Bar Franco

- 5 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042

For discerning New Jersey residents seeking a refined evening out—a place where the art of the cocktail is paramount and the atmosphere transports you to a chic European setting—**Bar Franco** in Montclair is the premier destination. Far surpassing the offerings of a typical night club, Bar Franco defines itself as an **upscale, bespoke aperitivo bar and sophisticated lounge**, providing an experience of elegance and luxury right in Essex County. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate high-caliber mixology, exceptional Italian cuisine, and a truly vibrant yet intimate ambiance. Located on the boutique Church Street, Bar Franco offers the perfect blend of New York City mystique and local New Jersey warmth.

The moment you arrive, the opulent atmosphere, inspired by old-world Italian traditions and the grandeur of the Prohibition era, sets a captivating tone. Patrons are often greeted by a doorman and velvet rope, signaling the venue’s dedication to an elevated standard. Inside, the design features striking elements like chandeliers and velvet seating, creating a cozy, romantic, and distinctly trendy environment. This is the ultimate place in Montclair for locals to enjoy a pre-dinner drink, celebrate a special occasion, or simply unwind with a unique cocktail prepared by world-renowned experts.

Bar Franco is perfectly positioned in the heart of downtown Montclair, a key destination for sophisticated dining and entertainment across North Jersey. You can find this exquisite lounge at **5 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA**. The Church Street location is renowned for its charming, pedestrian-friendly environment, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

For guests driving from nearby communities, the area offers convenience, although being a busy downtown hub requires some planning. Parking is available via **paid street parking**, and for those seeking utmost ease, **valet parking is also available**. While parking can sometimes be an issue during peak times, the availability of valet service provides a convenient solution for a seamless arrival. Furthermore, the central position in Montclair’s vibrant shopping and dining district ensures it's easily accessible via major roads and local transport options, cementing its status as a highly desirable local spot.

Bar Franco offers a curated selection of services designed to enhance the experience of its sophisticated New Jersey clientele, whether they are visiting for a quick pre-dinner drink or settling in for an evening of luxury. The lounge is committed to providing service that is prompt, attentive, and consistent with a high-caliber establishment.

The range of services includes:

• **Dine-in and Table Service:** Guests can enjoy the opulent atmosphere with full table service, ensuring an experience of comfort and attention, which is ideal for a date night or group celebration.
• **Outdoor Seating:** Perfect for enjoying the vibrant Church Street ambiance, with soft American and Italian jazz music often adding to the setting on pleasant evenings.
• **Takeout:** While primarily an upscale lounge, takeout options may be available for select offerings.
• **Food and Drink Service at the Bar:** Patrons can sit at the bar and enjoy great ambiance while being served the lounge's full menu of exceptional cocktails and savory Italian Cicchetti.
• **Reservations:** Although not strictly mandatory for all visits, reservations are **recommended for larger events** or special occasions to ensure adequate space and accommodation.

Bar Franco’s appeal to the New Jersey market lies in its unparalleled commitment to quality, exclusivity, and entertainment, elevating it far beyond a standard cocktail bar. Every detail, from the drink menu to the decor, is meticulously crafted to create a distinctive luxury experience.

The primary features and highlights include:

• **Bespoke Italian Cocktails:** The centerpiece of Bar Franco is its beverage program, featuring an extensive, custom-made Italian drink list created by **world-renowned mixologist Luca Cinalli** and his team, who hail directly from Italy. Specialties include the **Lu Café Martini** (their espresso martini), the tequila-infused **Sambuchino**, and the signature **Bar Franco Spritz**, promising an experience you won't find anywhere else.
• **Live Music and Live Performances:** The lounge hosts **LIVE Jazz Duos** every Thursday and Friday evening, and during Sunday brunch, creating a romantic and sophisticated auditory backdrop that perfectly complements the upscale environment.
• **Exclusive Speakeasy Access:** A highly exclusive feature is the basement speakeasy, **La Tana**, which is open solely on weekends and available only to a select group of members, offering an extra layer of mystique and exclusivity for a special crowd.
• **Decadent Italian Small Plates (Cicchetti):** The lounge menu features high-end Italian snacks and small plates, including the delicious **Ricotta Tartufo**, **Caprese e Burrata**, **Polpo Alla Griglia**, and indulgent items like **Golden Osetra Caviar**, perfect for pairing with a bespoke cocktail.
• **The Signature La Bomba Dessert:** For those seeking ultimate decadence, the lounge serves its signature dessert, **La Bomba**, a luxurious confection of chocolate mousse, vanilla cream, and a **24-karat gold leaf**, a testament to the lounge’s opulent spirit. Other desserts like **Tiramisu By Mamma Giuseppina** are also available.
• **Upscale Attire Required:** To maintain its sophisticated atmosphere, the lounge asks guests to observe a **business casual dress code**, ensuring the environment remains elegant and appropriate for a high-end night out.

For reservations, inquiries about the bespoke cocktail menu, or to plan your elegant night out in Montclair, New Jersey, please use the following contact details for Bar Franco:

**Address:**5 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA

**Phone Number (Local):**(973) 337-5100

**Phone Number (Mobile):**+1 973-337-5100

For New Jersey locals seeking a destination that flawlessly combines world-class mixology with an unforgettable, upscale atmosphere, Bar Franco is unequivocally worth choosing. It provides an escape that feels like a chic European lounge, without the expense or hassle of traveling to New York City or abroad.

The primary reason to choose Bar Franco is the caliber of its beverages. The dedication to **bespoke Italian cocktails**, crafted by world-renowned experts, ensures that every drink is a meticulously designed experience, not just a casual pour. From the unique flavor profile of the **Pera Caramellata** to the complex notes of the **Fennel Oil Martini**, the cocktail menu is an adventure in modern mixology rooted in Italian tradition. This focus on high-end cocktails is backed by a **great wine list**, catering to all preferences for fine alcohol and spirits.

Furthermore, the atmosphere elevates Bar Franco above its competition. The trendy, romantic, and cozy setting—complete with soft American and Italian jazz from the **LIVE Jazz Duo**—makes it a perfect choice for an intimate **date night** or a chic gathering with a **group** of friends. Customers consistently note the great ambiance, whether they are enjoying a meal outside or sitting at the sleek bar. The ability to grab delicious, high-quality **Cicchetti** like the **Ricotta Tartufo** or **Caprese e Burrata** alongside an exceptional drink makes it an ideal spot for a quick, elegant pre-dinner stop or a full evening.

Finally, the exclusivity and attention to detail—from the business casual dress code to the availability of valet parking and the truly decadent **La Bomba** dessert—demonstrate Bar Franco’s commitment to providing a top-tier, sophisticated experience. Whether you’re a local who frequently dines on Church Street or someone looking for a special place to celebrate, Bar Franco delivers a complete package of luxury, flavor, and unique entertainment that is unparalleled in the North Jersey lounge scene.

Bar Franco

5 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA