Where to Stop on Walnut Street
By Mike Delia
Hello Montclairians! Hope all is well. As previously mentioned, I will be doing an “Around The Neighborhood” series on the different districts in Montclair. Recently I covered Montclair Center, Upper Montclair, and two weeks ago Watchung Plaza. This week I will be featuring the Walnut Street district. Relatively small, Walnut Street still packs a punch especially when it comes to dining. Some of Montclair’s well-known food establishments call Walnut Street home. The primary cluster of restaurants and stores are located between Forest & Grove Streets.
Dining:
Egan & Sons Outdoor Space. Image courtesy of Egan & Sons
Longtime fixture Egan & Sons has been one of Montclair’s go-to restaurants. An Irish pub including great Irish fare, drinks, and beers on tap. Although temporarily closed due to Tropical Storm Ida last month, Egan’s will be reopening shortly. Be sure to check out their sister restaurant next door Halcyon Seafood Brasserie which recently reopened due to the storm.
Pizza from Brick + Dough. Image courtesy of Brick + Dough
Relatively new to the Montclair dining scene Brick + Dough features wood-fired pizzas and bakery items. Some of the more popular pizzas on the menu are their Margherita, BBQ Chicken, and their NY Style. On the bakery side, be sure to check out their cookies, chocolate babka, and gluten-free bread.
Sweets & Treats:
Different Doughnuts at Montclair Bread. Image courtesy of Montclair Bread
Another longtime Montclair staple, Montclair Bread has delicious bread, pastries and let’s not forget about their mouthwatering doughnuts. Some of their more popular doughnut selections are their Nutella, tres leches, apple crumb, Boston cream, and Fruity Pebbles doughnut. Montclair Bread also holds classes and events. Their menu can be ordered online and picked up at the store.
Coffee from Red Eye Café. Image courtesy of Red Eye Café
Red Eye Café has been enticing residents and commuters since 2012 with its delicious coffees and food options. Only open for breakfast and lunch some of their items include drip coffee, espresso, latte, macchiato, hot chocolate, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, French toast, omelets, salads, and soups.
Brewery:
Flight from Montclair Brewery. Image courtesy of Montclair Brewery.
If it’s a great beer that you want look no further than Montclair Brewery. A fun atmosphere with a laid-back vibe, the brewery offers a selection of draught craft beers as well as non-alcoholic drinks. The brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating on their patio with weather permitting.
Shopping:
Curated Home & Living store. Image courtesy of Curated Home & Living
Opened during the pandemic, Curated Home & Living features eclectic and funky décor for your home. The store is New York & European-inspired décor made from crafted materials. Owners Michael & Danielle Zinn from Montclair hand pick what goes into the store. Everything from pillows to textiles to table linens, Curated Home & Living is a must-stop for those looking to add a little bit of excitement to their home.
Fall clothing from Velvet Lush. Image courtesy of Velvet Lush.
Located at the corner of Walnut & Forest Streets, Velvet Lush has clothing for women. From dresses to tops to jeans with amazing customer service Velvet Lush is a clothing stop that must not be missed. Velvet Lush recently opened a location at the Menlo Park Mall in Edison.
In two weeks, I will be covering the South End neighborhood. Until then, see you soon Montclair!
