About Simon's Marketplace
Simon's Marketplace blends a small-town deli counter with a curated boutique vibe.
The kitchen focuses on home-cooked flavors—sandwiches like the Mayflower, meatloaf, and fresh soups—served on their much-talked-about baguette, often nicknamed "crackbread."
Service is consistently warm and attentive, and reviewers note a peaceful, sunlit interior that makes lingering over coffee and cookies feel easy.
The market doubles as a spot to grab prepared meals, bakery items and a few gift finds.
Location & Contact
- Address17 Main St, Chester, CT 06412
- Websitehttps://simonsmarketplace.net
- Phone(860) 526-8984
- Links Get directions
What to Expect
Menus tilt toward hearty, homemade fare: stacked sandwiches (Mayflower, Caprese, Montauk), oven-warm baguettes known as "crackbread," daily meatloaf and fresh soups like creamy mushroom barley.
Bakery offerings run from chocolate crinkle and snickerdoodle cookies to scones, muffins and banana bread.
Coffee—often praised and noted as JIM’s organic—pairs with breakfast omelets, egg-and-cheese sandwiches and large French toast portions.
Salads, pasta sides and roasted Brussels sprouts show the kitchen balances comfort and fresh sides.
Hashtag Breakfast Fact's
Health Trends Influence Breakfast
As health consciousness has grown, Connecticut's breakfast trends have adapted to emphasize nutrition and wellness. In recent years, many people have leaned towards lighter, healthier options, favoring smoothies, avocado toast, and whole grain cereals. This shift reflects a broader awareness of the importance of starting the day with balanced nutrition. The inclusion of superfoods and plant-based ingredients highlights a modern approach to breakfast, showing how cultural attitudes towards health continue to shape what we eat in the morning.
Menu Highlights
From the Community
In the heart of Chester, Simon's Marketplace has built a reputation for dependable, homemade comfort food served in a sunlit, friendly setting.
The deli's baguette draws frequent praise—referred to affectionately as "crackbread" by return visitors—and its sandwich lineup ranges from the Thanksgiving-style Mayflower to classic Caprese and Pulled Pork creations.
Reviewers repeatedly note generous portions and a homemade quality that feels like a neighbor cooking for you.
Patrons celebrate both sweets and savory bites.
One fan put it plainly: "Obsessed with this place," Bonnie Gleicher wrote, calling out the Mayflower sandwich, meatloaf and cowboy cookies.
Another regular praised the overall impact with, "Absolutely delicious.
Wow," a sentiment repeated across many notes about fresh-baked cookies, muffins and the iced chai.
Chef Harry singled out a staple treat: "The chocolate crinkle cookie has been a top 3 cookie on my cookie list," highlighting the bakery's draw.
Beyond single dishes, locals point to the welcoming staff and relaxed atmosphere—owners and team members get named recognition—making Simon's both a quick lunch stop and a place to linger over coffee and a pastry.
Why Locals Love It
Customer Reviews
"Obsessed with this place. Every dish is healthy, hearty, and home cooked, like you’re in a friend’s kitchen. The sweet-and-savory Mayflower “Thanksgiving” sandwich, the meatloaf, the brussels sprouts, the creamy mushroom barley soup, the cowboy “kitchen sink” cookies. Includes an adorable boutique for candle/stationary/creams shopping. Sunlit, calm, lots of windows, peaceful. 5 stars!!!"
"Absolutely delicious. Wow. I liked everything we ate. My buddy told me about this place and we were in Chester for work that morning. Had an omelet and egg and cheese and cookies and a scone and a muffin. They also have a gf coconut cookie which is yummy. We'll definitely stop here next time we're around. Keep up the awesome work. Had lunch there today with a buddy in town. The meatloaf is delicious."
"My friend and I meet at Simon's once a month and catch up for a couple of hours The food is fresh and delicious (a little pricey). They never make us feel like we're taking up space for too long. Everyone is very nice, always with smiles when they serve you. 💗🐦☀️ …"
"I had been reminiscing about their baguettes (lovingly called crack bread) for 13 years before finally returning... It lived up to the memory! As did the rest of their food! Such a sweet little market, I can't wait to be back in the area again for another visit... Hopefully less than 13 years from now!"
Hashtag Breakfast Fact's
Breakfast as a Family Ritual
Across generations, breakfast has remained a vital family ritual in Connecticut homes. Whether it’s a simple bowl of cereal or a weekend feast, gathering around the breakfast table fosters connection and communication among family members. This daily practice is an opportunity to share stories, discuss plans, and enjoy each other’s company before the day begins. As fast-paced lives become the norm, many still prioritize breakfast as a time to reconnect, demonstrating its lasting significance in nurturing family bonds and traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the baguette at Simon's special?
People often call it "crackbread" because it's especially crunchy and fresh. Reviewers say it’s true to a French recipe, so expect a crisp crust and a chewy, flavorful crumb that pairs well with sandwiches and butter.
Are the sandwiches at Simon's made to order or pre-made?
Most notes mention freshly made sandwiches like the Mayflower, Caprese and Pulled Pork. That means ingredients are assembled when you order, so sandwiches taste warm, layered and lively rather than soggy or prepacked.
Which cookies are most talked about?
Several reviewers praise the chocolate crinkle cookie as a top pick, plus snickerdoodles, cowboy "kitchen sink" cookies and an oatmeal cookie. The bakery selection leans classic and rich in flavor.
Do they serve any gluten-free bakery options?
A reviewer specifically mentions a gluten-free coconut cookie. For other GF items, the answer is: Not listed; call to confirm.
What are standout savory items besides sandwiches?
Reviewers highlight homemade meatloaf, fresh pasta sides, savory soups like creamy mushroom barley, and roasted Brussels sprouts — all described as hearty, home-cooked flavors with good seasoning.
How does the coffee taste?
Multiple reviewers praise the coffee, noting JIM’s organic coffee on offer and calling it delicious. Expect a balanced cup that pairs well with pastries and breakfast sandwiches.
Are there good vegetarian choices?
Yes. The Caprese sandwich, goat-cheese veggie omelet, salads like kale or pasta salad, and sides such as roasted Brussels sprouts are frequently mentioned and offer full-flavored vegetarian options.
What's a local favorite sandwich to try in Chester?
Locals often name the Mayflower "Thanksgiving" sandwich and the Caprese as favorites. Both are cited repeatedly for balanced flavors and generous fillings that make them standouts in town.
Do they have sweet breakfast pastries and muffins?
Yes. Reviews list scones, blueberry muffins, banana bread and large muffins, plus a variety of cookies and breads—plenty of sweet baked goods that pair well with morning coffee.
What pizzas are most popular at Simon's Marketplace?
From the menu, people often pick Cookies, Baguette, Omelet, Egg and Cheese, Caprese Sandwich, Scone. Reviews highlight consistency more than novelty, so these are safe, crowd-pleasing choices.
The Breakfast Evolution
Breakfast, or 'breaking the fast,' has come a long way from its humble roots. In colonial America, morning meals often featured simple porridge, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the time. Fast forward to the 19th century, where breakfast began to mirror social aspirations, with the wealthy indulging in lavish spreads. This shift marked a significant transformation in how people viewed the first meal of the day, as eating became not just about sustenance but also about status and comfort.
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Simon's Marketplace
Connecticut's Diner Culture
Connecticut is home to a rich diner culture that embodies the spirit of American breakfast. Starting in the mid-20th century, diners began serving hearty morning meals to early risers and late-night revelers alike. These affordable, satisfying options often include eggs, pancakes, and bagels, creating a cozy atmosphere where people gather to share their day. The presence of diners in Connecticut reflects a sense of community, where breakfast is not just a meal but a cherished social ritual.
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A Taste of Tradition
For centuries, breakfast in Connecticut has been influenced by diverse cultural traditions. Early settlers brought their European breakfast customs, leading to the introduction of various baked goods and hearty fare. By the 1800s, Connecticut kitchens were bustling with the smells of fresh bread, pastries, and even baked beans, showcasing an evolving palate. This blend of customs has created a unique breakfast culture that continues to thrive, paying homage to its historical roots while embracing modern trends.
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