Montclair and its neighboring towns boast diverse varieties of bars that you may not even have known existed. Whether you’re in the mood for a glass of vino, a craft cocktail, or a pint in a pub full of friendly locals, read on for a list of bars to visit based on your mood, vibe, or simply drink of choice.
Wine Bars
Amanti Vino | 30 Church Street, Montclair
(Photo credit: @amantivino)
While this spot is more of a stop-and-shop for all wine needs, Amanti Vino offers interactive experiences to bring out the sommelier in you. The calendar is always updated with upcoming events, from wine dinners to tastings. Purchases can either be picked up or delivered right to your door.
Spuntino Wine Bar + Italian Tapas | 70 Kingsland Road, Clifton
(Photo credit: @spuntinowinebar)
Spuntino Wine Bar is unlike any other in the area. While it advertises the stellar selection of wines (which does live up to the hype), Spuntino offers an exquisite Italian menu to pair with those wines. In addition to its core menu, the Happy Hour and Brunch menus offer more opportunities to pair different flavor combinations.
Read More: A Guide to the Best BYOB Restaurants in Montclair
Cocktail Bars
Alto | 690 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
(Photo credit: @themchotel)
Come for the cocktails, stay for the views. Located on the top of the MC Hotel, guests will feel as though they’re in the city with sweeping views from this rooftop bar. Trust us, this bar is one-of-a-kind in Montclair. Alto offers beer, wine, cocktails, and light bites and reservations are currently encouraged to guarantee a table.
See More: A Guide to Montclair’s Best Coffee Shops
Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen | 398 Bloomfield Avenue
This American eatery serves up some awesome cocktails. Currently on the menu are ‘My Name is Mud,’ a cognac, rum, + pineapple drink; ‘Moonage Daydream,’ with gin, pomegranate, lime, rosemary, jalapeño, + pineapple; ‘Desperate & Divine,’ with mezcal, elderflower, ginger, lime; and many more. This is a lovely, intimate spot with old timey vibes — so you can kick back with your cocktail and have a chill evening.
Pub/Gastropub
De Novo European Pub | 275 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair
(Photo credit: @denovomontclair)
This gastropub located in Upper Montclair truly has it all. From specialty cocktails to an extensive beer and wine list, it’s a perfect spot for a night out with friends or a cozy date night. PS: There is a new De Novo location opened up in Edgewater for all of our Hudson County readers to take advantage of.
Egan & Sons | 118 Walnut Street, Montclair
When you think Irish gastropub in the Montclair area, Egan is one of the first things to come to mind. This classic spot has 28 draught beers, wines, and crafted cocktails for whatever drink mood you’re feeling. There’s also awesome Irish cuisine here to go along with your drink.
Just Jake’s | 30 Park Street, Montclair
(Photo credit: @justjakes_montclair)
This bar has been around for years but the welcoming atmosphere has always remained the same. Live music is back and there’s a performance on the calendar every weekend. There’s something for everyone, including cocktails, draft beers, and wines.
Montclair Brewery | 101 Walnut Street, Montclair
This local brewery is a must visit. If beer is your thing, this is the place to go. It’s a BYOF establishment (bring your own food), so you can bring along your favorite nosh to have alongside these delicious brews. There’s a nutty dread peanut butter stout, a jubilee red ale brewed with hibiscus, and a huava guava IPA on tap, among lots of other options. Plus, the brewery is constantly changing up its brews so things never get boring. It also has a ton of craft beer to try as well.
Oak Barrel Pub | 440 Main Street, West Orange
(Photo credit: @oakbarrelpubwonj)
This pub lies in the heart of Montclair’s neighboring town, West Orange. Locals and outsiders alike flock to this spot for a pint and you’re likely to find it busiest on Saint Patrick’s Day amidst the activity of the West Orange Saint Patrick’s Day parade. Check the calendar for special events like trivia night and karaoke.
Tierney’s Tavern | 136-138 Valley Road, Montclair
Another bar that is a Montclair staple is Tierney’s, the go-to Irish dive bar in town. Everything we know and love about a classic pub can be found at this local watering hole, including a jukebox, live music, darts, and your favorite brews.
