AM - 2PM | June - November
Montclair Farmers' Market includes local farmers and food artisans selling produce, meats, poultry, fish, cheeses, prepared foods, baked goods, condiments, honey, flowers, wine, pickles, and more. The summer season runs from June to November from 8AM to 2PM and the winter season runs from December to May from 9AM to 1PM.
NDD Downtown Market at PSEG Park Plaza | 80 Park Place, Newark
TBD
While the 2025 dates have not been announced yet, this market typically includes various food vendors, an Urban Agriculture Cooperative farm stand, arts and crafts activities, and tables to educate the community on local businesses and organizations.
Nutley Farmers' Market | TBD
TBD
Dates for the 2025 season of the Nutley Farmers Market have yet to be announced, but usually takes place on Sundays from June to October. There is typically an abundance of vendors and live music. The market will also host spring pop-up events on April 27th and May 18th on Booth Drive.
South Orange Downtown Farmers' Market | Sloan Street Parking Lot, South Orange
Wednesdays | 1PM-6PM | June 9th - October 29th
This market will run every Wednesday starting on June 9th, rain or shine, until October 29th. This year's vendors have not been posted yet but previous years included Stony Hill Farms, Grandma Emma’s, Josh Chocolates, and more.
Bergen County
17 Farmers Market | 17 East Union Avenue, East Rutherford
Monday- Friday | 8AM - 7:45PM; Sunday, 8AM – 6:45PM
At this farmers' market, customers can shop for produce and other goods. All products are delivered daily to this year-round, indoor market.
Englewood Farmers' Market at Veterans Memorial Park | Demarest Avenue + West Street, Englewood
Fridays | 10AM - 2PM | June 9th - October 27th
In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, this market offers locally made goods including pickles, baked goods, farm-fresh eggs, and more. The Englewood Farmers' Market will end on October 27th, 2025.
Glen Rock Farmers Market | 924 Prospect Street, Glen Rock
Sunday – Saturday | 8AM – 7:45PM
This year-round, indoor market gets deliveries daily, so everything is as fresh as can be. Shoppers can find produce, baked goods, and more at the Glen Rock Farmers Market.
Oakland Giant Farmers Market | 350 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland
Monday - Saturday | 8AM - 8PM; Sundays | 8AM - 7PM
The Oakland Giant Farmers Market is an indoor market providing a fresh fish counter, a deli counter, catering, and wholesale products. It is over year-round.
Ramsey Farmers' Market at Main Street Station | Station Plaza + West Main Street, Ramsey
Sundays | 9AM - 2 PM | May - November; Sundays | 10AM - 1PM | December - April
This market, which is open all year, has several pre-made food and beverage options, as well as produce, such as fruit-infused lemonade and frozen hand-made pizzas. Other noteworthy vendors include organic skincare, knife-sharpening, candies, and alpaca wool-wear.
Ridgewood Farmers' Market at NJ Transit Railroad Station | 6 Garber Square, Ridgewood
Sundays | 9AM - 3PM | June 28th - October 25th
This market has been in operation for the past 20 years. Some featured products that make an appearance each year include fresh mozzarella and handmade cannolis.
Rivervale Farmers' Market at Town Hall Parking Lot | 406 Rivervale Road, Rivervale
Thursdays | 1PM–6PM | May 15th - October 30th
Rivervale’s market is so beloved that it has its own cookbook available. While visiting, shoppers can also check out premade foods like empanadas and pies, shop for handmade wooden bowls, and get kitchen knives sharpened.
Rutherford Farmers' Market at Lincoln Park | 115 Highland Cross, Rutherford
Wednesdays | 11AM to 5PM + Saturdays | 8AM to 2PM | TBD
The 2025 dates for the Rutherford Farmers Market have not been revealed yet, but attendees can expect vendors, kids' activities, and more.
Saddle Brook Farmers' Market | 189 US 46 W, Saddle Brook
Sunday - Saturday | 8AM – 7:45PM
Fresh produce and other items are delivered daily at this indoor, year-round market.
Morris County
Boonton Farmers' Market at Upper Plane Street Parking Lot | Behind Main Street, Boonton
Saturdays | 9AM-1PM | May 17th - November 22nd
Local artisans, makers, and producers are all welcome at this farmers' market. Some offerings include locally-made honey, fresh produce, and empanadas. Other Main Street vendors will join in weekly offering kids games, crafts, and other activities.
Chatham Borough Farmers' Market RR Plaza South | 1 RR Plaza South, Chatham
Saturdays | 9AM - 2PM | June 21st - November 15th
Close to two dozen vendors make up this farmers' market, including locally made spirits, empanadas, and pickles. Shoppers will also find fresh produce, handmade wooden bowls, and Italian Ices.
Denville Farmers Market | Bloomfield Avenue Parking Lot, Denville
Sundays | 8:30AM - 1PM | May 4th - November 23rd; Sundays | 10AM - 1PM | January 12th - April 27th
The Denville Farmers Market hosts an array of local vendors, including Bobolink Dairy and Bakehouse, Melick’s Town Farm, and Jersey Girl Cheese. There are many other vendors with premade foods and fresh produce. The winter market runs from January to April and the summer market runs from May to November.
KFresh, the Kinnelon Borough Farmers Market at Kinnelon Borough Hall | 130 Kinnelon Road, Kinnelon
Mondays | 3PM- 7PM | TBD
This market, which is held rain or shine, supports the Kinnelon Tri-Boro Food Pantry, an organization providing food and essential items to Kinnelon, Butler, Bloomingdale, Riverdale, and outlying area communities. The 2025 dates have not been announced yet.
Morristown Farmers Market | 10 Wilmot Street, Morristown
Sundays | 8:30AM - 1PM | Starting June 22nd
The Morristown Farmers' Market has been running since 1990. It has live music every weekend, and several rotating vendors in addition to the anchor vendors. Parking is free, and the event website is updated with weather and schedule-related updates. The marker returns on June 22nd and will end at some point in November.
Riverdale Farmers' Market | 211 Hamburg Turnpike, Riverdale
Tuesdays | 2:30PM - 7PM | TBD
This market is returning for its 17th season in 2025. This market offers seasonal produce, bread, wine, pickles, and more, Christmas trees during the holiday season. The opening date has not been announced yet.
Passaic County
The City Green Farm Stand + Veggie Mobile at City Green Farm | 171 Grove Street, Clifton
Wednesdays + Fridays | 3PM - 6PM | Starting June 3rd
This five-acre farm offers community building and education along with farm-fresh produce. Neighbors are invited to shop the farm stand and veggie mobile on Wednesday and Friday evenings from 3PM to 6PM in Clifton.
The City Green Farm Stand + Veggie Mobile at Passaic City Hall | 330 Passaic Street, Passaic
Fridays | 10AM - 2PM | Starting June 3rd
City Green Farm will also provide its produce for locals to shop on Fridays at the Passaic City Hall.
Little Falls Farmers' Market at Town Hall Parking Lot | 225 Main Street, Little Falls
Sundays | 9AM - 2PM | May 18th - October 26th
This market offers fresh produce as well as locally made goods, including Cano Coffee, Rosie’s Empanadas, and Jersey Pickles. There are special events every weekend, including live music and magic shows for children.
Hawthorne Farmers' Market at Louis Bay 2nd Public Library + Community Center Parking Lot | 345 Lafayette Avenue, Hawthorne
Sundays | 9AM - 2PM | June - October
The Hawthorne Farmers Market, hosted by the Hawthorne Chamber of Commerce, will return to Passaic County in June. Specific dates have not been posted yet. Past vendors included Hirs Sausage Market, RH Farms, and more.
West Milford Farmers' Market at Presbyterian Church | 1452 Union Valley Road, West Milford
Second Saturday of the month | 9AM - 1PM | November - April; Second Saturday of the month | 3PM - 7PM | June - October
The West Milford Farmers Market encourages sustainable food production and community gathering. All of the vendors are within a 75-mile radius of the market and are selected to create a diverse set of foodstuffs for shoppers. The summer market's opening date has yet to be announced. Weather-related updates are available on the market’s Instagram.
Sussex County
Hopatcong Marketplace | TBD
Last Sunday of the month | TBD | June - October
At the Hopatcong Marketplace, shoppers will find locally grown produce, crafts, live music, and other vendors including vintage and collectibles dealers, local community organizations, and more. Specific dates and times have not been announced yet but the tentative months are from June to October.
Sparta Farmers' Market at Sparta Health + Wellness Center Parking Lot | 89 Sparta Avenue, Sparta
Saturdays | 9AM-1PM | TBD
The Sparta Farmers Market will return for the new year. Specific dates have not been posted, but the market usually runs from May to November. Visitors will find fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, honey, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods in addition to artisans and crafts.
Sussex County Farmers' Market at the Fairgrounds | 37 Plains Road, Augusta
2nd + 4th Saturdays of the month | 10AM-2PM | June - October
This market is designed to support Sussex County producers. Once the opening date is announced, shoppers will find locally produced meats, vegetables, fruits, fiber crafts, dairy products, and wine. Updates are posted on the market’s Facebook page.
Union County
Rahway Farmers' Market at Rahway Train Station Plaza | Corner of East Milton Avenue + Irving Street, Rahway
Thursdays | 12PM - 7PM | June - November
The exact dates for this year's farmers' market have not been announced yet, but it will occur from June to November. The market is powered by Hauser Hill Farms and will feature a plethora of vendors.
Scotch Plains Farmers' Marketplace | 430 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains
Saturdays | 8AM - 1PM | May 4th - November 22nd
This market features a variety of farms, bakeries, prepared foods, and crafters. Past vendors have included Frolla Pasticceria, Asprocolas Acres Farm, Ronnie Brook Farms Dairy, and Holly Jolly Jams. The Scotch Plains Farmers' Marketplace will return on May 4th.
See More: Farmers Markets in Hudson County
Summit Farmers' Market at Park + Shop Lot 1 | Corner of Deforest Avenue + Woodland Avenue, Summit
Sundays | 8AM -1PM | April 27th - December 21st
The Summit Farmers' Market returns for 2025 on April 27th. It will be held in Lot 1 of the Park + Shop. This year's vendors have not been announced yet, but past vendors included Oldwick Soups, Jana’s Jam, Race Farm, Roastwell Coffee, and more.
Township of Springfield Farmers' Market at Springfield Free Public Library | 66 Mountain Avenue, Springfield Township
Mondays | 11AM - 6PM | May 20th - October 28th
Shoppers will find Jersey-grown produce, meat, and dairy, as well as prepared foods from local vendors at this farmers' market, which takes place in the lawn of the Springfield Free Public Library on Mondays.
