One of my favorite things to do in Montclair is wander around searching for the best cup of coffee. Montclair offers a variety of unique coffee experiences. A cafe to your liking can be sought out in every corner of the town. I have learned every cafe is different with its own history and culture. As a barista myself, I pay attention to the worker’s attitudes and the different aesthetics I have witnessed. Here are some of the best plac es I have found.
1. Trend Coffee & Tea House
Trend Coffee and Tea House on 411 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair. Dani Mazariegos | The Montclarion
Built in 1860, Trend Coffee & Tea House offers a unique and beautiful experience. The walls are covered in intricate artwork with a timeless feeling. Upon walking in, this cafe encapsulates you within its beauty and culture. The work of local artists is featured on the walls throughout. The cafe hosts open mic nights and live performances. They showcase local musicians during jam sessions. Trend also specializes in vegan pastries. Can I just move in?
Address: 411 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
2. Jayce Baudry French Pastry
Jayce Baudry French bakery, located on 17 Church Street, Montclair. Dani Mazariegos | The Montclarion
If you are looking for a trip to France without the airfare, head over to Jayce Baudry French Pastry. This cafe and bakery offers gourmet pastries that will not break your bank account. This cafe is attached to a plaza featuring The Clairidge Theatre and other attractions. Because of this, you can visit a few other places without having to step outside in the cold November weather.
This hidden gem features pastry chef Jayce Baudry’s culinary creations. He worked as a Demi Chef de Partie at a 3-star Michelin palace Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris, France.
“My mother was a hardworking single parent. She rarely had time for cooking, and even less for baking cakes. So, I think it was this lack of sweets in my childhood that inspired me to begin baking my first cakes, using store-bought cake mixes,” said Baudry, according to the cafe’s website.
Make sure to try one of the elegant pastries when visiting this spot!
Address: 17 Church Street, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
3. Paper Planes
Paper Planes Co. located at 61 N Fullerton Ave, Montclair. Dani Mazariegos | The Montclarion
Despite only opening in 2019, Paper Plane has made its mark on Montclair with its award-winning brews. It can be found on North Fullerton Ave, usually with a line out the door with huge windows and plane-inspired decor, it is hard to miss. Upon stepping inside you will find plane-inspired seating while being greeted by friendly workers. Do not forget to check out their awesome merch! Just make sure to budget your time wisely because of the line out the door.
Paper Planes has won four awards in The Golden Bean Competition. At the shop, they have a wide variety of beans up for purchase. On their website, you can find more information about the specific flavor notes in the brews.
Address: 61 N Fullerton Ave, Montclair, New Jersey 07042
4. Java Love
Java Love Coffee Roasting Co. location on Bellevue Avenue Montclair. Dani Mazariegos | The Montclarion
Java Love has a home-like cozy feeling that I have not seen replicated anywhere else. This spot is women-owned and offers a wide variety of charming seasonal drinks. Visiting this shop is never a dull experience because of the awesome staff and service that they provide. Who knew you could get a drink called the “Whitney’s Material Gourd”? Java Love aims to build strong community connections through coffee.
On the Java Love website, the owners said, “As homeowners in the Sullivan Catskills, we couldn’t get a good cup of coffee – so we set out on an adventure in search of the ultimate coffee and found [the business] who wanted to entrust their business to people who would carry on the same great quality established over their 15-year span.”
Java Love has not one but two locations in Montclair!
Addresses: 244 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair, New Jersey 07043; 49 Church Street, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
5. Eagle Rock Cafe
There is something in the air at Eagle Rock Cafe that helps me get my work done. Their exquisite cold brew can help anyone power through their school or homework. This cafe is often busy and has both indoor and outdoor seating. Even though it has a “hustle” vibe, it is also a great spot to rewind with a friend. This spot is very homey and has different nooks to explore. It is only an eleven-minute drive from Montclair State University. Due to its small size, it can fill up quickly so make sure to get a seat early on!
Address: 202 Bellevue Ave, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
