Business & Tech

Five Great Montclair Restaurant Reviews From 2011

If you didn't try these places in 2011, make sure to stop by in 2012

Melody Kettle did a lot of restaurant hopping in 2011 because, quite simply, there were a lot of restaurants coming and going this year. Here are just five of her reviews. If there's someplace we haven't hit—and should—let us know in the comments section below.

1) Since early October, local foodies have been quietly buzzing about Upper Montclair’s new bar and restaurant, Upstairs. Owned by Aki Kaneda, Upstairs is the metro-sexual, alter ego of the subdued Japanese restaurant, Dai Kichi, that Aki has quietly operated for 24 years and counting. See the review here.

2) Earlier this year, a great new "artisanal delicatessen" opened in Upper Montclair Plaza in the space that formerly housed Tallmadge Cheese Market. Little Phil's is a lovely place, where customers can select from a vast array of traditional Italian food like meatballs, rice balls (arancini), broccoli rabe, portabella mushrooms, capellini pie, cavatelli salad, and braised short ribs. See the review here.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

3) Brazilian fare came to Montclair earlier this month. After months of preparation, Samba Montclair hosted its soft opening in the space at 7 Park St. Samba seamlessly blends the old with the new, resulting in a warm, intimate, amd elegantly simplistic atmosphere. See the review here.

4) Salute is not brand new but it's still fairly new, offering a good meal in comfortable environs. The restaurant specializes in "Italian Countryside Cuisine" that's served by a staff that makes you feel like part of the family. See the review here. 

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

5) The Office on Bloomfield Ave. warrants a mention just because it's changed so much. Indeed, The Office has recently reintroduced itself to the Montclair community with an updated interior and, most importantly, a revamped menu that’s fresher and lighter than that of most pubs. There's also a great new brunch menu. See the review here.

 


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here