Isiah Christie 
Montclair is full of locations worth visiting, and our job at The Montclair Girl is to highlight them. We wanted to flip the script and show what a day for our editors looks like when we visit. From gift shops to health-conscious bakeries, we’ve chronicled some of our editors’ favorite places to frequent, including former Best of Montclair award winners. Read on to see what a day in Montclair looks like for a Montclair Girl editor.
Connie’s Vintage Truck | 220 Bloomfield Avenue
A clothing boutique known for its specialty in vintage design, Connie’s Vintage Truck is one of Montclair’s premier options for thrifting. Owned by Dan Schulz, whose background in costume and show production increased his love for fashion, the store is a favorite for NJ and NYC shoppers interested in purchasing costumes.
With pieces ranging from the late 1800s to the Y2K fashion boom of the early 21st century, there is no era unrepresented in the space. Dan is also dedicated to client happiness through accepting their vintage pieces, doing alterations, and utilizing his experience in costume design to make a piece perfect.
Read More: A Guide to Thrift Stores + Antique Shops in Montclair
Houss Freya | 205 Glenridge Avenue
The winner of our “Best Woman-Owned Business” award for Best of Montclair 2024, Houss Freya is an apothecary specializing in self-care items of intention. Energy flows through the shop, with crystals, oils, stones, and candles filling the tables and shelves to help cleanse customers. The owner, Daysi Dedios, picked up holistic methods of managing life through crafting candles and sharing the wealth with family and friends. She encourages intention and routine with those looking to incorporate cleansing into their lives.
Daysi recommends that visitors to Houss Freya take charge and purchase a four-item starter kit to begin their journey, consisting of a candle, a clearing tool (smudge spray or incense), a crystal, and a self-care item. The goal is to create positive energy within oneself and protect it from the energy of others.
Houss Freya also hosts community events, welcoming guests such as tarot readers and healing experts. Kids are also welcome, with Daysi encouraging healing and growth for people of all ages.
Jerry’s Antiques + Estates | 229 Glenridge Avenue
Jerry Antiques + Estates is an antique store with a vast collection of vintage items to explore and purchase. From collectibles to tableware, just about anything can be found within their space. Jerry’s provides delivery service as well, should an item need a larger form of transportation or is going to a loved one. The team specializes in coordinating estate sales, with experience in appraisal, sale preparation, and full-service management. The goal is to provide “a smooth and profitable process”, with professionalism and an intention to maximize returns and deliver a positive client experience.
Mikki + Al’s Noshery | 179 Glenridge Avenue
Mikki + Al’s Noshery is a Jewish deli that brings nostalgia to the sandwich industry. With a large variety of authentic, Jewish fan favorite foods, every item is hearty and homely. The most popular items are the pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, which are made with the Noshery’s own meats and complemented by a rich selection of breads. Other standout items include the chopped chicken liver sandwich; the pastrami, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich; the chicken matzo ball soup; and Rugelach (cream cheese pastry). The menu can be found here.
Montclair Book Center | 221 Glenridge Avenue
One of the largest bookstores in the Tri-State area, the Montclair Book Center is three stories and full of adventure. With a collection of both vintage and new books, posters, vinyl records, T-shirts, and other collectibles, it is excellently organized and accessible. The first two floors host most of the reading selections, with the basement containing the CD and vinyl collections for music lovers. Children’s books are also widely available, making it a family-friendly visit. With items about niches of history, cooking, poetry, fitness, humor, religion, and more, the options for entertainment are endless.
Plum Bakery Gluten Free | 179 Glenridge Avenue
Plum Bakery is a gluten-free specialty bakery with a wide range of baked goods with attentiveness to health and inclusion. It was voted as the “Best Gluten-Free Menu” for Best of Montclair 2021, and it still provides quality years later. The eatery sells breads, cakes, pastries, breakfast items, and more, all free of common allergens and preservatives. The shop also has specialized menus for holidays, such as cheesecakes, applecakes, and round Challah loaves for Rosh Hashanah.
See More: Where to Get Jewish Treats in Northern New Jersey for 2025
White Rabbit Black Heart | 219 Glenridge Avenue
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Self-described as “an elegant and enchanting boutique”, White Rabbit Black Heart is a unique face in the Montclair boutique scene. The winner of the “Best Home Decor” award for Best of Montclair 2024, this shop focuses on curating thoughtful, unique gifts. White Rabbit sells jewelry, home decor, cards, and fragrances for a deep selection of considerate presents. The handmade chocolate is another specialty that has been beloved in the Montclair area for over ten years. Seasonal items also occupy the space, with seasonal scents and fun items for each holiday.
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