Sylvania has a flavorful new gem on the map—Marcel’s, a charming European-inspired bistro tucked into Saxon Square on Sylvania Avenue near McCord Road. Owner and chef Marcel Hesseling is no stranger to the Toledo dining scene, with a resume that includes top roles at Diva (remember that Downtown favorite?) and the Toledo Country Club. Now, he’s striking out on his own with a cozy, chef-driven restaurant that’s already turning heads.
Sophisticated, cozy, and full of charm
Marcel’s makes a strong first impression with sleek dark wood, muted tones of gray and black, and a welcoming layout that includes a five-seat bar and high-top for small groups. It’s the kind of place that feels just right for date night or catching up with friends over a leisurely lunch or dinner.
The menu is focused and intentional—every dish feels like it’s there for a reason. Hesseling sources high-quality meats and seafood, and it shows in the flavors. Service is warm and helpful, though a little more polish at the table could elevate the experience even further.
The atmosphere strikes a great balance—modern and polished, with the hum of the kitchen, gentle background music and just enough energy from fellow diners to feel lively without being loud.
Creative bites and crowd-pleasers
Starters range from $12 to $18 and include a nod to the chef’s Dutch roots with bitterballen—crispy bites of chopped beef tenderloin with onions and spices. Other standouts include filet tips with hummus, grilled lamb chops with a watermelon relish, calamari, and a flavorful tahini spinach dip.
Soups and salads bring color and variety to the table. A rotating soup
of the day recently featured squash, cumin and coconut—light, warm,
and beautifully balanced. The French onion soup is a menu staple, made with a 48-hour house stock. Salad lovers can choose from fresh combinations like a cucumber-wrapped house salad, Caesar, watermelon- orange, and spinach-apple-walnut— with optional protein add-ons like chicken, salmon, shrimp, or beef. Prices range from $8 to $14.
Big flavors in every entrée
Entrées ($22 to $43) showcase Hesseling’s flair for layering flavors in creative but approachable ways. Grilled salmon comes with a tiny quiche and garlic-sautéed spinach. Halibut is paired with summer vegetables, while Mediterranean chicken rests over pan-seared veggies.
Beef lovers have plenty to love— filet mignon in multiple sizes, a New York strip, and the showstopper: Korean BBQ steak. This USDA Prime cut is grilled medium rare, sliced and served with sesame caramelized Brussels sprouts and rice noodles. It’s bold, balanced, and unforgettable.
The menu shifts with the seasons – the new spring menu was introduced in mid May, but one thing stays the same—Hesseling’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients and bold, clean flavors.
Save room for dessert
Dessert options rotate, but you might find panna cotta, strawberry shortcake, or classic tiramisu—each portioned just right to finish off the meal without going overboard. A small but curated beer and wine list offers pairing options, with several beers on tap and standout wines by
the glass or bottle.
A new go-to for Sylvania diners
Whether you’re planning a relaxed lunch, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration, Marcel’s is the kind of place you’ll want to come back to. With its thoughtful menu, welcoming vibe and skilled kitchen, it’s more than just a new restaurant—it’s a delicious reason to dine out in Sylvania.
Marcel’s
Saxon Square
6600 Sylvania Ave.
(just east of McCord Rd.)
www.marcels419.com
(419) 517-4571
Hours
Wed.-Thurs. 5-9pm
Friday-Saturday 5-10pm
