Here are some of the Montclair, New Jersey, eateries that are worth a visit.
The Downtowns of Montclair
Montclair has three distinct downtown areas, each with its own unique character and charm. The Upper Montclair Downtown, located at the top of the mountain, is the oldest and most historic of the three.
Innovative Mediterranean cuisine takes center stage at Faubourg, where modern twists meet rich flavors and techniques.
The Birth of Faubourg
Faubourg, the newest addition to Montclair’s culinary scene, is a testament to the power of innovative cuisine. Located in the heart of the upscale neighborhood, this modern Mediterranean restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Olivier Muller and manager Dominique Paulin. Both Muller and Paulin have a storied past, having worked under the renowned Chef Daniel Boulud. Their experience in Boulud’s kitchens has undoubtedly shaped their culinary vision, as evident in the unique flavors and presentation of Faubourg’s dishes.
The Concept
Faubourg’s concept is built around the idea of modern Mediterranean cuisine, which blends the rich flavors and ingredients of the Mediterranean region with modern twists and techniques. The restaurant’s menu is designed to take diners on a culinary journey through the region, with dishes that are both familiar and innovative. From the grilled octopus with preserved lemon and olives to the lamb chops with preserved lemon and herbs, every dish is a reflection of the chefs’ passion for Mediterranean cuisine.
Key Ingredients and Techniques
Faubourg’s menu is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures, with a focus on using the freshest ingredients available.
Polished cooking meets easygoing charm in a culinary haven.
The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and olive oil is a match made in heaven. The dish is simple yet elegant, making it a staple in the restaurant’s menu.
The Art of Cooking at Faubourg
Faubourg is a restaurant that prides itself on its ability to balance polished cooking with an easygoing atmosphere. The chefs at Faubourg understand that a great dining experience is not just about the food, but also about the ambiance and the service. They strive to create a warm and inviting environment that makes guests feel at home. Key elements of the dining experience at Faubourg include: + A cozy and intimate atmosphere + Attentive and knowledgeable service + A menu that showcases a variety of flavors and techniques + A focus on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients
The Signature Dish: Camarão ao Alho e Óleo
The camarão ao alho e óleo is a dish that’s hard to forget.
He brings a unique blend of flavors and techniques to his dishes, which are both authentic and innovative. Samba is a small, family-owned restaurant that has been a staple in Montclair for over 20 years.
The Story Behind Samba
Samba’s story begins with Chef Meny Vaknin, who was born and raised in Israel. Growing up in a Moroccan Jewish family, Meny was exposed to a diverse range of flavors and cooking techniques from a young age. His mother, a skilled cook, taught him the art of traditional Moroccan cuisine, as well as the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
A Journey to Montclair
In the 1990s, Meny Vaknin made the decision to leave Israel and start a new life in the United States. He settled in Montclair, New Jersey, where he discovered a thriving food scene and a community eager for new and exciting culinary experiences.
Shared tables, shared traditions, and a taste of Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage.
The Concept of Mesob
Mesob is a unique dining experience that brings together the rich culinary traditions of Ethiopia. The concept of Mesob is rooted in the country’s cultural heritage, where food is not just a source of sustenance but an integral part of social gatherings and celebrations. In Ethiopia, food is served in a communal setting, where everyone gathers around a large platter of injera, sharing and passing dishes to each other.
The Role of Injera
Injera is the foundation of Ethiopian cuisine, and it plays a crucial role in the Mesob experience. This spongy flatbread is made from teff flour and has a slightly sour taste.
The menu is divided into sections, making it easy to navigate and find something that suits your taste.
Italian Classics
The menu is a love letter to Italy, with dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara, Chicken Parmesan, and Fettuccine Alfredo. These are all timeless favorites that never go out of style. The pasta dishes are cooked to perfection, with a perfect balance of sauce and noodles. The Chicken Parmesan is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a side of marinara sauce that’s tangy and flavorful.
Modern Twists
But Noce77 isn’t just about traditional Italian cuisine. The menu also features some modern American twists, like the Grilled Cheeseburger and the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich. These dishes are a great way to mix things up and try something new. The Grilled Cheeseburger is a gourmet take on a classic comfort food, with melted cheddar cheese and caramelized onions. The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is a sweet and tangy delight, with a side of coleslaw that’s creamy and refreshing.
Specialties
Noce77 also has some specialties that set it apart from other Italian restaurants. The Bruschetta is a must-try, with fresh tomatoes and basil that are perfectly balanced.
Cozy Cafe Serves Up Creative Brunch Favorites.
The Montclair Brunch Scene
Montclair, New Jersey, is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and Red Eye Cafe is a beloved institution that has been a mainstay for over 20 years. This cozy cafe has been consistently ranked as one of the top brunch spots in the area, attracting visitors from all over the to try its innovative dishes.
A Brief History
Red Eye Cafe was founded in 2001 by a group of friends who shared a passion for good food, good company, and a love for the classic diner experience. Over the years, the cafe has undergone several transformations, but its commitment to serving high-quality, creative dishes has remained unwavering.
The Brunch Menu
The brunch menu at Red Eye Cafe is a veritable love letter to the classics, with dishes like eggs benedict, pancakes, and waffles. However, it’s the creative twists that truly set Red Eye apart.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with a warm and inviting decor that makes you feel like you’re dining in a Tuscan villa. The menu features a variety of traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and risotto, all made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection.
The Menu: A Taste of Italy
The menu at Turtle + the Wolf is a love letter to Italy, with dishes that showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage. Here are some highlights:
The Atmosphere: A Cozy Italian Villa
Turtle + the Wolf’s atmosphere is a major part of its appeal. The restaurant’s decor is warm and inviting, with rustic stone walls, wooden beams, and vintage Italian posters. The lighting is dim and intimate, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The Service: Friendly and Attentive
The service at Turtle + the Wolf is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who are happy to answer questions and make recommendations.
For a taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene, visit the food hall at the historic 14th Street Y.
The Heart of Italian Comfort Food
Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, hearty portions, and comforting dishes that evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Salute, a beloved Italian restaurant in New York City, embodies this spirit with its classic Italian comfort food. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in the cozy atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria, complete with rustic decor and the enticing aromas of freshly baked bread.
A Taste of Italy
Salute’s menu is a love letter to Italy, featuring dishes that are both familiar and innovative. Some standout options include:
These dishes are more than just meals – they’re an experience. Each bite is a testament to the chef’s dedication to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Exploring the City’s Diverse Culinary Scene
New York City is a melting pot of cuisines, and Salute is just one of many restaurants that showcase the city’s incredible diversity.
