Lauren Rivera 
There’s no shortage of great foodie options in the Montclair area, whether it’s specialty drinks or a fun fusion dish. As a team of foodies here at The Montclair Girl, we have compiled a list of five local items that are worth checking out, from a bruschetta trio to a salad dressing-inspired cocktail. Read on for a list of foodie + drink recommendations in the Montclair area from the MG team.
Egg Chicken N Waffle from Chashni Cafe | 349 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
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Chashni Cafe is a newer Montclair brunch spot. At this cafe, patrons will find Pakistani flavors and American comfort food served in a cozy space decked out in soft blush-pink decor. On the menu is MG‘s recommendation: the “Egg Chicken N Waffle,” which is made with spicy maple chicken tenders, a fried egg, and butter on a Belgian waffle.
Read More: Meet NJ’s Unofficial Official Drink, The Jack Rose (+ Where to Find One)
Salad Days Cocktail from Bacarosa | 238 Franklin Avenue, Nutley
Photo Credit: Bacarosa
Bacarosa, located in the former Hudson Rose, is a modern Italian restaurant. Along with Italian + American favorites like pizza, pasta, and more, the menu features a variety of specialty cocktails. On MG‘s list of must-try drinks is Bacarosa’s Salad Days, which is made with Bombay Sapphire gin, Covesella tomato water gin, sherry, dry vermouth, tomato water, lemon, extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt.
Smoked Salmon Croissant from Somedays Bakery | 260 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair
Photo Credit: Mike Chau
Owned and operated by the same team behind Chip City, Somedays Bakery is a cafe specializing in artisanal croissants. And here in the Montclair area, we love our savory pastries just as much as the sweet ones. The menu at Somedays Bakery includes the Smoked Salmon Croissant, which includes a buttery croissant stuffed with smoked salmon, pickled onions, and fresh dill.
Tuna Salad Sandwich from Nikki + Al’s Noshery | 179 Glenridge Avenue, Montclair
Nikki + Al’s Noshery is a Jewish deli in Montclair. On our recent visit, the MG team ordered the Tuna Salad Sandwich, which comes with flaked albacore tuna, mayonnaise, celery, lemon zest, fresh herbs, romaine lettuce, and tomatoes. Though the sandwich typically comes on rye bread, we swapped it out for an everything bagel.
Bonus
Apple Cider Doughnut from Demarest Farm | 244 Werimus Road, Hillsdale
Although outside the scope of Essex County, the MG team had to include this fall staple. At Demarest Farm, visitors can find more than just apple and pumpkin picking. This spot sells apple cider doughnuts that are a must-try during the autumn season. MG recommends pairing it with the housemade apple cider.
See More: 8 Hoboken + Jersey City Foodie Items We’re Loving: June 2025
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