La Fontaine Cafe, located at 12 North Willow Street in Montclair, is a woman-owned cafe offering dine-in and takeout options for its delicious treats. Whether you need an afternoon caffeine boost or have a hankering for a delicate crepe, La Fontaine is here to serve. Read on to learn more about this enticing cafe in Montclair.
The Owner
Pinar Fazlioglu was born in Istanbul, Turkey, and lived there until her early 20s. After college, she came to the US. Although she moved halfway across the world, she is always true to her roots. Pinar says, “My grandmother named me Pinar […] she always wanted me to succeed. I wanted to honor her soul and name the cafe in my name. My name, Pinar, means fountain in Turkish. I wanted to name it Pinar […and] La Fontaine because […] Jean de La Fontaine is one of my favorite poets and his saying, ‘No paths of flowers leads to glory,’ inspires me for life.”
Her zest for life and her Turkish background are evident in the cafe. The menu is approachable while still featuring some of her native specialties. Pinar says, “My biggest passion in life is traveling and getting to know about new places, new cultures, and food.” She has taken a little bit of everything from her travels to create an amazing dining experience.
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The Atmosphere
With its eye-catching red awning and outdoor seating, you know before you even walk into La Fontaine that the energy will be great. Inside, you’ll find a neon sign that says, “My Happy Place,” and the sentiment is felt. Its decor is welcoming, eclectic, and whimsical.
There are lots of colors throughout – but not just with the paint and decor. Smack in the center of the restaurant’s front counter you’ll find gorgeous fruit used in La Fontaine’s fresh smoothies. There are art pieces and antiques throughout and it seems like every time you enter the restaurant your eye is drawn to something new and joyful.
The Menu
La Fontaine offers many Mediterranean items but also features French, Canadian, Turkish, Tex-Mex, and Italian noshes too. With items like crepes, baklava, croissants, and burek, you can take a little trip overseas while indulging. There is also a large sandwich menu featuring breakfast and lunch sandwiches to fuel you throughout the day.
The cafe also has gluten-free macaroons and a vegan option – the vegan tofu sandwich. Omnivores, carnivores, and everyone in between can find something delicious to eat here.
The organic chicken chipotle sandwich is one of La Fontaine’s best sellers. It’s creamy and spicy, and the bread is out-of-this-world delicious. In an area where we can find exceptional bread on any corner, the cafe’s Turkish bread really stands out. All of its sandwiches come on the bread and it’s the perfect mix of crunchy outside and pillowy soft inside.
For anyone with a sweet tooth, it’s Nutella and fruit crepe is for you. The crepes are freshly made and there are few pairings more satisfying than fruit and chocolate/hazelnut together. And, don’t miss out on their great smoothies made in-house. Stopping by with your pup? Make sure to order the Pupsmoothie and take home some of La Fontaine’s homemade doggie treats!
La Fontaine is open 6 days a week from Tuesday – Friday 7AM – 4PM and Saturday – Sunday 8AM – 4PM. Check out this adorable corner cafe for a worldly breakfast or lunch experience.
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Follow La Fontaine Cafe to see all of its drool-worthy food on Instagram @lafontainecafemontclair.
