Ava Agostinelli 
We all know that first dates can be awkward. On top of that, it can be a challenge just to think of where to go. To make it easier, we’ve compiled a guide of first date spots for every occasion, mood, and personality. Keep reading for a roundup of the best first date spots in Montclair and Essex County.
Cafe Giotto | 42 Church Street
Cafe Giotto, from the same team behind The Corner, serves authentic Italian dishes such as homemade pasta, eggplant parmesan, and daily seasonal specials. With less than 10 tables, the space fosters a cozy and intimate environment with its dimly lit interior and brick facade. Cafe Giotto is open Wednesday through Sunday. Check out the menu here.
Read More: Romantic Restaurants for Date Night in the Montclair Area
Faubourg | 544 Bloomfield Avenue
This French brasserie boasts an upscale and fashionable environment, consisting of its main dining room, covered patio, and an upstairs cocktail lounge. Faubourg serves classic and contemporary French dishes, including chickpea panisse, homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and buttery madeleines. There is also an option of an entirely plant-based menu. Check out the menus here.
De Novo European Pub | 275 Bellevue Avenue
De Novo, located in a former train station, is a small yet lively environment for a first date. High tables, a full-service bar, and a dual menu of traditional European dishes and sushi make this restaurant a fun yet sophisticated option. We like the inventive cocktail menu, which even has some fun non-alcoholic drinks along for the ride. Check out the menu here.
Hot Bagels Abroad + Van Vleck Gardens | 150 Valley Road + 21 Van Vleck Street
For a more casual morning, grab a classic Jersey breakfast at Hot Bagels Abroad and take it to-go just a block up the street to Van Vleck Gardens. Picnic on the luscious open green spaces, or take a stroll around the historic flower beds, large trees, and the mansion. Van Vleck Gardens is open to the public daily from dawn to dusk.
Quarry Point Lookout at Mill’s Reservation | Montclair
For those who grew up in Montclair, Quarry Point Lookout has always been regarded as a staple point of interest. The 2.1-mile hike around Mill’s Reservation culminates at Quarry Point Lookout, a breathtaking vista of Montclair and New York City. Both the long stroll and the journey’s end serve as the perfect opportunity for deep conversation. Furry friends (on a leash) are also welcome. Mill’s Reservation is open from dawn to dusk every day.
Anderson Park | 274 Bellevue Avenue
Take a stroll or have a picnic in one of Montclair’s many parks, such as Anderson Park. Situated in a central location, take your Java Love, Vesta, Somedays, or Mattarello goods to the park for a picnic in the grass or on a bench on the perimeter. The circular walk provides the perfect opportunity for getting to know one another; if things get boring, stop into one of the many stores Upper Montclair has to offer, such as Howell, Kaight, or Williams Sonoma.
Clary Anderson Ice Skating Rink | 41 Chestnut Street
Clary Anderson Ice Skating Arena sets the scene for a more active yet fun activity for a first date. The arena is currently closed for the summer, but check out the township of Montclair website for updates on Public Skate schedules. Help each other keep two feet on the ice while listening to music in Montclair’s iconic ice skating rink, loved even by Ariana Grande.
Montclair Indoor Golf Club | 369 Bloomfield Avenue
If it’s a rainy day but you still want an active first date, head to Montclair Indoor Golf Club. Get to know each other as you make your way through the 18-hole course. Tee times can be reserved on the calendar on their website, starting at $75 a session.
Montclair Brewery | 101 Walnut Street
For a more social environment, head to Montclair Brewery. This is a fun pick for the delicious beer, live music, and weekly events. From local bands, food trucks, to karaoke, Montclair Brewery sets a lively, fun, and easygoing scene for a first date.
The Wellmont Theater | 5 Seymour Street
For dinner and a show, the Wellmont Theater is the go-to venue in Montclair. Established in 1922, the Wellmont hosts renowned performing artists ranging from musicians to comedians, such as Vampire Weekend, Wallows, and Pete Correale. Grab a cocktail at Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen before the show. Upcoming shows are listed on the Wellmont Theater’s website.
The Claridge Theater | 486 Bloomfield Avenue
Catch an indie or blockbuster movie at Montclair’s historic movie theater, established in 1922. Centrally located, there are plenty of casual bars and restaurants nearby, such as Raymond’s and Just Jake’s, to dine or drink at before or after. The Claridge also hosts numerous events through Montclair Film, such as Summer Series Under The Stars, which shows five free outdoor movies during the summer.
Montclair Art Museum | 3 South Mountain Avenue
Established in 1914, Montclair Art Museum showcases American and Native American Art, including the largest collection of George Inness’s work, a notable and historic Montclair resident. The gallery is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and tickets for adults are $8.
Doin’ Dishes | 50 Church Street
Doin’ Dishes provides a hands-on, creative, and social experience for everyone. On Tuesday nights from 6PM-9PM, Doin Dishes hosts an adults-only night, including wine, cheese, and good music, for a flat studio fee of just $10 (cost of ceramic piece is additional). Chat, paint, and take home a masterpiece.
Honorable Mentions
Holsten’s Ice Cream Parlor | 1063 Broad Street, Bloomfield
Grab an ice cream sundae at New Jersey’s most iconic, old-fashioned ice cream parlor. If conversation lulls, The Sopranos is your go-to topic as you take in the scene of the last episode of the acclaimed series. Sit in the red booths or counter stools and enjoy the homemade ice cream and world-famous onion rings. Holsten’s is open daily until 10PM.
See More: The Best First Date Spots in Hoboken, New Jersey
Turtle Back Zoo | 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange
An Essex County landmark, the Turtle Back Zoo showcases over 130 animals, situated in the South Mountain Reservation. Stroll through the Butterfly Tent or feed the giraffes together. Tickets are $22 for adults, open rain or shine. If you’re hungry after, McLoone’s Boathouse is located right next door.
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