For many, having a baby can be one of the most exciting parts of life — though it can also be a little overwhelming. From diaper genies to strollers, breast pumps, mobiles, and more, parents-to-be have lots of items they need to help prepare for the baby. Luckily, baby showers are a wonderful way to both celebrate the arrival of a new baby while also providing the parents with all these necessities. Whether you are looking to host a low-key gathering with a few close family members or want to include a fun activity with a larger crowd, plenty of restaurants, bars, and venues are available locally in North Jersey. We’ve done the research so you can focus on creating the baby shower registry + compiling the guest list. Read on to learn about the best places to have a baby shower in Essex County + the greater North Jersey area.
The Barrow House | 1296 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton
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This rustic American restaurant is on the site of a former barn, providing rustic vibes that are great for the farmhouse-chic parents-to-be. You can select from seven unique rooms — from the Victorian-inspired Study Parlor to the traditionally-built, post-and-beam Barn. Different rooms can accommodate groups of different sizes — from 18 guests up to 45. Plus, you can bring your own decorations so long as they adhere to The Barrow House’s guidelines. To learn more about menus and pricing, click here.
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The Vine Room at Caldwell Flowerland + Events | 329 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell
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While this may look like a flower shop (and it is), it also serves as an event space. That means you can be surrounded by flowers, even in the winter, in a cozy, brick-filled + intimate room. A team of designers can customize any type of flower, vase, or ceramic to complement your baby shower. You can even add a floral workshop or class to your celebration so your guests can leave with a new skill + an arrangement to decorate their space. You can learn more by filling out a consultation form to see if this venue will be a good fit for your shower.
Common Lot | 27 Main Street, Millburn
This restaurant is known for its seasonal New American dishes with international influences and its homemade sodas. When it comes to hosting an event, the Chef’s Library is a great choice for a baby shower. It’s a secluded dining area with a selection of the chef’s extensive collection of cookbooks. This is a good fit for a medium-sized gathering — though the room is accessible only by stairs, so it may not be a fit for those expecting older relatives. You can learn more here.
18 Label Studios | 18 Label Street, Montclair
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For those seeking more of a formal venue rather than an intimate restaurant, this space brings the feel of a Manhattan studio to the suburbs. It calls itself a “full-service creative production studio” and makes for a unique, more modern shower environment. There are several indoor and outdoor spaces that can be customized to suit any size party or shower theme. It also offers on-site catering and a prep kitchen. You can learn more here.
Sidecar at Fitzgerald’s 1928 | 13 Herman Street, Glen Ridge
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Located next door to this popular restaurant is Sidecar, its dedicated event space. It is a gorgeous loft setting with exposed brick, high ceilings, and a working fireplace — in other words, a peak cozy + intimate environment that’s especially wonderful in the winter months. The in-house catering is provided by Fitzgerald’s 1928, which serves up upscale tavern food like sandwiches, salads, pizza, and more. You can learn more and book your event here.
The Fox + Falcon by David Burke | 19 Valley Street, South Orange
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This contemporary American restaurant aims to make its guests feel at home. The multi-level space offers several rooms, each with its unique look and atmosphere. Options include Snug, a traditional Irish pub, and a dining room on the main level. For those looking for a more casual experience, like bringing a small group to participate in a fun activity, this is the spot to visit. With both a lively trivia night and karaoke events, this is a great choice for those looking for something a little more upbeat, competitive, and less traditional. You can inquire about private events here.
Mamma Vittoria Catering | 160 Franklin Avenue, Nutley
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Mamma Vittoria specializes in events of all kinds — from weddings to birthdays, sweet 16s, and, of course, baby showers. The team understands that sometimes you want a special venue without a giant crowd, so it can also cater to groups as small as 25 people in the special banquet room. Plus, you can even hook up your phone and play your own music throughout the event. Plus, certain rooms have a dance floor for those looking for more of an on-your-feet, party type of vibe.
Mulberry House | 415 Westfield Avenue, Westfield
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This quaint tea house is located in a renovated Victorian home and is truly worth the visit. Your guests will be seated in a brightly-decorated room, enjoying tea, mini sandwiches, and various delicious treats. Your shower can be customized to reflect the guest of honor’s tastes, theme preferences, and special requests. This is a great choice for a more intimate gathering, as the space isn’t huge and the business is currently limiting parties to follow Covid guidelines. To learn more about pricing and further details to plan your event, click here.
See More: Where to Throw a Baby Shower in Hoboken + Jersey City
Venue 104 | 104 N Union Avenue, Cranford
This Cranford event venue is the ideal size for a medium-sized party. It’s spacious while still feeling cozy and intimate — plus, it has AV capabilities for any games or fun presentations. Chef Franco Vitella caters the events, and the team will help with any decorations to make sure the space fits your needs. There’s a bar and buffet area as well to keep everything running smoothly in the space. Plus, since it’s completely private, you can truly host whatever kind of party you like — whether that be one filled with music, games, gift opening, or something else.
