It should be common knowledge that most New Jersey locals are in love with Taylor ham’s (or pork roll’s) counterpart — cheese. If the dairy product couldn’t get even more noteworthy than just simply existing, restaurants have begun to include cheese experiences on menus in recent years, from table-side pasta in cheese wheels to raclette. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best restaurants in the area to have one-of-a-kind experiences fit for any special, or even ordinary, night out. Read on for a list of eateries that have interactive cheese experiences in Montclair and the surrounding area.
Cucina Calandra | 26 U.S. Highway 46 East, Fairfield
Cucina Calandra prides itself on serving classic Italian cuisine in a family-friendly environment. Thursdays are now its burrata bar night from 4:30PM until close. As the cheese is imported from Puglia, Italy, unlimited accompaniments include long hot peppers, roasted peppers, mortadella, soppressata, eggplant caponata, hot honey, and more. It’s completely customizable and prepared tableside by Chef Sergio.
Read More: Where to Get Unique Grilled Cheese in Montclair + Beyond
La Reggia Restaurant | 40 Wood Avenue, Secaucus
While La Reggia is a go-to venue for weddings and other private events, its dining experience is also just as memorable. It has a side table pasta cheese wheel with its dinner menu every night. Pick any type of macaroni and pair it with cacio e pepe or any other desired cream-based sauce.
Plated by D | 390 Hackensack Avenue (inside the The Shops at Riverside), Hackensack
This 21st-century business sprouted out of the pandemic and has been a dream come true for any cheese-lover. While the storefront is known for its build-your-own charcuterie cups and platters, it also has classes and themed events throughout the week for all ages. From Tipsy Tuesdays and BYOB Wine Down Wednesdays to private Plate + Sip parties and kids classes, the cheese-y education knows no limits.
Popolari | 1047 Broad Street, Bloomfield
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Popolari is an award-winning, “retro-chic” pizzeria and pasta bar fit for any carb-hungry customer. Order its side table pasta alla routa (cheese wheel pasta) that’s on the menu all day (depending on availability). Pair it with its signature sangria and the taste of Milan can be found right at home.
Roma Coffee Bar + Pizzeria | 312 Clifton Avenue, Clifton
This Mediterranean restaurant located in the heart of Clifton is known for its Turkish coffee, but it also serves up an extensive menu with options fit for any craving. An enticing choice is its delicious side table pasta in a cheese wheel. No one can go wrong with indulging in some carbonara with prosciutto while sitting in its ambient atmosphere.
See More: 24 Foodie Activities in Hoboken + Jersey City
Van Hook Cheese + Grocery | 11 Grove Street, Montclair
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This family-owned and cut-to-order artisanal cheese shop serves more than just cheese by the pound. Along with charcuterie boards as big as 16 inches by 16 inches, the storefront has a menu of decadent grilled cheeses served on sourdough Pullman bread. Patrons can dress up a classic grilled cheese with toppings like fig spread, Mike’s hot honey, and various meats. There’s also a flexible monthly cheese club for the average cheese lover or curious foodie to explore up to four artisan cheeses with other paired snacks.
