All-Star Deli Of Monroe Becomes Flo’s Mideast Bistro & Bagels

MONROE, NJ — It seems everyone in New Jersey loves bagels. But how about adding a unique twist: a bagel place in the morning, where you can grab a quick coffee on your way to work, and then a Middle Eastern bistro at lunchtime?

That's the concept behind Flo's Mideast Bistro & Bagels, located 365 Spotswood Englishtown Road in Monroe. That's the spot of what used to be All-Star Deli of Monroe, but the business has undergone a change in ownership after new owners, Elliot and Susan Samuels stepped in.

The new breakfast and lunch restaurant is now called Flo’s Mideast Bistro & Bagels. Visitors to the eatery will notice a breakfast menu that is not very different from what the All-Star Deli had to offer. What is different, however, is Chef Elliot’s creative approach to Middle Eastern cuisine for lunchtime. They will offer vegetarian and vegan food, and hot breads, sandwiches and more.

Elliot worked as a chef at a kibbutz in Israel. A kibbutz is a communal living experiment unique to Israeli culture. Flo’s menu items mimic the food Elliot would prepare in the Kibbutz — for people and cultures spanning from the Middle East, back to America. The offerings may be familiar to many: That area of New Jersey — Monroe, Manalapan, Marlboro and South and East Brunswick — has a sizeable Jewish population.

“We’re excited to introduce flavorful, healthy choices from different parts of the world, while still making delicious, more familiar breakfast items,” said Samuels.

Flo’s serves a fusion of Middle Eastern favorites right along with a classic breakfast menu. Breakfast begins at 6 a.m. every morning, transitioning to Flo’s lunch menu after 11 a.m. The new bistro’s lunch offerings include vegan and vegetarian salads, hot pita sandwiches, baked desserts and fresh squeezed juices. Flo’s management takes great care to use fresh, local ingredients when preparing their food. What’s more, Flo’s ownership takes great pride in offering fresh produce and juices with menu items.

Breakfast customers at Flo’s will be able to choose from their favorite bagels, omelets, and specialty breakfast items like “The Watering Hole” — an egg sandwich with pork roll, bacon, and sausage. Customers who come hungry for lunch will have options like the Roasted Cauliflower & Tahini salad or the Falafel Burger on a bagel.

The restaurant is currently open and accepting orders for eat-in, pick up, as well as via online delivery options like Grub Hub, Uber Eats and Door Dash.

“I personally love to make this food and it’s even better when I can share with friends and family,” said Samuels. “We’re looking forward to bringing our own flare to the local community.”

Flo's had a ribbon cutting and food tasting on Nov. 16. Monroe Mayor Gerald Tamburro and the council were present.