Mandaloun Mediterranean Cuisine — Restaurant in West Caldwell

If I could give this place 6 stars, I would.

From the moment we walked in, the ambiance set the tone for an unforgettable evening — one that rivaled, and in some ways reflected, the Mediterranean magic my wife and I experienced during our 12-day trip to Crete, Greece in July 2024. We’re not just lovers of Mediterranean cuisine — we’re seasoned travelers of it. We’ve dined on the sun-kissed shores of Palma de Mallorca, savored seafood on the coast of Spain, and indulged in fresh, authentic flavors on the Greek Isles. So, trust me when I say: this American Mediterranean restaurant is the real deal.

Let’s start with the service — because before the first dish hit our table, we were already impressed. The staff, a young, vibrant team, carried themselves with professionalism and warmth. They weren’t doing too much — just the right balance of attentiveness and authenticity. Our waitress was exceptional, the kind that anticipates your needs before you even voice them. And the manager? A gem. Not only is he polished and personable, he’s a true people’s person — he came to our table to personally greet and honor my spiritual daughter, whose birthday we were celebrating. That gesture, that intentional kindness, left an imprint on all of us.

Now the food. My God, the food.

I ordered the mixed grill platter — lamb kebab, chicken, beef — each bite bursting with flavor, grilled to absolute perfection. But what stole the show for me was the cucumber hummus. All caps: OMG. Creamy, fresh, and unlike anything I’ve had before. My wife ordered the branzino, a Mediterranean delicacy done right — flaky, seasoned masterfully, and plated beautifully. The hummus trio platter? A masterpiece in textures and tastes. And my spiritual daughter’s salmon entrée? She said her first bite was beyond perfect — and she meant it.

Even the kids’ menu surprised us. We’ve all seen the standard chicken strips and fries offered to children — but here, they were done so well, I almost ate my daughter’s meal myself.

The decor and atmosphere? Elegant but comfortable. Classy yet warm. A true Mediterranean vibe that made us feel like we were back overseas.

This wasn’t just dinner. This was an experience.

If you claim to love Mediterranean food — and I mean truly love it — you owe it to yourself to come here. Not just for the flavors, but for the heart behind the hospitality. To the owner, manager, and the entire staff: thank you. You made our evening special, and we’re already planning our return.

Highly, deeply, passionately...

Unforgettable Mediterranean Feast – A Perfect Group Dining Experience!

We recently visited Mandaloun Mediterranean in Coldwell, NJ as a group of 9 people, and the entire experience was absolutely exceptional from start to finish.

From the moment we arrived, the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome and comfortable. The ambiance was elegant yet inviting—perfect for a lively group dinner. The space is beautifully decorated, striking the right balance between traditional charm and modern comfort.

As a group, we had the opportunity to try a wide variety of dishes, and every single one exceeded expectations. For appetizers, we sampled falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanouj, and mhamara—each one was incredibly flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented. The hummus and baba ghanouj were smooth and rich, the falafel crispy and perfectly spiced, and the mhamara was a standout with its bold, smoky depth.

Dinner was nothing short of a culinary celebration. We ordered lamb shanks, branzino, and a stunning shrimp and scallops over couscous dish that deserves special mention—it was the best I have ever had. The seafood was perfectly cooked, tender, and infused with Mediterranean spices that danced on the palate. The lamb was fall-off-the-bone tender, and the branzino was fresh and perfectly grilled.

The service was impeccable—our server managed our large table with ease, offering great recommendations and keeping everything flowing smoothly without ever feeling rushed.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that can accommodate a group while still delivering an exceptional dining experience, Mandaloun is the place to go. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Mediterranean cuisine or trying it for the first time, you’re in for a treat. We’ll definitely...

Mandaloun is an absolute gem of a dining experience, and I cannot recommend it enough! From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with warm, friendly service that makes you feel right at home. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure your visit is memorable, and their attentiveness truly enhances the overall experience. The appetizers are a culinary delight, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. Each dish feels like a work of art, carefully crafted to please both the eyes and the palate. Whether it’s the creamy hummus, the perfectly spiced falafel, or the fresh, vibrant salads, every bite is a testament to the chef’s skill and passion.

The main courses are equally impressive. The dinners are rich, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. From succulent grilled meats to hearty vegetarian options, every dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The presentation is impeccable, with each plate looking like it belongs on the cover of a gourmet magazine. It’s clear that every detail is thoughtfully considered, from the garnishes to the arrangement of the food. The service is exceptional—friendly, and genuinely caring. The staff takes pride in what they do, and it shows in every interaction.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that offers incredible food, stunning presentation, and top-notch service, Mandaloun is the place to go. It’s a dining experience you won’t soon forget, and I can’t...