Baristanet Foodtag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//62008-09-18T21:51:34ZMovable Type 3.31Fresh from the Farmtag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.96372008-09-18T18:45:24Z2008-09-18T21:51:34ZThe premise of Farm2Bistro, a new restaurant in Nutley, is intriguing enough: get food as locally as possible and cook it up right away. Owner-chef Michael Madigan Jr., who also runs Snails to Quails, a supplier to New York yacht...Debbie Galant
Farm2Bistro, a new restaurant in Nutley, is intriguing enough: get food as locally as possible and cook it up right away. Owner-chef Michael Madigan Jr., who also runs Snails to Quails, a supplier to New York yacht kitchens, searches the farmers market circuit each morning, then comes back to cook the food at night.
But Farm2Bistro is an experience even before you taste your first bite. You walk into the funky Nutley restaurant, where four leather-upholstered picnic tables and a palm-frond canopy await you, and Madigan immediately greets you, wants to know how you found out about his restaurant and sits down at your table like your new best friend. He asks if you like ice tea after you nod yes, goes to a candy/tea bar to mix you a concoction. I was served black oolong tea with cranberry half-sweet, my son Noah got mango-kiwi-raspberry with Gummi bears, and Mista Barista was served raspberry full sweet. Mind you, we didn't ask for these combinations. Madigan sized us up, brought us our teas, and we were all happy.
All this makes the experience fun, but the real thrill of the restaurant comes with your first bite.
I got the pork loin (special that day), which came with roasted carrots and potatoes and a little mound of something green, which turned out to be sauteed arugula. For some reason, I tried a carrot first, and I can honestly say that was the best carrot I've ever eaten in my life. I could have eaten a whole plate with just those carrots and left the restaurant a happy camper. But then I tried the sauteed arugula, which makes you wonder why anybody bothers with it as a salad in the first place. The pork loin, encrusted in herbs, was fabulously savory.]]>
Noah, a vegetarian, tried the chicken quesadilla -- without the chicken. We were warned that the quesadilla was merely a wrap, but it came toasted (a great idea for wraps, why don't more restaurants try that?) and each bite offered a melange of densely packed vegetables and amazing seasonings. Mista Barista's Sunflower Chicken, a sunflower-seed encrusted and served in a honey-lime sauce, was also a winner.
We all sat there in a state of bliss, marveling that this little unassuming restaurant, where the most expensive item on the menu is $17 and you eat at picnic tables, could have served us one of the best meals we've ever had at a local restaurant. "Do you think this is what it's like to eat on a farm?" Noah asked.
Madigan has stumbled onto a restaurant concept that feeds all kinds of politically-correct notions of supporting local business and environmental sustainability. But as his website says, "There are many reasons to buy local, but the best reason is flavor." It remains to be seen whether he can make it in what he calls "the pizza triangle" (the Weehawken chef ought to have chosen Montclair), and what will happen in November when the farmers markets close. Madigan says when that happens, he'll have to travel southward to Delaware and eventually Georgia. "We seek the farmers and growers closest to New Jersey."
On Tuesday nights, your dining experience is augmented by the keyboard and guitar duo of Mark Walsh and James O'Malley. It's worth it just to see O'Malley's improbable guitar.
And then there's the bathroom. A light goes on when you walk in, and you read a sign explaining that the lights are motion-activated. It warns you that if the lights go off while you're in there, all you have to do is wave your hands. Well they did, and I did. But sitting in the pitch black there for a moment before the lights went back on was just another reminder that I'd finally found a restaurant in Baristaville where the surprises never end.
Or as they say, from the sublime to the ridiculous.
Farm2Bistro, 177 Franklin Ave., Nutley, NJ 973.667.3276.]]>
Cupcake Fixtag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.95462008-09-02T18:51:50Z2008-09-02T19:28:48ZTipsters sent us a note about Mr. Cupcakes. You Baristaville people need to check out the amazing cupcakes at Mr. Cupcakes here in neighboring Clifton! I just had one and it's definitely worth the trip. I brought the experts --...Liz Georgehttp://www.baristanet.com
Mr. Cupcakes.
You Baristaville people need to check out the amazing cupcakes at Mr. Cupcakes here in neighboring Clifton!
I just had one and it's definitely worth the trip.
I brought the experts -- my two kids -- to check out the goods. Finding the place was easy (take Grove past Rte.3 to Van Houten, make a right). Choosing a cupcake was more of a challenge -- the menu has a list of both tried and true "executives" as well as interns lobbying for permanent status. If a Reese's peanut butter cup could be reincarnated as a cupcake, it would be Mr. Cupcake's Peanut Butterful Chocolate. My son loved the Average Joe (yellow cake, chocolate frosting) as well as the Triple Chocolate, which had a bittersweet dark chocolate frosting. My daughter swooned over the Carrot Cake and the S'mores. The cupcakes, at a $1.50 each, are dense and satisfying (you'll want to eat two, but you won't have room). Split them so you can try a couple flavors.
Mr. Cupcakes, 1216 Van Houten Ave., Clifton, 973-859-0180.]]>
With Art, But Not Ricetag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.95252008-08-28T18:17:19Z2008-08-28T18:32:51ZYou really want to root for FAWA, the new Upper Montclair restaurant whose name is an acronym for French Asian With Art. The restaurant is attractive, minimalistic and sleek, with interesting lighting and shiny surfaces that somehow manage to convey...Debbie Galant
You really want to root for FAWA, the new Upper Montclair restaurant whose name is an acronym for French Asian With Art. The restaurant is attractive, minimalistic and sleek, with interesting lighting and shiny surfaces that somehow manage to convey "Zen" and "money" simultaneously. And who could object to a new sushi restaurant in town that also offers some grownup dinner plates like sea bass and and filet mignon?
The problem with FAWA is not with the taste. To start, we chose edamame and the yellowtail sashimi with jalapeno appetizer, a melt-in-your-mouth experience with just the right amount of kick. And for the main course, we had grilled Chilean sea bass and tropical lobster. The lobster came in a sauce that married sweet tropical fruit juices with green curry, and the sea bass came piled on a tight little pile of mushroom, asparagus and champagne sauce. Both dishes were colorful, tasty and distressingly petite. And neither came with rice, or anything else.
At most restaurants, these main-course meals might pass as appetizers, and you would be delighted to start a meal this way. But these were intended -- and priced -- as main courses. At the end of our meal, I was as hungry as when I'd started. I couldn't imagine what a steak-and-potatoes man might make of the repast.
So we ordered more.
Dai-Kichi, Montclair's first sushi restaurant, with a sign boasting its 20th anniversary. It is hard to imagine FAWA making it to such a ripe old age.
FAWA is located at 605 Valley Road, Upper Montclair. 973.233.1688.
]]>
James Beard Honors For Montclair Cheftag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.94632008-08-18T18:19:33Z2008-08-18T18:28:20ZPassionne keeps racking up accolades. First a command performance cooking for presidents; now this, from a reader... I wanted to let you know that I was recently at the James Beard Foundation for a dinner on Tuesday night, with much...Liz Georgehttp://www.baristanet.com
Passionne keeps racking up accolades. First a command performance cooking for presidents; now this, from a reader...
I wanted to let you know that I was recently at the James Beard Foundation for a dinner on Tuesday night, with much to my surprise, a local restaurateur was featured. Chef Carrino from Restaurant Passionne was the hosting chef and let me tell you, this meal was the best meal I've ever had at the James Beard House. My husband and I go twice a month and this just set us beside ourselves. The food paired w/ the wines couldn't have been better matched, truly spectacular. The chef was so humble to the attendees compliments and answered our questions without missing a beat.
He had a great team with him from the Exec Chef at Montauk Country Club all the way to the Chef du Cuisine at the Williamsburg Inn. Seems as though his team was chefs and mentors he's worked with in the past.
Listed below is the menu I brought home. Some of these items are staples on the restaurants menu I suppose, but every dish left me wishing it was full large portions, I've already made my next reservation.
]]>
Baked Kumamoto Oysters with Fennel, Spinach, and Pernod
Pissaladière
Grilled Pineapple Wrapped with Housemade Duck Prosciutto
Yellowfin Tuna Poke
Duck Fat–Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Domaine du Vieux Pressoir Saumur Rosé 2006
Capon and Duck Galantine with Pistachio, Lentil Salad, and Jus
Domaine Jean Touzot Macon Villages Chardonnay 2006
Pan-Seared Halibut with Forbidden Rice, Shallot Fondue, and Beurre Rouge
Fritz Underground Winery Russian River Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Crispy Sweetbreads with Caramelized Shallot–Dijon Beurre Blanc, Sweet Corn, and Fire-Roasted Red Pepper Relish
Domaine Thomas Saint-Véran 2006
Roasted Housemade Bacon–Wrapped Monkfish Loin with Crawfish Gratin and Roasted Tomato Choron Sauce
JM Raffault Chinon Rouge 2005
Strawberry Devonshire Tart with Balsamic Ice Cream
Audry Réserve Spéciale Fine Champagne
]]>
Joey Thaitag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.94092008-08-08T20:07:20Z2008-08-08T20:12:13ZIf you blink driving by the new Joey Thai, you'll miss it altogether. Qualifying as a "hole in the wall" restaurant only because of its diminutive size, it's a pleasant enough, clean, make-your-own-atmosphere kind of place. Excited at the idea...Annette Batsonhttp://www.baristanet.com
If you blink driving by the new Joey Thai, you'll miss it altogether. Qualifying as a "hole in the wall" restaurant only because of its diminutive size, it's a pleasant enough, clean, make-your-own-atmosphere kind of place. Excited at the idea of new Thai on Bloomfield Avenue, we ran over to check the menu and meet Joey - a charming restaurateur - and a high rent refugee from NYC. Joey, psyched about his new two-week old Montclair eatery, tells us "I'll cook whatever you want...you want a special fish dish, stuffed angel wings (not on the menu)? Just call me a day ahead and I'll make it."
Our first taste of Joey Thai was a special order giant-size portion of take-out chicken pad thai. This was a winner - moist, flavorful, packed with chunks of chicken - voraciously devoured at our picnic.
You're going to like the prices here: seafood dishes top out at $13.95, while most plates hover much lower. We didn't hold back, but still the bill for seven only came to seventy-something bucks before tip. Dining here is no-frills thrills if you choose wisely. The ample menu included Thai salads, whole fish, noodle and rice dishes. At lunch, Joey Thai serves specials and noodle soups for $6 and $7. Open for lunch and dinner daily, take out and delivery. 338 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair. 973-509-7700.]]>
Found! Soup Dumplings!tag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.93452008-07-28T19:40:48Z2008-07-28T21:38:14ZSure, they look like (well, I don't have to tell you), but these little Shanghai sacks of pork and broth filled goodness have bewitched me ever since I tried them in Elmhurst, Queens. Commonly known as soup dumplings, they are...Liz Georgehttp://www.baristanet.com
soup dumplings, they are found in Chinatown of course, and Flushing, Queens, but so far, I had no luck finding them in NJ, until I read about them here. The place is Hunan Cottage, on Rte 46 East, in Fairfield (look for a panda sculpture outside). Inside, ask for the other menu (the one that doesn't have items like Three Happiest or other Americanized staples). This menu (thankfully in English) is the one that the mostly Chinese crowd was ordering from. In addition to the soup dumplings, we had an amazing jumbo shrimp and squid with basil, and a pork with Chinese celery that was spicy in a good way.
Folks rave about Hunan Cottage here and here, too. BYOB.
Hunan Cottage, 14 US Highway 46 East, Fairfield, (973) 808-8328, (973) 575-6158]]>
Bartoni's Brunches Outtag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.92302008-07-16T16:56:53Z2008-07-16T17:19:12ZWhen we first visited Joe Bartoni's we were charmed by the old world Italian market, its sumptuous sandwiches, and take-out dinners. We became habitual drop-ins, stocking up on their home-made mozzarella, vodka sauce, eggplant rollatini and Balthazar's baked breads; my...Annette Batsonhttp://www.baristanet.com
When we first visited Joe Bartoni's we were charmed by the old world Italian market, its sumptuous sandwiches, and take-out dinners. We became habitual drop-ins, stocking up on their home-made mozzarella, vodka sauce, eggplant rollatini and Balthazar's baked breads; my kids are regulars for their paninis on the $5 student lunch specials.
A year after opening, Bartoni's redid the back dining room, then the private patio, opening Bartoni's Italian Table to serve upscale dinners featuring hearty regional italian specialties, amazing cheese and fruit pairings, and nightly fish specials which have never disappointed.
Baristaville can never tire of too many food choices, and now, Joe Bartoni's has branched out for brunch. Bring your bottle of bubbly to mix the mimosas while deciding what to order off Chef Ciro's european-style menu. ]]>
You'll find the best of breakfast basics, plus familiar dishes tweaked to a higher gourmet factor. What we loved: Ciro's nut-crunchy fresh homemade granola, a big bowl of fresh berries napped with fresh mint and fig syrup, rich, eggy french toast made of thick slices of panettone, and a roasted eggplant-basil-goat cheese omelette served with buttery-crisp herb potatoes. We weren't really hungry, but out of sheer gourmandise, we delighted in a platter of glazed and raspberry filled donuts - homemade and cooked to order. Perfect with a final cup of Italian roast - I don't know many places that can top off brunch so well.
There are plenty of reasons - both sweet and savory - to revisit Bartoni's brunch:
smoked salmon pizetta, platters of homemade scones with clotted cream and swiss jams, decadent crepes stuffed with nutella, caramelized banana, and creme anglaise; the eggs baked in a clay pot looked heavenly - on a bed of ratatouille, potatoes, and fontina cheese. Prices are a la carte, with entrees ranging from $5.95 to $11.95.
Bartoni's is family-friendly, and a nice treat whenever you decide to break bread with them. Bartoni's Italian Market is open daily; Brunch is served every Sunday (for now); dinners Tuesday - Sunday. 151 Valley Road, Montclair. 973-746-6700. Free parking in the rear lot.]]>
Baristaville Al Fresco Dining Maptag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.92532008-07-11T19:00:53Z2008-07-11T17:36:06Z To navigate this map, first click here, then press the + button to enlarge, and search away! Blue flags indicate sidewalk seating; Green flags indicate a private terrace or patio, but in some cases the restaurant may also have...Annette Batsonhttp://www.baristanet.com
To navigate this map, first click here, then press the + button to enlarge, and search away! Blue flags indicate sidewalk seating; Green flags indicate a private terrace or patio, but in some cases the restaurant may also have tables street-front. Bon appetit! ]]>
The Pie Storetag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.92112008-07-03T20:30:33Z2008-07-03T20:35:00ZSweet and savory pies and pastry in the British tradition at this bakery from the owners of London Food Company. 100 Watchung Ave. Montclair...Liz Georgehttp://www.baristanet.com
Sweet and savory pies and pastry in the British tradition at this bakery from the owners of London Food Company.
100 Watchung Ave.
Montclair
Finding The Sweet Spottag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.91582008-07-02T17:38:24Z2008-07-03T14:27:01Z Let's admit a well-known Baristaville truism: Gina's Paneficio - Montclair's artisanal bakery of sweet treats and European style breads - is a winner. The Walters' family-owned business has been satisfying our carb cravings for 11 years with handcrafted, minimally...Annette Batsonhttp://www.baristanet.com
Let's admit a well-known Baristaville truism: Gina's Paneficio - Montclair's artisanal bakery of sweet treats and European style breads - is a winner. The Walters' family-owned business has been satisfying our carb cravings for 11 years with handcrafted, minimally processed baked goods. Not astonishing, then, that during the holidays loyal customers line up around the block to take home fresh fruit pies, tortes, impossibly rich Buche de Noel, and the famous double-corn & jalapeno mini muffins. So why am I writing about Gina's? Because there's something new, improved, and grown up at their Walnut Street boutique.
They just completed a welcoming makeover - you'll find walls painted bright, the display case turned around - making room for bistro tables and chairs. There's a wall of blackboard and chalk at the ready to amuse kids while nibbling cupcakes and cookies.
]]>
A new cafe menu means you can (finally!) order your favorite pies, cakes and tortes by the slice. And if you aren't familiar with Gina's comfort-food - treat yourself to a buttery almond crusted brioche or banana chocolate chunk bread pudding with a coffee, tea, or fresh fruit smoothie. Savory additions to the menu include a variety of paninis on toasted french brioche ($3.00) and pizettas ($6.00) which set a new standard for focaccia. With seven varieties of pizettas (big enough to share) you can't miss. The caramelized shallot with goat cheese was a huge kid pleaser; we ordered our greens, enjoying spinach, cheese, and potato topping a crisp, airy underpinning of focaccia.
Gina's has new evening hours. Thursday, Friday and Saturday they'll serve drinks and dessert until 11 pm, inside, or at the sidewalk tables, sprinkle-proof under a protective awning.
Finally, Gina's has changed her name. Forget Paneficio, it's now Gina's Bakery. Simple, and simply delicious. Gina's Bakery, 110 Walnut Street, Montclair. 973-233-1010. Closed Monday.]]>
Summer-Time, And The Eating Is Easy...tag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.91572008-06-27T17:33:46Z2008-07-01T14:58:31Z Our recent outdoor seating census of Upper Montclair (aka UPMO...) turned up some new, old, and forgotten places. The designation "UPMO's Most Romantic" would have to go to the secluded back patio of Alan@five94. Walk through the ivy-covered archway...Annette Batsonhttp://www.baristanet.com
Our recent outdoor seating census of Upper Montclair (aka UPMO...) turned up some new, old, and forgotten places. The designation "UPMO's Most Romantic" would have to go to the secluded back patio of Alan@five94. Walk through the ivy-covered archway of "The Mews" down a narrow lane to the lovely brick patio. The lush garden, red tablecloths, and Italian menu definitely lend a Trastevere feel to the place. Serving light lunch and dinner, it's a peaceful hideaway to savor quiet conversation -- and indulge in one of their seductive desserts. We liked the chocolate raspberry hazelnut cake with raspberry ganache...Alan's also has a pair of tiled tables out front, at 594 Valley Road... Just next door Tuscany meets Pebble Beach at UPTOWN's new annex, a nicely transformed alleyway opening onto Valley Road, with that gorgeous view of St. Jame's. Golden pebbles covering the ground, market umbrellas, and little tables make a cozy spot to sip an iced coffee or grab a bite...]]>
The best part about the bento-box sized dining porch of Dai-Kichi is it's completely weather-proof - and just a short roll from the train station. The sushi deck is tucked away facing the parking lot - look for the japanese lanterns and petunia boxes...Flat Bread Grill's new patio looks promising...if they get some tables and chairs! Expect to see late night seating for 30+ coming here in August...
Setting your sights on sidewalk scenery?
Enjoy the urban outdoors at Starbucks, Sandwich Theory, Uptown, Dunkin' Donuts, DaVinci Pizza, Beyond The Bagel; grab a smoothie and baklava at Jackie's Grillette. Do you and the kids need a dose of guac? Plop yourselves down at Tinga's for south of the border snacks, a $5 lunch special, and a penny-pinching $2 kids menu - Monday and Tuesday nights. ]]>
Drink Your Vegetablestag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.91052008-06-17T16:47:47Z2008-06-17T17:09:52ZA collard and spinach smoothie? That's one option at The Energy Bar, a vegetarian oasis in the South End of Montclair. I had tried a fruit smoothie there about a year ago, but it pretty much exited my consciousness until...Debbie Galant
The Energy Bar, a vegetarian oasis in the South End of Montclair. I had tried a fruit smoothie there about a year ago, but it pretty much exited my consciousness until the Baristas got an admonishing email from a reader a few weeks ago.
I came here to put my two cents in about a vegetarian cafe and juice bar called The Energy Bar in the South End of Montclair. It is a truly fabulous restaurant. I was stunned to find that it isn't listed on Baristanet. They are just a cafe bar with a few outside seats but are expanding to have in house dining. The food is delicious and fresh and it isn't served anywhere else in montclair that I have found. Please add it to the list.
Point taken. During my visit to The Energy Bar last week, I tried the Green Energy (shown), a blended concoction made of apple, celery, collards, cucumber and spinach. (Small $4, Large $6) The apple adds a tiny bit of sweetness, and while I can't say it's the best thing I've ever tasted on God's green earth, it is 100-percent guilt free.]]>
The veggie patties, on the other hand, at $2, are simply heavenly. I tried the "fish" flavor -- everything in the restaurant is vegetarian, even if it's called "beef" or "chick'n" -- an absolute delight.
Though a fast-food alternative, The Energy Bar was not exactly fast the day I went. But the customers sitting on the counter stools, all regulars, didn't seem to mind. It took about 20 minutes before I was served, so I had to take my Green Energy to go.
Also on the menu: a Ginger Chick'n Wrap, Tunut Sandwich with Flax Chips, BBQ Chick'n Sandwich, fruit smoothies, plaintain , yucca fries and a variety of salads.
Decor is strictly functional, but there's a table outside -- just perfect for a day like today.
]]>
Tony's Hot Hot Hotdogstag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.91032008-06-17T16:18:41Z2008-06-17T16:20:30ZJust Sabrett, ma'am. 1079 Broad Street Bloomfield, NJ 973.338.0333...Debbie Galant
Just Sabrett, ma'am.
1079 Broad Street
Bloomfield, NJ
973.338.0333
Energy Bartag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.91022008-06-17T16:05:36Z2008-06-17T16:07:47ZVegetarian fare and smoothies served in a no-frills, counter-style restaurant. 307 C Orange Rd. Montclair, NJ 07042 973.746.7003...Debbie Galant
Vegetarian fare and smoothies served in a no-frills, counter-style restaurant.
307 C Orange Rd.
Montclair, NJ 07042
973.746.7003
Sometimes, You Just Want a Steaktag:www.baristanet.com,2008:/food//6.89872008-06-03T16:26:58Z2008-06-03T16:53:58ZCall me unAmerican, but most of the time I go out to dinner, I go for Thai food or Japanese. Although I love a hamburger, I rarely crave a steak, or have any interest in spending dinner-menu prices for something...Debbie Galant
Call me unAmerican, but most of the time I go out to dinner, I go for Thai food or Japanese. Although I love a hamburger, I rarely crave a steak, or have any interest in spending dinner-menu prices for something just as easily cooked on my patio grill.
But sometimes a steak is exactly what you want, and despite all the bad press red meat had gotten, it at least has the merit of being high-protein and low-carb. That's how I wound up at the Bloomfield Steak & Seafood House over Memorial Day Weekend.]]>
We followed with two desserts, a Key Lime pie that was just so-so and a to-die-for Steakhouse Brownie, which consisted of an oven-heated brownie, drizzled in fudge sauce and topped with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. If you've got something really worthy to celebrate, order it for yourself. For less guilt, ask for several forks and split it with your companions. After all, you didn't come for the carbs.
Bloomfield Steak & Seafood. 409 Franklin St., Bloomfield. 973.680.4500.]]>
On Tuesday nights, your dining experience is augmented by the keyboard and guitar duo of Mark Walsh and James O'Malley. It's worth it just to see O'Malley's improbable guitar.
And then there's the bathroom. A light goes on when you walk in, and you read a sign explaining that the lights are motion-activated. It warns you that if the lights go off while you're in there, all you have to do is wave your hands. Well they did, and I did. But sitting in the pitch black there for a moment before the lights went back on was just another reminder that I'd finally found a restaurant in Baristaville where the surprises never end.
Or as they say, from the sublime to the ridiculous.
Farm2Bistro, 177 Franklin Ave., Nutley, NJ 973.667.3276.]]>
You'll find the best of breakfast basics, plus familiar dishes tweaked to a higher gourmet factor. What we loved: Ciro's nut-crunchy fresh homemade granola, a big bowl of fresh berries napped with fresh mint and fig syrup, rich, eggy french toast made of thick slices of panettone, and a roasted eggplant-basil-goat cheese omelette served with buttery-crisp herb potatoes. We weren't really hungry, but out of sheer gourmandise, we delighted in a platter of glazed and raspberry filled donuts - homemade and cooked to order. Perfect with a final cup of Italian roast - I don't know many places that can top off brunch so well.
There are plenty of reasons - both sweet and savory - to revisit Bartoni's brunch:
smoked salmon pizetta, platters of homemade scones with clotted cream and swiss jams, decadent crepes stuffed with nutella, caramelized banana, and creme anglaise; the eggs baked in a clay pot looked heavenly - on a bed of ratatouille, potatoes, and fontina cheese. Prices are a la carte, with entrees ranging from $5.95 to $11.95.
Bartoni's is family-friendly, and a nice treat whenever you decide to break bread with them. Bartoni's Italian Market is open daily; Brunch is served every Sunday (for now); dinners Tuesday - Sunday. 151 Valley Road, Montclair. 973-746-6700. Free parking in the rear lot.]]>
To navigate this map, first click here, then press the + button to enlarge, and search away! Blue flags indicate sidewalk seating; Green flags indicate a private terrace or patio, but in some cases the restaurant may also have tables street-front. Bon appetit! ]]>
Gina's has new evening hours. Thursday, Friday and Saturday they'll serve drinks and dessert until 11 pm, inside, or at the sidewalk tables, sprinkle-proof under a protective awning.
Finally, Gina's has changed her name. Forget Paneficio, it's now Gina's Bakery. Simple, and simply delicious. Gina's Bakery, 110 Walnut Street, Montclair. 973-233-1010. Closed Monday.]]>
Our recent outdoor seating census of Upper Montclair (aka UPMO...) turned up some new, old, and forgotten places. The designation "UPMO's Most Romantic" would have to go to the secluded back patio of Alan@five94. Walk through the ivy-covered archway of "The Mews" down a narrow lane to the lovely brick patio. The lush garden, red tablecloths, and Italian menu definitely lend a Trastevere feel to the place. Serving light lunch and dinner, it's a peaceful hideaway to savor quiet conversation -- and indulge in one of their seductive desserts. We liked the chocolate raspberry hazelnut cake with raspberry ganache...Alan's also has a pair of tiled tables out front, at 594 Valley Road... Just next door Tuscany meets Pebble Beach at UPTOWN's new annex, a nicely transformed alleyway opening onto Valley Road, with that gorgeous view of St. Jame's. Golden pebbles covering the ground, market umbrellas, and little tables make a cozy spot to sip an iced coffee or grab a bite...]]>
The best part about the bento-box sized dining porch of Dai-Kichi is it's completely weather-proof - and just a short roll from the train station. The sushi deck is tucked away facing the parking lot - look for the japanese lanterns and petunia boxes...Flat Bread Grill's new patio looks promising...if they get some tables and chairs! Expect to see late night seating for 30+ coming here in August...
Setting your sights on sidewalk scenery?
Enjoy the urban outdoors at Starbucks, Sandwich Theory, Uptown, Dunkin' Donuts, DaVinci Pizza, Beyond The Bagel; grab a smoothie and baklava at Jackie's Grillette. Do you and the kids need a dose of guac? Plop yourselves down at Tinga's for south of the border snacks, a $5 lunch special, and a penny-pinching $2 kids menu - Monday and Tuesday nights. 
]]>