Allegory Restaurant and Bar

- 690 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042

Welcome to your local guide to one of Montclair, New Jersey’s standout dining and social destinations: Allegory Restaurant and Bar. Located conveniently within The MC Hotel, Allegory offers a modern gastropub experience that effortlessly blends trendy ambiance with a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for locals, friends, and visitors alike seeking an elevated yet comfortable meal or a night out in North Jersey. As a signature restaurant, Allegory aims to be more than just a hotel eatery; it’s a destination for quality food, an impressive beverage program, and memorable social gatherings.

The concept of a gastropub is fully embraced here, meaning you can expect classic comfort food dishes elevated by a sophisticated, chef-driven approach. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a lively dinner, or just a round of meticulously crafted cocktails, Allegory promises a fresh, exciting, and high-quality experience. The venue’s dedication to providing top-tier hospitality and an excellent culinary experience has made it a reliable fixture in Montclair's bustling food scene.

One of the first things local patrons notice is the restaurant’s commitment to providing an all-around enjoyable experience—from the food presentation to the attentive table service. It’s an ideal setting whether you're planning a fun 'Girl’s Night Out,' as one customer review noted, or simply enjoying a delicious solo meal. Their dedication to a diverse menu ensures there is something for every palate, ranging from light starters to hearty main courses and carefully curated cocktails.

The menu structure itself is designed to offer a variety of choices for different dining preferences. Starters like the popular TUNA TARTARE TACOS ($15.00), a shareable BIG OL' PRETZEL ($14.00), or the indulgent SMOTHERED ONION RINGS ($16.00) are perfect for setting the mood. For lighter fare, classic salads like the GREEN SALAD GF ($12.00) and ICEBERG WEDGE SALAD GF ($13.00) are available, with gluten-friendly (GF) options clearly marked for patrons with dietary considerations.

The main courses continue this mix of elevated comfort and sophisticated preparation. Diners can choose from a robust selection of entrées, including the DOUBLE PATTY SMASH BURGER GFO ($16.00) and the popular GRILLED NEW YORK* STRIP STEAK FRITES GF/DF ($52.00). Seafood lovers will appreciate the CRISPY SKIN SALMON GF ($35.00) or the rich SEAFOOD FRA DIAVOLA PASTA ($27.00). The restaurant also ensures vegetarian options are available, such as the BLACK BEAN VEGGIE BURGER GFO ($14.00), upholding its commitment to accommodate a wide range of tastes.

When it comes to beverages, Allegory is well-known for its great cocktails and wine list. The cocktail menu features intriguing options like the MC OLD FASHIONED ($15.00), WA-HAKAN TEA PARTY ($16.00), and MAYBE I DO ($16.00). Their expansive drink offerings also include a carefully selected list of sparkling, white, pink, and red wines, available by the glass or bottle. Beer enthusiasts can choose from a great selection of draft beers, including local New Jersey brews like BOLERO ($9.00), HOBOKEN CITY ($9.00), and 902 BREWING ($9.00), alongside popular choices like STELLA ($9.00) and MILLER LITE ($8.00). Additionally, the Spirit-Free menu, featuring a NO-JITO ($12.00) and MANGO LIMONADA FIZZ ($12.00), ensures everyone can enjoy a refreshing, sophisticated drink.

The customer reviews consistently highlight the quality of the food and the exceptional service. The breakfast, in particular, has received high praise, with one guest complimenting the 'simply good food, done classically, done well' and giving a 'special mention for the mashed potatoes'—a seemingly simple side elevated to memorable perfection. This emphasis on quality ingredients and masterful preparation is a hallmark of the Allegory experience across all dining times, be it a quick power breakfast, an easy lunch, or a full dinner.

Location and Accessibility

Allegory Restaurant and Bar is strategically located in the heart of Montclair, New Jersey, making it highly accessible for both local residents and those visiting the area. The restaurant is situated at 690 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA, and operates as the signature restaurant within The MC Hotel, Autograph Collection. This central location in the bustling downtown area provides both convenience and a sophisticated backdrop for any dining occasion.

For New Jersey locals planning a visit, especially by car, parking is a key consideration in Montclair. Allegory, by being part of The MC Hotel, has access to the hotel's covered parking and valet services at the 690 Bloomfield Ave address, offering a clear and convenient option for arriving guests. Nearby municipal parking garages, such as the Valley & Bloom Garage and the LM Montclair Parking West Garage, also provide hourly parking options for those who prefer them, ensuring that finding a spot near your dining destination is manageable. Furthermore, the venue’s location boasts excellent accessibility features, including a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating, making it a welcoming choice for all patrons.

For those traveling using public transit or simply seeking an evening out, the downtown Montclair location is easily reachable from various points in the region, positioning Allegory as an excellent local destination for a night out without the hassle of a long commute.

Services Offered

• Dine-in Service: Full-service dining for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, complete with comfortable seating and table service.
• Takeout: Convenient options are available for those who prefer to enjoy Allegory’s cuisine at home.
• Outdoor Seating: Enjoy your meal or cocktails outside when the New Jersey weather is inviting.
• Bar Service: A dedicated area for enjoying a full selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, with food available at the bar.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, with brunch reservations and dinner reservations recommended, particularly during busy times.
• Private Events: The restaurant's features, including private dining, suggest suitability for accommodating groups and private parties.
• Accessibility: Full provision for guests with mobility needs, including a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating.
• Kid-Friendly Amenities: High chairs are available, and the menu includes a kids' menu, making it suitable for family dining.
• Payment Options: Accepts all major credit cards for convenience.

Features / Highlights

• Gastropub Menu: A modern approach to comfort food, featuring elevated dishes like the GRILLED NEW YORK* STRIP STEAK FRITES GF/DF ($52.00), CRISPY SKIN SALMON GF ($35.00), and a variety of starters and shared plates.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: Recognized for having a great beer selection, a great wine list, and creative cocktails such as the MC OLD FASHIONED ($15.00) and WA-HAKAN TEA PARTY ($16.00).
• Atmosphere and Vibe: Offers a 'Cozy' and 'Trendy' ambiance, creating a modern and elegant setting for any meal.
• Entertainment: Regular live music and live performances enhance the dining and social experience.
• Hospitality: Known for its fast service and attentive staff, with a focus on exceptional customer care, as evidenced by positive feedback on busy breakfast service.
• Versatile Popularity: Highly popular for various dining occasions, including Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.
• Diverse Crowd Appeal: Welcoming to a wide array of patrons, including Groups, Families (with a kids’ menu and high chairs), the LGBTQ+ community, and Tourists.

Contact Information

Address: 690 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA

Phone: (973) 329-5574 or +1 973-329-5574

What is Worth Choosing

For New Jersey residents looking for a reliable, high-quality dining and bar experience in the Montclair area, Allegory Restaurant and Bar truly distinguishes itself. What makes it worth choosing is the seamless combination of a welcoming atmosphere with a sophisticated culinary approach. It strikes a perfect balance between being an upscale dining venue and a laid-back, modern gastropub.

The menu is a testament to the kitchen's dedication, offering classic comfort food prepared with precision—from the highly-rated breakfast (including those famous, perfectly prepared mashed potatoes) to the decadent dinner entrées. For a memorable night out, the cocktail program is a definite draw. Their bartenders create imaginative, quality drinks that complement the atmosphere and the food, backed by an extensive list of wines and local beers. The option for reservations is a significant plus, allowing locals to plan their experience without the long wait times often associated with Montclair's top spots.

Furthermore, the inclusion of live music and live performances elevates a standard dinner into an engaging social experience. Whether you're gathering friends for a celebration, treating a date to a romantic evening, or simply seeking a comfortable and chic spot for a solo meal or a drink at the bar, Allegory’s reputation for fast, friendly service in a trendy yet cozy setting ensures a consistently positive outing. Allegory is not just a place to eat; it is an engaging local destination where quality, comfort, and culture converge.

Allegory Restaurant and Bar

690 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA