Fresco Da Franco

- 15 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042

For residents of Northern New Jersey searching for an authentic, refined, and vibrant Italian dining experience, look no further than **Fresco Da Franco** in the heart of Montclair. This establishment is far more than just a restaurant; it’s a premier event venue and a local institution that embodies the spirit of traditional Italian hospitality combined with modern culinary excellence. Located on the picturesque Church Street, Fresco Da Franco is frequently lauded by locals for its sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for everything from a casual lunch to a romantic, memorable date night.

The restaurant prides itself on its authentic Italian roots, driven by a commitment to fresh, refined flavors. Patrons consistently praise the commitment to quality, especially the **pasta fatta di casa** (homemade pasta), which is a clear highlight of the menu. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere—described as cozy, romantic, and trendy—transports you, giving a feeling of being steps away from Italy itself. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a large group, or simply enjoying a meal alone, Fresco Da Franco is dedicated to delivering an elevated experience. The comprehensive menu, dynamic cocktail program, and professional service ensure every visit is a special occasion.

Fresco Da Franco is ideally situated at **15 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA**, placing it at the center of Montclair's bustling downtown area. Church Street is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly location, which adds to the charming, city-like atmosphere that New Jersey diners appreciate.

Given the prime, central location, the restaurant offers convenient parking options for guests:

• **Valet Parking:** For effortless parking, valet service is available, often provided for private parties at a cost.
• **Paid Parking Lot:** Guests can utilize nearby paid parking facilities.
• **Accessibility:** Fresco Da Franco is committed to being welcoming to all. The venue features a **wheelchair accessible entrance**, **wheelchair accessible restroom**, and **wheelchair accessible seating**.

Fresco Da Franco provides a complete range of services, catering to various dining needs and private event planning in the New Jersey area.

• **Full-Service Dining:** Enjoy professional **table service** during **Breakfast**, **Brunch**, **Lunch**, and **Dinner**. The dining atmosphere is cozy and romantic, often featuring **live music**.
• **Outdoor Seating:** Enjoy your meal al fresco with charming **Outdoor Seating** on Church Street, which offers a great, lively vibe.
• **Reservations Required/Recommended:** Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended for all dining periods (**Lunch reservations recommended**, **Brunch reservations recommended**, **Dinner reservations recommended**), and sometimes required. For parties larger than six, calling (973) 337-5100 ext. 3 is advised.
• **Extensive Beverage Program:** The restaurant boasts a **Bar Onsite** with a **Great Wine List**, a selection of **Beer**, **Cocktails**, and **Hard Liquor**. They also offer special **Happy Hour Drinks** and **Happy Hour Food**.
• **Takeout & Delivery:** For those preferring to dine at home, **Takeout** and **Delivery** services are available, including **Curbside Pickup** and **No-Contact Delivery**.
• **Private Dining and Event Venue:** Fresco Da Franco and its exclusive sister cocktail spot, **Bar Franco**, are both available for private events. They offer **full rentals for up to 130 people** and specialize in hosting weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, and large celebrations.
• **Catering & Event Customization:** A dedicated events team works to customize your private event, assisting with details from a **personalized menu** and **floral arrangements** to sourcing **entertainment options** like DJs and videographers.
• **Guest Amenities:** The restaurant provides **Restrooms**, **Wi-Fi**, and is **Family-Friendly** with **High Chairs** available for younger guests. It is also noted as being **LGBTQ+ friendly** and a **transgender safe space**.

Fresco Da Franco's reputation is built on a few key features that draw diners from across New Jersey seeking an authentic Italian dining experience and upscale event hosting.

• **Handmade Pasta Excellence:** The commitment to quality is showcased in their **Pasta Fatta Di Casa** section, featuring meticulously crafted dishes like **Fettucine Cartoccia** ($27.95), **Orecchiette Con Salsiccia E Broccoli Rabe** ($21.95), and **Brown Butter Gnocchi** ($19.95).
• **Premier Event Venue Capabilities:** The space is highly versatile and established as one of Montclair's top spots for private parties, accommodating large gatherings with its full-rental capacity of up to 130 guests. Private events often include customizable elements like valet parking and bespoke vendor coordination.
• **Exceptional Beverage and Coffee Program:** The restaurant is recognized for offering **Great Coffee** and its talented mixologists craft special drink selections, perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap.
• **Romantic and Trendy Atmosphere:** The ambiance is a major draw, with its cozy, refined interiors and lovely outdoor seating, providing the perfect setting for a romantic evening or a celebratory group dinner.
• **Full-Spectrum Dining Availability:** Offering service from **Breakfast** and **Brunch** through **Late-Night Food**, the restaurant serves diners throughout the day.
• **Diverse Menu Offerings:** Beyond traditional fare, the menu includes **Small Plates**, **Vegetarian Options**, **Organic Dishes**, and classic **Comfort Food**. Main courses feature high-quality proteins like **D'allevamento Di Salmone Champagne** ($26.95) and the **Bistecca Di Gonna Con Gamberi** ($20.95).
• **Acclaimed Dessert Menu:** Customers consistently highlight the experience by noting the restaurant has **Great Dessert**, a perfect way to finish any meal.

Fresco Da Franco welcomes reservations and inquiries for both daily dining and private events.

**Address:** 15 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA

**Phone:** (973) 337-5100 (Note: For parties larger than 6, it is recommended to call extension 3.)

**Event Rental Inquiries:** For details on full rentals, private dining packages, and event planning, an email inquiry to fpj@bar-franco.com is the best way to get started.

When deciding what to order at Fresco Da Franco, the focus should be on the areas where the restaurant truly shines: its handcrafted pasta and its notable appetizers. The quality of the house-made pasta is a signature element that sets this Italian spot apart in New Jersey’s competitive culinary scene.

For starters, one of the best ways to begin your meal is with the appetizer that reviewers frequently rave about: the **Imported Burrata**. While not explicitly listed with a price in the provided menu snippets, its reputation is strong as a must-try. Alternatively, the **Calamari** ($15.95) is a classic choice, and the **Ricotta Vasi** ($10.95) provides a delicious Italian cheese experience. If available, be sure to ask for the recommended **Spinach Spaghetti** (a homemade pasta), which is frequently mentioned by returning customers.

In the **Pasta Fatta Di Casa** section, the **Fettucine Cartoccia** ($27.95) or the complex seafood pasta, **Fregola Frutti Di Mare Fra Diavolo** ($29.95), are excellent choices that showcase the restaurant’s culinary expertise. For a savory meat option, the **Orecchiette Con Salsiccia E Broccoli Rabe** ($21.95) offers a flavorful, comforting classic.

From the main courses, diners looking for a light protein might choose the **Pollo Francese** ($21.95) or the fresh **D’allevamento Di Salmone Champagne** ($26.95). If sharing entrees, keep in mind there is a $9.95 sharing charge.

Finally, make sure to save room for dessert. Given the high praise for their **Great Dessert** and **Great Coffee**, an Italian pastry paired with an espresso is the perfect conclusion to an exquisite meal at this Montclair destination.

Fresco Da Franco

15 Church St, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA