Spots I love in Essex County

An authentic French bakery that makes every morning feel special. The croissants and pain au chocolat are the real deal.

A neighborhood gem on Glenwood Ave with great espresso and a relaxed, creative vibe. Perfect for a weekend read.

Multiple locations and consistently solid coffee. The Grove St spot has a great patio for people-watching.

A Montclair institution. The breakfast is as good as people say, and it's always buzzing on weekends.

Cozy, unpretentious, and great for a quick breakfast before hitting the Village shops. A true local hangout.

A great coffee and baked goods spot near the park. Nice place to walk through the park to get there, and a relaxed vibe if you want to settle in and work for a while.

French-inspired, always elegant, and great for a special occasion. The outdoor seating on Church St is unbeatable in warm weather.

Mediterranean done right. The flavors are bold, the portions are generous, and it's consistently one of the best meals in town.

Upscale but approachable. The kind of place where the food impresses but you still feel comfortable.

French bistro with a loyal following. Worth the splurge for anniversaries or when you just want something really good.

A classic NJ diner that does everything well. Open late, fast service, and the kind of menu that always satisfies.

A fresh, modern lunch spot that does sandwiches and bowls with real personality. A go-to when you're in the Village.

Famous for a reason. Great sandwiches, ice cream, and an old-school charm that keeps people coming back for decades.

Breakfast and lunch done with care. A newer spot that's already earned a loyal following.

Don't let the name fool you Anthony's is a full restaurant with an affordable, delicious savory menu that's the real draw. Burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and more done right. The cheesecake is still a highlight, but people come back for the food.

Our go-to spot for sushi on Glenwood Ave. Aki is a local sushi and Asian restaurant that's earned a loyal following fresh rolls, solid flavors, and a reliable pick when you're in the mood for great Asian food.

Portuguese barbecue done right. A local favorite with bold flavors that keep people coming back.

Jamaican food that's become a local go-to. The flavors are vibrant and the portions are generous.

Greek food on Broad Street with a loyal local following. A solid pick for a casual, satisfying meal.

A longtime Greek favorite on Broad Street homemade dishes, warm hospitality, and a BYOB setup that makes it easy to linger over a great meal.

A solid local pizza spot on Glenwood Ave. Worth knowing about when you want a quick, satisfying slice without any fuss.

A favorite local ice cream spot in Bloomfield. The gelato is fresh, the flavors rotate, and it's the kind of place that turns a regular afternoon into a small celebration.

One of the best brunches in Essex County. Expect a wait on weekends, and know that it's completely worth it.

A stylish brunch destination with creative cocktails and a menu that goes beyond the usual suspects.

Reliable, delicious, and always packed for a reason. The kind of brunch that makes you a regular.

No-frills, affordable, and everything you want from a weekend brunch. A Maplewood staple.

The Manhattan skyline view from up here will take your breath away. Perfect for sunset walks and Sunday picnics.

Miles of trails, a waterfall, and a real escape from the suburbs without leaving the county. My go-to for a weekend hike.

A gorgeous, sprawling park with walking paths, sports fields, and a rose garden. Great for families.

A quiet, reflective outdoor space right next to the museum. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.

Turtle Back Zoo, the Waterfront playground, and paddle boats all in one spot. A family day out that never gets old.

An entire village of independent shops, bookstores, and cafes. Walking through here on a Saturday is one of my favorite things.

An independent bookstore that's the heart of the community. The staff picks are always spot-on.

Bloomfield Ave is lined with boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. Easy to spend an entire afternoon here.

Walkable, charming, and full of local businesses. The kind of downtown that makes you proud to live nearby.

Live music, theater, and comedy in an intimate venue. One of the best cultural spots in the county.

A beloved annual event that brings filmmakers and film lovers together. The screenings and Q&As are always memorable.

A monthly community event that brings the whole town together. Live music, food, and a great neighborhood vibe.

The Bloomfield Ave corridor between towns is always hosting something: farmers markets, art walks, and street festivals throughout the year.