17 Best Restaurants In Montclair, NJ: Top Dining Spots (Ultimate Guide)

Montclair, New Jersey, is a haven for foodies and culinary enthusiasts alike.

This charming town is bursting with culinary delights, ranging from upscale eateries to homegrown restaurants serving up comfort food favorites.

Whether you’re a local looking for your next go-to spot or a visitor looking to explore the town’s diverse food scene, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’re bringing you the best restaurants in Montclair, NJ. From Italian to Vietnamese, we’ve scoured the town to bring you our top picks.

Get ready to indulge your taste buds and discover your new favorite food spot.

Best Restaurants in Montclair, NJ

Montclair is known for its vibrant culinary scene, offering a wide variety of dining experiences. Here is a detailed guide on some of the best restaurants in Montclair, NJ:

1. Faubourg Restaurant and Bar

Faubourg Restaurant and Bar offers an elegant French dining experience in Montclair. Some highlights include:

Ambiance: The restaurant boasts a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere, complete with modern decor that exudes elegance. A beautiful outdoor patio provides the perfect setting for a relaxing meal during warmer months.

Menu: Faubourg’s menu offers a delightful blend of classic French cuisine and contemporary flavors. Diners can enjoy dishes such as escargots, bouillabaisse, and steak frites, all expertly prepared to please the palate.

Drinks: Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the impressive wine list, which focuses primarily on French selections. Additionally, the restaurant offers a variety of craft cocktails and beers to suit all tastes.

Events: To enhance the dining experience, Faubourg regularly hosts special events like wine tastings and live music performances. These events create a lively atmosphere and provide an opportunity for guests to mingle and socialize.

Service: The attentive and knowledgeable staff at Faubourg are dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable dining experience.

Price Range: While prices at Faubourg fall within the moderate to high range, the quality of food and ambiance make it well worth the expense.

Reservations: Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended, particularly for weekends or special events. This ensures that you secure a table and can fully enjoy your dining experience without any delays.

Location: 544 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

2. Turtle + the Wolf

Turtle + the Wolf is a unique restaurant that combines American and European flavors. Key features of this restaurant are:

Ambiance: The restaurant features a cozy and intimate setting with rustic decor, making it an ideal choice for a casual date night or a relaxed dinner with friends.

Menu: Turtle + the Wolf’s menu consists of seasonal, farm-to-table dishes that change regularly to keep things fresh and exciting. Guests can savor delicious options such as braised short ribs, seared scallops, and homemade pasta.

Drinks: Alongside the creative menu, the restaurant offers a curated wine list, local craft beers, and handcrafted cocktails, ensuring there’s something to please every palate.

Awards: Turtle + the Wolf has garnered numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the best new restaurants in New Jersey. This attests to the high quality of the food and overall dining experience.

Service: The friendly and attentive staff at Turtle + the Wolf are committed to providing a memorable dining experience, ensuring that guests leave satisfied and eager to return.

Price Range: With moderate prices and options for every budget, Turtle + the Wolf is an accessible choice for diners seeking a unique culinary experience.

Reservations: As the restaurant tends to get busy on weekends, reservations are recommended to secure your table and avoid waiting times.

Location: 622 Valley Road, Montclair, NJ 07043.

---

3. Ani Ramen House Montclair

Ani Ramen House Montclair is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering delectable ramen and Japanese comfort food in a lively setting. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Ambiance: The restaurant features a bustling atmosphere with communal seating and an open kitchen, allowing guests to watch as their meals are expertly prepared.

Menu: Ani Ramen House Montclair’s menu includes a variety of ramen bowls, bao buns, and other Japanese dishes. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.

Drinks: To complement the flavorful dishes, the restaurant offers an array of Japanese beers, sake, and creative cocktails crafted with Japanese ingredients.

Popularity: Ani Ramen House Montclair is often busy, with lines forming outside during peak hours, which speaks to the popularity and quality of the food.

Service: The service at Ani Ramen House Montclair is fast and efficient, making it an ideal option for those seeking a quick and delicious meal.

Price Range: With affordable prices and generous portion sizes, Ani Ramen House Montclair provides excellent value for money.

Reservations: The restaurant does not accept reservations and operates on a walk-in basis only. This ensures that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the tasty offerings at Ani Ramen House Montclair.

Location: 401 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

4. De Novo European Pub

De Novo European Pub offers a modern twist on traditional European pub fare. The key features include:

Ambiance: The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, featuring rustic decor elements such as exposed brick walls and reclaimed wood. This cozy setting makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Menu: De Novo European Pub’s diverse menu includes dishes from various European countries, allowing guests to savor favorites like fish and chips, schnitzel, and risotto, among others.

Drinks: To accompany the delicious food, the restaurant offers a wide selection of European beers, wines, and specialty cocktails that perfectly complement the diverse menu.

Events: De Novo European Pub regularly hosts live music performances, trivia nights, and happy hour specials, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for patrons to enjoy.

Service: The friendly and attentive staff at De Novo European Pub strive to create a welcoming environment, ensuring that guests feel at home and well taken care of during their visit.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and a variety of dishes to suit different budgets, De Novo European Pub offers excellent value for those seeking a unique dining experience.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted and recommended for larger groups or special events, ensuring that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at De Novo European Pub.

Location: 275 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043.

---

5. Egan & Sons

This traditional Irish pub in Montclair, NJ, offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy classic Irish fare and drinks. Highlights include:

Ambiance: The pub features a genuine Irish setting, complete with dark wood furnishings and a cozy fireplace, creating an inviting environment for guests to unwind and socialize.

Menu: The menu includes classic Irish dishes such as shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and bangers and mash, alongside American pub favorites to cater to a variety of tastes.

Drinks: Patrons can choose from a wide selection of beers, including Irish favorites like Guinness and a range of craft beers. A full bar is also available, offering an extensive array of beverages to suit all preferences.

Events: The pub regularly hosts live music performances, trivia nights, and sports screenings, providing entertainment and fostering a lively atmosphere for guests to enjoy.

Service: The friendly and attentive staff at this traditional Irish pub are dedicated to making guests feel at home, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and options to suit all budgets, this Irish pub offers excellent value for those seeking a taste of Ireland in Montclair.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted, particularly for larger groups or special events, to ensure that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at the pub.

Location: 118 Walnut Street, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

6. Laboratorio Kitchen

Laboratorio Kitchen is a contemporary restaurant in Montclair, NJ, specializing in New American cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.

Ambiance: The restaurant features a modern and stylish interior, complete with an open kitchen concept that allows guests to witness the culinary artistry in action.

Menu: Laboratorio Kitchen’s menu boasts creative dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality. Guests can savor options such as pan-seared scallops, braised short ribs, and handmade pasta, all expertly prepared to please the palate.

Drinks: Complementing the innovative menu is a carefully-curated wine list, a selection of craft beers, and inventive cocktails that cater to a variety of tastes.

Service: The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Laboratorio Kitchen are dedicated to providing excellent service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable dining experience.

Price Range: While prices at Laboratorio Kitchen fall within the moderate to high range, the quality of food and ambiance make it well worth the expense.

Reservations: Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended, particularly for weekends or special events. This ensures that you secure a table and can fully enjoy your dining experience without any delays.

Location: 615 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

7. Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant

Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant in Montclair, NJ, provides a unique dining experience featuring authentic Ethiopian cuisine.

Ambiance: The restaurant offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere adorned with traditional Ethiopian decor, creating an inviting and culturally immersive setting.

Menu: Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant’s menu includes a variety of Ethiopian dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options available, all served with the customary injera bread. This allows guests to enjoy a true taste of Ethiopia.

Drinks: To complement the flavorful dishes, the restaurant serves Ethiopian coffee, honey wine, and a selection of beers and wines, catering to a range of preferences.

Service: The warm and welcoming staff at Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant are happy to explain the menu and Ethiopian customs to guests, ensuring a memorable and educational dining experience.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and generous portion sizes, Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant offers excellent value for those seeking to explore Ethiopian cuisine.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted and recommended for larger groups, ensuring that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant.

Location: 515 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

8. Samba Montclair

Samba Montclair is a delightful Brazilian restaurant in Montclair, NJ, that brings the flavors of authentic home-style cooking to your plate.

Ambiance: The restaurant features a charming, rustic atmosphere adorned with colorful artwork and warm lighting, creating a cozy and inviting dining space.

Menu: Samba Montclair’s menu offers traditional Brazilian dishes, such as feijoada, moqueca, and picanha, providing patrons with a genuine taste of Brazilian cuisine.

Drinks: To enhance the dining experience, the restaurant serves Brazilian-inspired cocktails, wines, and beers, ensuring there’s a perfect beverage to pair with each flavorful dish.

Service: The friendly and attentive staff at Samba Montclair are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment, ensuring that each guest feels at home and well taken care of during their visit.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and options to suit every budget, Samba Montclair provides excellent value for those seeking an authentic Brazilian culinary experience.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted, particularly for weekends or special events, to ensure that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at Samba Montclair.

Location: 7 Park Street, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

9. Saveur Creole

Saveur Creole is a delightful Haitian restaurant in Montclair, NJ, that brings the unique flavors of the Caribbean to your table.

Ambiance: The restaurant boasts a casual and inviting atmosphere, adorned with colorful artwork and Haitian decor, creating a vibrant and enjoyable dining space.

Menu: Saveur Creole’s menu features traditional Haitian dishes, such as griot, legume, and tasso, allowing patrons to savor the authentic taste of Haitian cuisine.

Drinks: Complementing the flavorful dishes, the restaurant offers tropical cocktails, wines, and beers, ensuring there’s a perfect beverage to pair with each delicious meal.

Service: The warm and friendly staff at Saveur Creole are committed to providing excellent service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and satisfying dining experience.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and generous portion sizes, Saveur Creole offers excellent value for those seeking a taste of authentic Caribbean cuisine.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted and recommended for larger groups or special events, to ensure that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at Saveur Creole.

Location: 131 Grove Street, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

10. The Corner

The Corner is a cozy neighborhood cafe in Montclair, NJ, offering delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options for patrons to enjoy.

• Ambiance: The cafe features a bright and cheerful atmosphere, complete with comfortable seating and an outdoor patio, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal or gathering with friends.
• Menu: The Corner’s menu offers classic American dishes made with fresh ingredients, including omelettes, sandwiches, and salads, ensuring a satisfying meal for every guest.
• Drinks: To accompany the tasty food, the cafe serves a variety of coffee beverages, teas, and smoothies, catering to a range of preferences.
• Service: The friendly and efficient staff at The Corner are committed to providing a pleasant dining experience, ensuring that each guest feels welcome and well taken care of.
• Price Range: With affordable pricing and options to suit every budget, The Corner offers excellent value for those seeking a delightful meal in a relaxed setting.
• Reservations: While reservations are not required, it’s worth noting that the cafe can get busy during peak hours. Arriving early or visiting during off-peak times can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Location: 115 Grove Street, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

11. Ray’s Luncheonette

Ray’s Luncheonette is a classic American diner in Montclair, NJ, offering all-day breakfast and lunch options for patrons seeking a taste of nostalgia.

Ambiance: The diner features a nostalgic atmosphere with retro decor and counter seating, transporting guests back to the golden age of American diners.

Menu: Ray’s Luncheonette serves traditional diner fare, such as pancakes, burgers, and sandwiches, ensuring a satisfying and comforting meal for every guest.

Drinks: To accompany the delicious food, the diner offers coffee, milkshakes, and soft drinks, catering to a range of preferences.

Service: The friendly and efficient staff at Ray’s Luncheonette are committed to providing quick service, ensuring that each guest enjoys a pleasant dining experience.

Price Range: With affordable pricing and generous portion sizes, Ray’s Luncheonette offers excellent value for those seeking a classic American diner experience.

Reservations: While reservations are not required, it’s worth noting that the diner can get busy during peak hours. Arriving early or visiting during off-peak times can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Location: 99 Walnut Street, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

12. Zeugma Mediterranean Grill

Zeugma Mediterranean Grill is a delightful dining destination in Montclair, NJ, offering a delicious selection of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes.

Ambiance: The restaurant features a modern and stylish interior with comfortable seating, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meal.

Menu: Zeugma Mediterranean Grill’s menu includes a variety of Mediterranean favorites, such as kebabs, falafel, and hummus, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying experience for every patron.

Drinks: To complement the delectable dishes, the restaurant offers a selection of wines, beers, and cocktails, catering to a range of tastes and preferences.

Service: The attentive and knowledgeable staff at Zeugma Mediterranean Grill are dedicated to providing excellent service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and options to suit every budget, Zeugma Mediterranean Grill offers excellent value for those seeking a taste of authentic Mediterranean cuisine.

Reservations: Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekends or special events, to ensure that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at Zeugma Mediterranean Grill.

Location: 44 South Park Street, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

13. Greek Taverna

Greek Taverna is a popular dining destination in Montclair, NJ, for those seeking authentic Greek cuisine in a warm and inviting setting.

Ambiance: The restaurant features a cozy atmosphere adorned with traditional Greek decor, creating a welcoming environment for guests to enjoy their meal.

Menu: Greek Taverna’s menu offers classic Greek dishes, such as souvlaki, moussaka, and grilled octopus, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying experience for every patron.

Drinks: To complement the delicious dishes, the restaurant serves an array of Greek wines, beers, and specialty cocktails, catering to a range of tastes and preferences.

Service: The friendly and attentive staff at Greek Taverna are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and a variety of dishes to suit different budgets, Greek Taverna offers excellent value for those seeking a taste of authentic Greek cuisine.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted and recommended for larger groups or special events, to ensure that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at Greek Taverna.

Location: 292 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

14. Le Salbuen Cafe Market

Le Salbuen Cafe Market is a charming European-style cafe in Montclair, NJ, offering delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.

Ambiance: The cafe features a cozy and intimate setting with rustic decor and outdoor seating, creating a perfect atmosphere for casual dining or catching up with friends.

Menu: Le Salbuen Cafe Market’s menu offers fresh, organic, and locally-sourced dishes, such as quiches, sandwiches, and salads, ensuring a wholesome and satisfying meal for every guest.

Drinks: To accompany the delightful food, the cafe serves a variety of coffee beverages, teas, and a selection of wines and beers, catering to a range of preferences.

Service: The friendly and attentive staff at Le Salbuen Cafe Market are committed to providing a memorable dining experience, ensuring that each guest feels welcome and well taken care of.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and options to suit every budget, Le Salbuen Cafe Market offers excellent value for those seeking a delightful European-style cafe experience.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted for dinner service and larger groups, ensuring that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at the cafe.

Location: 97 Walnut Street, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

15. Vital Dining

Vital Dining is a trendy dining destination in Montclair, NJ, offering a modern twist on traditional Jamaican cuisine in a stylish setting.

Ambiance: The restaurant features a contemporary and vibrant atmosphere, adorned with colorful artwork, creating an inviting and enjoyable dining space.

Menu: Vital Dining’s menu includes classic Jamaican dishes with a modern twist, such as jerk chicken, oxtail, and curry goat, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying experience for every patron.

Drinks: To complement the delicious dishes, the restaurant offers tropical cocktails, wines, and beers, catering to a range of tastes and preferences.

Service: The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Vital Dining are dedicated to providing excellent service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and generous portion sizes, Vital Dining offers excellent value for those seeking a taste of contemporary Jamaican cuisine.

Reservations: Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekends or special events, to ensure that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at Vital Dining.

Location: 387 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

16. MishMish Cafe

MishMish Cafe is a Mediterranean-inspired cafe in Montclair, NJ, offering delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options.

Ambiance: The cafe features a casual and inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating, creating a perfect setting for a relaxed meal or gathering with friends.

Menu: MishMish Cafe’s menu offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, such as shakshuka, falafel, and kebabs, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying experience for every guest.

Drinks: To accompany the delightful food, the cafe serves a variety of coffee beverages, teas, and a selection of wines and beers, catering to a range of preferences.

Service: The friendly and efficient staff at MishMish Cafe are committed to providing a pleasant dining experience, ensuring that each guest feels welcome and well taken care of.

Price Range: With moderate pricing and options to suit every budget, MishMish Cafe offers excellent value for those seeking a delightful Mediterranean-inspired cafe experience.

Reservations: Reservations are accepted for dinner service and larger groups, ensuring that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at the cafe.

Location: 215 Glenridge Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

17. Osteria Prime 151

Osteria Prime 151 is a sophisticated Italian restaurant in Montclair, NJ, offering classic dishes in a modern and stylish setting.

Ambiance: The restaurant features a sophisticated atmosphere with contemporary decor, creating an elegant and inviting dining space for guests to enjoy.

Menu: Osteria Prime 151’s menu includes traditional Italian dishes, such as pasta, risotto, and veal, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying experience for every patron.

Drinks: To complement the delicious dishes, the restaurant offers an extensive wine list, as well as a selection of beers and cocktails, catering to a range of tastes and preferences.

Service: The attentive and knowledgeable staff at Osteria Prime 151 are dedicated to providing excellent service, ensuring that each guest has a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.

Price Range: With moderate to high pricing, Osteria Prime 151 is worth it for the quality of food and ambiance, offering an excellent value for those seeking an exquisite Italian dining experience.

Reservations: Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekends or special events, to ensure that all guests can be comfortably accommodated and enjoy their time at Osteria Prime 151.

Location: 151 Valley Road, Montclair, NJ 07042.

---

These additional restaurants offer even more variety in Montclair’s dining scene, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Factors when planning to dine out in Montclair, NJ:

When planning a dine-out in Montclair, NJ, there are several things to consider to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Type of cuisine

• Research local restaurants: Montclair has a diverse culinary scene, so explore your options and choose a type of cuisine that appeals to you and your dining companions.
• Dietary restrictions: Consider any dietary needs or preferences within your group, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options.
• Budget: Determine your budget for the meal and find a restaurant that offers menu items within your price range.
• Authenticity: If you’re looking to try a specific type of cuisine, seek out an authentic eatery that showcases the true flavors and dishes of that culture.
• Specials and promotions: Look for restaurants offering special deals or promotions, such as happy hour specials or prix fixe menus, to enhance your dining experience.

Location and atmosphere

• Proximity: Choose a restaurant that is conveniently located near your home or workplace, or in an area you’d like to explore.
• Ambience: Consider the atmosphere you’d prefer for your dine-out, whether it’s a casual cafe, a lively bar, or an upscale fine-dining restaurant.
• Outdoor seating: If weather permits, look for a restaurant with outdoor seating options for a more enjoyable al fresco experience.
• Noise level: Keep in mind the noise level of the restaurant, especially if you’re planning a business meeting or a quiet dinner with friends.
• Décor and theme: Pick a restaurant with an appealing aesthetic and interior design that complements the overall dining experience.

Reviews and recommendations

• Online reviews: Check online review platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews to gauge the overall satisfaction of previous customers.
• Word of mouth: Ask friends, family, or colleagues for their personal recommendations and favorite spots in Montclair.
• Social media: Browse the restaurant’s social media pages to get a sense of their menu offerings, atmosphere, and customer experiences.
• Food blogs and articles: Look for local food blogs or articles featuring Montclair restaurants to discover new and trendy dining options.
• Award-winning establishments: Seek out restaurants that have received awards or accolades, as they may offer a higher quality dining experience.

Reservations and wait times

• Reservation policy: Determine if the restaurant accepts reservations and, if so, make one to secure your spot.
• Peak hours: Be aware of peak dining hours, which may result in longer wait times or limited seating availability.
• Large groups: If you’re dining with a large group, ensure the restaurant can accommodate your party size and provide a comfortable seating arrangement.
• Special requests: Communicate any special requests or needs when making your reservation, such as wheelchair accessibility or a specific table location.
• Cancellation policy: Familiarize yourself with the restaurant’s cancellation policy in case your plans change.

Additional services and amenities

• Parking: Research the parking situation near the restaurant, including street parking, parking lots, or valet services.
• Public transportation: If you’re not driving, consider the accessibility of public transportation to and from the restaurant.
• Takeout and delivery: Inquire about takeout or delivery options if you’d prefer to enjoy your meal at home or in a nearby park.
• Wi-Fi availability: Check if the restaurant offers free Wi-Fi access, especially if you’re planning a working lunch or meeting.
• Special events and entertainment: Look for restaurants that host live music, trivia nights, or other special events to add extra excitement to your dine-out experience.

Final Verdict

Montclair’s dining scene is vibrant and eclectic, offering something for everyone.

From classic American fare to Mediterranean specialties, there is a multitude of restaurants to choose from with price ranges to suit all budgets.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an upscale experience, Montclair has it all.

With such an impressive selection of eateries, you’ll never be at a loss for where to dine in this charming New Jersey town.

FAQs