Mabel, a new full-service restaurant at the Bell Works complex in Holmdel, spans more than 4,000 square feet and blends modern design elements with the those of the 2 million-square-foot property designed by Eero Saarinen. — All images courtesy: Stone Creek Construction Group
By Joshua Burd
The landmark Bell Works complex in Holmdel has welcomed its first full-service restaurant with the help of Stone Creek Construction Group, the project’s general contractor.
The construction team said Mabel, which spans more than 4,000 square feet, blends modern design elements with those of the 2 million-square-foot former Bell Labs campus on Crawfords Corner Road. That includes natural materials and elegant finishes that harmonize with the building’s midcentury modern design, with extensive millwork and custom details such as an original mural by So & So of Asbury Park that serves as a focal point in the lounge.
The space can seat more than 210 guests across its main dining area, an expansive wrap around bar and a lounge, according to a news release. Matawan-based Stone Creek also pointed to what it described as a standout feature — a glass-enclosed kitchen where guests can watch chefs craft dishes inspired by coastal European cuisine.
SLIDESHOW: Inside Mabel at Bell Works
“We are thrilled to have played a role in bringing Mabel to such a historically significant and architecturally inspiring location, contributing to the growth of local businesses within this innovative community,” said Michael Bruno, president of Stone Creek Construction Group. “Our team and trade partners’ dedication and craftsmanship are evident in every aspect of this project, and we invite everyone to visit Mabel and experience it for themselves.”
Located in Bell Works, originally designed by architect Eero Saarinen, Mabel offers a menu inspired by Spanish, Italian, French and Portuguese cuisine. Inspired by Somerset Development, the property’s owner and the firm responsible for repositioning the former Bell Labs campus, noted recently that the eatery’s name is an homage to Mabel Gardiner Bell, the wife of Alexander Graham Bell.
Stone Creek said it partnered with owners and chefs Laura Brahn and Grace Crossman, who also own Cardinal Provisions in Asbury Park, to bring the vision for Mabel to life.
Mabel, coastal European-themed eatery, opens as Bell Works’ first full-service restaurant