Essex County is making a name for itself by embracing restaurants that serve modern and unique twists of cuisines from every culture. Spots like Pasta Ramen in Montclair serves ramen with an Italian twist in an upbeat, city-vibe space, while Perla Oyster Bar in Maplewood creates oyster dishes with imaginative cooking. For a creative spin on tequila, tacos, and traditional Mexican dishes, head to Nómada — located at 700 Bloomfield Avenue in Verona — where the restaurant transports diners to Tulum, and it feels like you are on vacation, if for only a couple of hours. Read more about the Verona’s newest Mexican restaurant, Nómada, and the team that brought it to life.

About Nómada

Nómada is near Verona Park at 700 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona. It is the newest venture from the Skopos Hospitality Group. A few of the other restaurants from the Skopos team are Cowan’s Public in Nutley, The Barrow House in Clifton, Franklin Social in Jersey City, and The Parkside Social, next door to Nómada.

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Brothers Dean and Thomas Maroulakos are co-founders and partners of Skopos and grew up in Wayne, New Jersey. Dean oversees the concept and design of each of the spaces, working closely with his chef and bar manager to ensure his vision comes to life. For Nómada, Dean was inspired by the modern yet relaxed vibe of Tulum, Mexico, and the extravagance of Acapulco in the 1980s. The atmosphere is transportive and inviting. From the terra cotta floors, the arched doorways, colorful accents, and eucalyptus poles, diners are encouraged to relax and enjoy the beautiful food and playful cocktails with their families and friends.

The Menu

Executive Chef Sabrina Goncalve’s menu is inspired by the beaches of Mexico and the creative food scene in Tulum. Her dishes are committed to locally and regionally sourced ingredients, encouraging sharing and celebrating Mexico. The Esquites are a modern version of Mexican street corn, which The Montclair Girl could not get enough of. Ceviche De Camarones is fresh and bright with just the right amount of kick. Do not skip the Chicharrón, which is fried pork with pepper flakes and lime. It is addictive. There is a taco for every palette and Nómada’s specialty, the Birria Taco, showcases short rib and Queso Oaxaca. To share, try the Mojarra Frita, a whole fried fish.

 

Beverages

Amarinys Luna, the head mixologist, curates Nómada’s extensive cocktail list. Her celebration of agave spirits, regional tequilas, and mezcals is evident in the show-stopping drinks and frozen cocktails. The El Martini is creative yet understated, and the Dessert Water evokes the beach. There are also spirit-free cocktails, and be sure to take notice of the wine list, which highlights and supports regional wines from Mexico.

Dessert

The Mangonada, a fresh mango and mango sorbet, is an explosion of flavors. Have some fun and sprinkle Tajin on top for a salty twist that enhances the taste. The Tres Leches cake with strawberry and whipped cream is heavenly.

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Hours

Nómada is open for dinner Monday through Thursday from 4PM-12AM (kitchen closes at 10 PM), Friday through Saturday from 4PM – 1AM ( kitchen closes at 11 PM), and Sunday from 4PM-10PM (kitchen closes at 9 PM). Lunch hours start on March 3rd, and the hours will be Monday through Sunday from 11AM-2:45PM (kitchen closed daily from 3PM-4PM). Brunch starts on March 15th, and will take place on Saturdays and Sundays from 11AM-2:45PM (kitchen closed from 3PM-4PM).

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