Though Englewood spans just 4.93 square miles, it presents a surprisingly rich mix of dining destinations. Modern Bread and Bagel is the latest to join its growing food scene, located at 43 East Palisade Avenue. With a completely gluten and nut-free menu, this new spot creates a safe and flavorful experience for all diners. Keep reading to explore the story behind the Modern Bread and Bagel, its founder, and what sets its menu apart from the rest.
The Story Behind Modern Bread and Bagels + Its Arrival in Englewood
Modern Bread + Bagel, a well-known name in the foodie world, specializes in gluten/nut-free + kosher fare with a focus on artisan-style baked goods and imaginative dishes. The brand recently expanded beyond New York, crossing the Hudson to open its first New Jersey location in downtown Englewood, taking over the former Baumgart’s Café space. This new spot introduces a fresh perspective on gluten-free cuisine and casual dining, bringing a new dimension to the Englewood culinary scene.
Read More: Half Baked to Open Brick-and-Mortar Location in Mahwah This Summer
About the Founder: Orly Gottesman
For Orly Gottesman, opening a location in Englewood feels like more than just a business move — it’s a return to her roots. Born in New Jersey, Orly always had a strong connection to the area. After graduating from NYU, she and her husband moved to Paris, where she took on an apprenticeship at a local pastry shop. What began as an effort to recreate classic treats for her gluten-intolerant husband quickly grew into a deeper passion for baking.
That passion led Orly to pursue formal pastry training at Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney, Australia. While there, she launched an independent study focused on gluten-free baking, working closely with the school’s head pastry chef to understand how ancient grains and alternative flours could replace traditional wheat. Years of research, experimentation, and commitment resulted in a method for crafting baked goods that are both gluten-free and full of flavor.
What’s On The Menu?
As the name implies, the menu features a wide variety of bagels in flavors such as:
- Plain
- Sesame
- Everything
- Cinnamon Raisin
- Vegan Superseed
- Vegan Multigrain (BG’s go-to)
In addition to bagels, guests can find an assortment of breads — like challah and brioche buns — as well as sweet treats and pastries. The menu extends beyond baked goods to include both cold + hot sandwiches. Options include classics like egg or tuna salad, as well as warm selections such as a breakfast grilled cheese made with cheddar, onion jam, and a fried egg.
Salads and rotating monthly items also make an appearance. One of the highlights this June is the Cookie Dough Cinnamon Bun — a gf/df and nut-free treat that is a gooey sweetness that Team BG can’t resist.
See More: Exclusive: NYC-Based Sandwich Shop, Lenwich, Opening Hoboken Location
Online Ordering for Those Outside the Englewood Area
Modern Bread and Bagel also sells select products online. Items such as bagels, breads, and pastries are available for shipment, making it easy to access their foods even from outside the area.
13 Serene Outdoor Spots for Your Next Picnic in New Jersey
With warm weather in full swing, it's an ideal time to enjoy a meal outdoors with friends and family. Picnics combine fresh air, delicious food, and the beauty of nature, whether in a tranquil park or a lively riverside setting. This roundup highlights some of Bergen County’s most inviting picnic spots, each ideal for packing a lunch or picking up something from a nearby market to enjoy a relaxed moment outside. Continue reading for a list of scenic and spacious locations that are well-suited for an open-air outing in Bergen County, New Jersey.
Alpine Picnic Area | Alpine Approach Road, Alpine
Set along the northern end of Henry Hudson Drive, this riverfront location has picnic tables, grills, restrooms, water access, and waste receptacles. Its tranquil environment is ideal for both group gatherings and peaceful meals with a scenic view.
Parking: Metered parking is active from April to October.
Read More: Summer Movies + Concerts in the Park 2025 Kicks Off in Bergen County 7/8
Dahnert's Lake County Park | 500 County Road 67, Garfield
This 10-acre park features a playground, a pond, and a tree-lined walking path. A spacious lawn provides ample room to relax and enjoy a tranquil meal amidst the lush greenery.
Parking: Street parking is available along Midland Avenue.
Englewood Picnic Area | Henry Hudson Drive, Englewood Cliffs
Located near the southern end of Henry Hudson Drive, this area stretches along nearly half a mile of the Hudson River. Amenities include picnic tables, grills, restrooms, a playground, water access, and waste bins. Historic Bloomer's Beach is also in close proximity.
Parking: Metered parking is active from April to October.
Foschini Park |278 River Street, Hackensack
Known for its vibrant activity and relaxed ambiance, this riverside park has picnic areas adjacent to local sports fields, fostering a casual and lively atmosphere. This park is open from 7AM to 9PM, meaning visitors can catch an early sunrise or an evening picnic.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
Overpeck Park | 40 Fort Lee Road, Leonia
Spanning over 800 acres, this is one of Bergen County's largest recreational areas. It features picnic areas, athletic fields, fishing access, trails, a playground, and a launch site for paddling on Overpeck Creek.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
Parsons Pond Park | Parsons Pond Road, Franklin Lakes
Wooded trails, small ponds, and open fields characterize this 84-acre park. A few picnic tables are nestled among the landscape, providing ample grassy areas for leisurely outdoor meals on a cozy blanket, all while being surrounded by nature.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
Ramapo Reservation | 608 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah
Known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and lakes, this 4,000-acre preserve is a favorite destination for nature lovers. Many visitors opt to picnic by the water or in shaded forest areas after enjoying a scenic walk.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
Riverside County Park | Riverside Avenue, Lyndhurst
Stretching along the Passaic River in Lyndhurst and North Arlington, this park features open spaces, walking trails, and a seasonal concession stand to enhance the picnic experience. There are four miles of paved walking paths and larger picnic pavilions that can be reserved for festive gatherings.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
Ross Dock Picnic Area | Henry Hudson Drive, Fort Lee
North of the George Washington Bridge, this expansive riverfront area features picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and sweeping views of the Hudson River and the bridge. Visitors can access a boat ramp and fishing spots. The park is open from 6AM to 9PM.
Parking: Metered parking is active from April to October.
Saddle River County Park | 760 Saddle River Road, Saddle Brook
This 577-acre park spans multiple towns and features several picturesque areas. The Wild Duck Pond section, in particular, provides a tranquil space with water views, benches, and picnic tables.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
Van Saun County Park | 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus
130-acre park features a zoo, carousel, playgrounds, and picnic areas throughout. It is a space that blends activity and relaxation and is a popular destination for families. Catch-and-release fishing is available to New Jersey fishing license holders, and there are three miles of paved pathways.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
Veterans Field | 1057-1165 River Road, Edgewater
Located alongside the Hudson River, this park is renowned for its stunning skyline views and the vibrant boat traffic on the water. Benches and pathways provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor dining.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
See More:10 Montclair Spots for Picnic Goodies for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
Wood Dale County Park | 100 Prospect Avenue, Woodcliff Lake
Centered around a quiet pond, this 118-acre park features green spaces, walking paths, and courts for light recreational activities. It provides a serene setting for a picnic, surrounded by nature.
Parking: A parking lot is available on-site.
