Small businesses are crucial to economic growth in the United States. Not to mention, they are living dreams for the business owners running them. Light has been shed across the nation on our need for small business success and more specifically the need for Black-owned small business growth and operation. Montclair + Bloomfield are homes to so many amazing Black-owned small businesses covering industries from food to self-care — that, of course, we had to share. Read on for a list of these Black-owned businesses in Montclair and Bloomfield to support today and every day.
Disclaimer: Know of a business to add to this list? It’s growing — so please email hello@themontclairgirl.com to add.
Montclair
Ahava Felicidad Hair + Body | 4 Midland Avenue
Moving from chemical-processed hair to a natural look is an intense and sometimes exhausting journey. Ahava Felicidad Hair and Body is here to help with that transition. The team knows the correct protective styles, trim schedules, products, and more to help with this process. Come in for a visit or check out the product offerings for more insight.
Beyond The Boogie Dance Company | 604 Valley Road
Beyond the Boogie Dance Company offers a myriad of classes for students that range from six months old to adults. Classes include ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, acrobatics, and step.
Read More: A List of Women-Owned Businesses to Support in Montclair
Blue Counseling + Wellness Center | 1 Upper Mountain Avenue
Blue Counseling + Wellness Center is a center for nutrition counseling and relationship, mental health, and sex therapy services.
Brick City Vegan | 362 Bloomfield Avenue
Newark-based fast-casual restaurant Brick City Vegan recently opened at 362 Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair. Essex County entrepreneur Adenah Bayoh (also behind Cornbread Farm-to-Table, which is right nextdoor) is behind this creative concept, which features modern takes on classic Southern dishes in addition to standbys like grain bowls and salads. Even non-vegans will find themselves drooling over these burgers — they are every bit as juicy and delicious as the real deal.
Café Moso | 307 Orange Road
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When hearing the word “café,” thoughts of small pastries and coffee usually come to mind. Café Moso is way more than that. Open for three meals a day with intricate dishes such as Shishido tempura, lamb burgers, shaved catfish fry, and dry-rubbed ribs, there are so many things to do. During the winter months, this eatery is open Tuesday through Saturday with both indoor and heated outdoor seating.
Caribbean Touch | 318 Orange Road
A trip to the actual Caribbean may be put on hold for now, but the taste of the islands is not far away. Caribbean Touch is a classic in the area and a go-to spot for the best in cuisine from our tropical neighbors. Options for outdoor dining are available, however, most customers choose to enjoy the meals via takeout service.
Cornbread | 362 Bloomfield Avenue
Cornbread is co-owned by local entrepreneurs Adenah Bayou and Zadie B. Smith. There are three other Cornbread locations throughout New Jersey and New York, and the menu features dishes like the signature homemade cornbread, fried chicken, fried fish, wings, ribs, baked chicken, mac-and-cheese, and potato salad, among other dishes.
Crockett’s Fish Fry | 162 Bloomfield Avenue
There truly is nothing like fried food. Add it with classic soul-food favorites on the side and there are bound to be happy eaters. Crockett’s Fish Fry takes all the best seafood from tilapia to whitings — and fries them up to perfection. While the menu may be simple, the taste is anything but.
deVine Plantery | 28 South Fullerton Avenue
From what started off as an online store to a brick-and-mortar in Montclair, deVine Plantery blossomed with success (sorry, couldn’t resist). deVine Plantery provides beautiful and unique houseplants, as well as, plant accessories like plant misters, ceramic pots, fertilizer, and more. A few of the best-sellers are pothos, snake plants, and philodendrons.
Dr. Barnes + Carter | 321 Orange Road
Dr. Barnes and Carter handle all things eyes. The testimonials on the website speak for themselves and really showcase the mission behind the work. Both Barnes and Carter strive to offer the best in eye care and the most extensive list of services.
Image Dermatology | 51 Park Street
Dr. Jeanine Downie is not only a businesswoman with her own practice, but she is also nationally recognized by numerous media outlets. She holds a dermatology license in New York, New Jersey, and California, as well as degrees from Tufts University, American University, and SUNY Health Science Center in Brooklyn. She is also heavily involved with leading organizations such as The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, The American Academy of Dermatology, The Women’s Dermatologic Society, and The Skin Cancer Foundation. Needless to say, she is the woman for all skincare needs.
Jade Alycia Inc. + Jade Alycia Beauty | Online
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Founded by Jade Webber, Jade Alycia Inc. is an accessories brand introducing a custom fusion of couture techniques and Parisian street style for those who live sustainably. It carries one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry, handbags, headwear, and more. Jade also founded Jade Alycia Beauty, a beauty brand that serves sensitive skin types using all-natural vegan-friendly skincare products for men and women.
Jefferson’s Cafe | 88 Maple Avenue
Jefferson’s Cafe is family-owned and serves up Southern cuisine with a twist. The restaurant also has a second location in Orange and describes its food as “made with love, culture, + history.” The menu includes dishes like Mr. J’s Famous Fried Chicken, salmon cakes, and fried catfish.
Johanna Howard Home | 15 Gardiner Place
The origin of this home and design brand hails all the way from Sweden. As a young girl, Johanna Howard found her love for handwork and crafting by watching her mother create Scandinavian clothing designs. After schooling in the States, she took her love of design over to the home industry. Her store now houses handcrafted pillows, throws, candles, and more.
Johari | 76 Church Street
Fittings for bras, lingerie, and swimsuits can be a unique experience, to say the least. Johair has been working for over 20 years to make this shopping trip one that is empowering and exciting for women. For anyone looking for top-quality undergarments or a boost of confidence in clothes, check out this local establishment.
Kika Stretch Studios | 255 Bellevue Avenue
Having a body free of stress and pain sounds like the most perfect thing. Kika Stretch Studios is here for just that. Stretching sessions can improve flexibility and posture, enhance energy and mental clarity, and provide for a better feeling body overall. Memberships are available as well as flexible pricing options.
Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant | 515 Bloomfield Avenue
It can sometimes be difficult to find a restaurant that offers authentic cuisine, that is delicious and will please both vegans and non-vegans alike. That is until you’ve tried Mesob. With only the finest quality in meats, seafood, vegetables, and more, this eatery serves up Ethiopian favorites. Dishes from this country are known for their flavors and spices, an element Mesob takes seriously and is included in every menu item.
Mint Family Daycare | 46 South Park Street
Rolda Mitchell has been the owner + director of Mint Daycare since 1997 and has been caring for children for over 22 years. The daycare is located next to Canterbury Park.
Montclair Brewery | 101 Walnut Street
Leo and Denise are not just husband and wife, they are co-owners of Montclair Brewery, a business that started as an at-home passion project. For over 13 years, Leo was brewing batches of beer in his home for gifts. The duo formally established their business in 2014 and then moved this endeavor out of their home and into the microbrewery and tasting room space in 2018. Visit the brewery in person, opt for curbside pick-up, or grab some friends for a virtual tasting event.
Montclair Diner | 613 Valley Road
New Jersey and diners are already a match made in heaven. Enter owner Eliot Mosby and Chef Gus Moya, a duo even better than the one formerly mentioned. These two are known on the local food scene and bring expertise from their previous work with other diners in the area. The Montclair Diner was taken over by Mosby in 2019 and has been thriving ever since. Old favorites stayed on the menu while new creations have found their way into the hearts of old and new customers alike. This diner shot to fame when Mosby took his “Whoopi Waffle” creation on ‘The View’ to celebrate Whoopi Goldberg’s birthday.
Montclair Flowers + Gifts | 324 Orange Road
Flowers are a token of love for any occasion from birthdays to sympathy. Show your love to friends, family, co-workers, significant others, and more with a beautiful bouquet from Montclair Flowers and Gifts. In addition to putting a smile on your loved one’s face, Montclair Flowers and Gifts is committed to helping local florists and making a difference in the business.
Montclair Pediatric Dental | 31 Valley Road
Oral health for children is extremely important as it is often linked to other health issues if not made a top priority. At Montclair Pediatric Dental, Dr. Tyra Manso has made her practice prevention-focused. Each patient receives a custom dental plan to ensure a healthy smile. Parents, this is an office that is very kid-friendly and aims to have them running in for check-ups.
Polished-Montclair | 190A Bloomfield Avenue
Staying polished (pun intended) is important for self-care. Being sure the salon offers great service while ensuring safety for its customers is even more important. Enter Polished, a nail studio in Montclair that checks all the boxes. Owners Marilyn and Michael have created a relaxing atmosphere and quality service. There is an extensive list of services available including standard manicures and pedicures, gel polish, SNS powder, ombre design, and more.
Rose + Co. Candle Makers | Online
The saying goes that “the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.” In this case, this is completely correct. Rose, daughter of Johanna Howard Home is running a successful handcrafted business just like her parents. At just 14 years old, Rose is creating sweet-smelling scents that are eco-friendly and dye-free. Beyond being good for the environment and easy on those living with allergies, a portion of proceeds from Rose and Co. candles supports charities championing girls’ education.
Saveur Creole | 131 Grove Street
Sharing food is sharing culture. That is exactly what is happening daily at Saveur Creole, a modern-day restaurant serving the best in this style of Caribbean cooking. Dishes that would be expected to be on a creole menu such as chicken etouffee are present as well as dishes for vegan diners such as a Haitian legume. Options for enjoying this food are plentiful. Saveur Creole is offering indoor dining via reservation, catering options, curbside pick up, and UberEats.
Sharron Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts | 14 S Park Street
For owner Sharon Miller, dance is the most compelling form of art. She shares her expertise, discipline, and leadership with her students at her namesake studio daily. In addition to dance classes and performing arts programming, the studio is available for parties and rentals.
Sofistafunk The Skirt Co. | Montclair
When looking to make a fashion statement, Sofistafunk is the place to go. “Here at Sofistafunk, our respect for the voluminous Skirt is unwavering and designed as a reminder that we are empowered to do great things as we offer of ourselves to empower another,” says owner Arlinda. The wide hooped skirts have outfitted the everyday woman and celebrities alike.
Stellar Smile Center | 39 The Crescent
Dr. Jackson is a Jersey girl through and through so it only made sense she open her practice in Montclair. After graduating from NJIT and UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School she completed her residency at JFK Medical Center in Edison. Her lists of services include preventative and general care, cosmetic procedures, and restorative services.
Styled Blu | Online
Events are created to make lasting memories. Owner Stephanie Volpe aims to do just that with her event planning business Styled Blu. Her catalog contains event planning for nonprofits, corporations, private events, and more. In addition to crafting events, Volpe also styles and sells home products.
Sweet T’s Southern Eatery | 387 Bloomfield Avenue
This spot prides itself on healthy, authentic, pork-free Southern eats. Whether you’re craving cornbread, mac + cheese, chicken + waffles, or something else, Sweet T’s has you covered. Owned and operated by Dre Perrin and Tonza Houston, alongside their chef, Chef Carlos Swepson, this team puts their love of soul food into every dish.
The Queen’s Quarters | Online
Shoppers can find handmade items for women, home, offices, and prayer rooms. The brand carries custom home decor pieces such as crosses, trays, coaster sets, artwork, and more. This small business was founded by artist Terry Webber, a born and raised Montclarion.
The Glass Touch Interiors | Online
In the world of Pinterest and Instagram, craving a home that is picture-perfect is a dream for many. Making it a reality can be the tricky part. That is where Britney, owner, and designer behind The Glass Touch Interiors comes into play. From creating office space that will make any business person feel like a boss to making an oasis out of a bedroom, she is the go-to for luxury interior needs.
Well in Montclair | 105 Grove Street, Suite 17
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Well in Montclair is a minority and woman-owned wellness practice. Founder Cathy Stephenson has been in the wellness industry since 2005. Fast forward to 2022, she started up Well in Montclair to help individuals of the Montclair community in their wellness paths to reach their high potential in their lifestyles with treatments and resources.
Wyanoke Builders | 7 Oak Place
Having construction work happening either at work or at home can be bothersome at times. Luckily, Wyanoke specializes in taking the headache out of pesky reconstruction work. With a focus on commercial, residential, and millwork, the professionals at Wyanoke are skilled in every area possible and allow for a seamless process. Follow along on Instagram for aesthetically pleasing projects sure to convince followers work is needed in the space.
Bloomfield
Add Pilates | 239 Glenwood Avenue
Owner Tracy Kelly was interested in fitness well before her start in the world of Pilates. Growing up, Kelly competed in track and field. Long after she hung up her cleats and worked in the fashion industry, it was a life-changing diagnosis that introduced her to Pilates. Now, Kelly’s passion is a lifestyle for her as the owner of Add Pilates, a studio where she teaches courses and shares her desire to help new mothers, particularly those dealing with postpartum issues.
Casa De Flora Bar | 75 Washington Street
Casa De Flora Bar is a luxury cafe-meets-flower shop that serves up lattes, cappuccinos, coffees, Espresso, lemonade refreshers, cronuts, cupcakes, salads, sandwiches, and of course — fresh flowers. The space is owned by floral designer Maritza Walton who describes the venue as “an upscale space [with] beautiful ceiling pink floral installs and gorgeous Instagrammable moments.”
Cheesecakes by Jacinda | Food Delivery Service
Cheesecakes on their own are a decadent and gourmet dessert. Add in Jacinda’s flair and it’s even more special. Cookies, cannolis, Oreos, and more are added to these special treats. These desserts are available in full-size cheesecakes, mini cheesecakes, and individually wrapped sizes. Contact Jacinda via email to place an order at cheesecakesbyjacinda@gmail.com.
Duly Organized | Home Organization Service
Duly Organized offers full-service home organization and helps take the stress out of getting organized. They’ll help you transform your environment “from a tumultuous sea into a safe harbor”. For over 20 years, Gervonna – the owner of Duly Organized, has worked as a professional home organizer and certified Health + Life Coach. Her whole approach is to help you prioritize your needs and deliver home organization systems tailored to the way you want to live.
F45 Training Bloomfield | 28 Broad Street
F45 Training Bloomfield is a fitness studio that’s specifically designed to provide a functional full-body workout while improving energy levels, metabolic rate, strength, + endurance. Each 45-minute workout aims to burn about 750 calories.
GoodeLiving | 321 Glenwood Avenue
GoodeLiving is a health, beauty, and nutrition shop in Bloomfield that sells bath + body products, skin products, health + wellness products, herbal tea, shirts, and more. The space also hosts classes and workshops on a variety of subjects.
Ikuzi Dolls | Online Shop
Growing up, the founder and mastermind behind Ikuzi Dolls Ozi only had one Black doll and it did not resemble her. Fast forward to motherhood and she was still having a tough time finding dolls that reflected the variety of skin tones of her and her daughters. She took matters into her own hands and Ikuzi Dolls was born. Now, finding dolls with a wide variety of skin tones, hair textures, and more is made easy.
In the Company of Yum | Pop-Up Shop
Calling all pie lovers. In the Company of Yum is the spot for all your greatest pie needs. The menu consists of a variety of pies including savory, sweet, and keto options. Traditional flavors such as apple and berry are available as well as more unique flavors like mocha creme and peanut butter chocolate.
Kolbys Styling Salon | 595 Bloomfield Avenue
Kolbys Styling Salon is a Bloomfield barbershop that has been in business since 2005 and services men, women, and children with all types of hair.
Kreme + Krumbs | 162 Glenwood Avenue
Ice cream is already a crowd favorite, add in premium dairy, seasonal ingredients, fine vanilla, and quality chocolate, and you have perfection. During the open season, Kreme and Krumbs have weekly flavors to ensure freshness and fun. Kick it up a notch with a “kremewhich,” the shop’s take on an ice cream sandwich that combines both cake and ice cream.
Lovelee Art Studios | 255 Hoover Avenue
Owner Lovelee Tang had dubbed herself a #MommaonaMission. She is taking her passion for mixed media arts (think paints and recycled materials) and the performing arts to empower children. Lovelee Art Studios is offering classes and programming virtually including an after-school enrichment program and a preschool art club
Montclair Learning Center | 57 Park Street
Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) studies are crucial to children’s grades K-8. The Montclair Learning Center is a small independent firm specializing in these courses. Executive Director Christiane Agkpo is a mom of four herself who wanted to provide affordable and quality education to children. She is doing just that. Outside of courses, the MLC hosts birthday parties, and games for kids.
Probody Massage | 330 Glenwood Avenue #201
Probody Massage is owned by Dane Lowther — a New Jersey state-licensed massage therapist that has been servicing the northern New Jersey area since 2010. The services at this spot help people relieve pain from injuries, stress, and muscle discomfort as well as maintain bodily and mental health.
RISE Fitness | 53 Farrand Street
This Bloomfield fitness spot is run by Ayo Fala. RISE has accrued over 12 years of experience working with all sorts of people, both those serious about pursuing fitness and those looking to stay healthy. It specializes in Strength & Endurance training that’s both progressive and sustainable.
Salon Femi | 1107 Broad Street
This beauty salon offers styles, colors, blowouts, and more. Owner Kenya Cephas has dedicated herself to her passion — hair styling and care — over the past 25 years. Back in 2009, she was voted a Nioxen expert. Kenya personalizes her approach to each client to ensure everyone gets the best care.
Save + Rave Consignment | 615 Bloomfield Avenue
Save and Rave Consignment is owned by Alonya, a woman who loves both fashion and the arts. Save and Rave sells women’s new, vintage, and gently loved clothing + accessories — and it’s packed full of fun and unique finds.
See More: A List of Black-Owned Businesses to Support in Hoboken + Jersey City
Sugaring NYC | 56 Broad Street
Sugaring NYC is an organic waxing and lash salon that offers Brazilian, body, and face sugaring, as well as v-facials, brow lamination, and lash lifts for women and men.
Sweet Trail Bakery | 170 Broad Street
This vegan bakery serves up lots of yummy treats. With cookies, brownies, cinnamon buns, iced coffee, and more on the menu, Sweet Trail lets you indulge in a way that’s good for you + good for the planet.
