Koreander

- 128 Watchung Ave, Upper Montclair, NJ 07043

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Introduction / Overview

For New Jersey residents seeking a truly authentic and comforting Korean dining experience, Koreander in Upper Montclair is a long-standing, beloved destination. Established since 1993, this local Korean restaurant has been a hidden gem for decades, offering a delightful array of traditional Korean dishes that cater to both seasoned fans of the cuisine and newcomers alike. Koreander prides itself on serving food that tastes like a home-cooked meal, using fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques.

The restaurant's atmosphere strikes a pleasant balance, described as both Casual and Cozy, making it an inviting spot for a variety of occasions—whether you're having a quick Lunch, a relaxing Dinner, or even Solo dining. The setting is particularly welcoming to College students, Families, and Groups from the Montclair community. The primary focus here is the food and the warm hospitality, with customers frequently mentioning the friendly, attentive service. Many patrons feel a genuine sense of warmth from the staff and owner, who often check in to ensure a great dining experience.

Koreander specializes in classic Korean comfort food, which includes popular dishes like Bibimbap (mixed rice bowls), Bulgogi (marinated beef), and Kimchi Jjigae (kimchi stew). They are particularly famous for offering their rice dishes in hot stone bowls, a feature that ensures the food stays piping hot throughout your entire meal—a perfect choice for a chilly New Jersey evening. With generous portions and a diverse menu that includes excellent Vegetarian options, Koreander is a must-visit spot for authentic Asian flavors in Essex County.

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Location and Accessibility

Koreander is conveniently located in the attractive commercial area of Upper Montclair, New Jersey, making it easily accessible for local users and visitors. You can find this traditional Korean eatery at 128 Watchung Ave, Upper Montclair, NJ 07043, USA. The location is nestled within a charming section of the town, offering a pleasant backdrop for a meal out.

Accessibility is a priority at Koreander, as the restaurant features both a Wheelchair accessible entrance and Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring comfortable dining for all guests.

For those driving to the restaurant, parking in Upper Montclair involves a combination of Free street parking and Paid street parking. While street parking can sometimes be challenging in this bustling area, many patrons report being able to find suitable off-street parking, making a visit generally stress-free. Its central spot on Watchung Avenue makes it a simple and well-known destination for authentic Korean cuisine.

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Services Offered

Koreander provides multiple service options to accommodate the diverse preferences and schedules of New Jersey diners, ensuring you can enjoy their traditional cuisine whenever and wherever you choose:

• Dine-in: Guests can enjoy Table service and Seating within the cozy, casual interior. The restaurant Accepts reservations, which is recommended for larger Groups or peak dining times.
• Takeout: Ideal for enjoying homestyle Korean meals at home or on-the-go after a long day of work.
• Delivery: Convenient services are offered for those within the local area, bringing delicious meals right to your door.
• Outdoor Seating: Provides a pleasant option for dining outside when the weather is nice.
• Catering: Available for those planning events or large gatherings, allowing you to share the taste of authentic Korean cooking with a crowd.
• Family-Friendly Features: The restaurant is Good for kids, offering a specialized Kids' menu and High chairs. Kids are often treated to a complimentary Choco Pie dessert.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

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Features / Highlights

Koreander is renowned in the New Jersey food scene for several distinctive highlights that contribute to its lasting popularity:

• Authentic, Homestyle Korean Food: The cuisine is praised for tasting like genuine home-cooked meals, specializing in deep, traditional flavors.
• Hot Stone Bowl Experience: The signature technique of serving Bibimbap and other rice bowls in a hot stone bowl, ensuring the dish stays hot and develops a desirable crispy layer of rice.
• Complimentary Side Dishes (Banchan): Diners are offered free side appetizers while waiting for their food, typically including traditional items like soup, radish, and Kimchi.
• Diverse Menu for All: The menu offers a wide variety of main dishes, from meat-centric options like Bulgogi Dupbap (rice with marinated beef) and Samgyubsal Dupbap (rice with pork belly) to numerous Vegetarian options including a veggie-specific Japchae (sweet potato noodles) and Soondubu Chigae (soft tofu stew).
• Customer Favorites: Dishes like the Kimchi Fried Rice are noted by patrons as the "best" they've ever had, along with the spicy broth and silky soft tofu of the Soondubu Chigae.
• Warm and Attentive Service: The staff is consistently highlighted in reviews for being friendly, engaging, and attentive, creating a "good vibe" and fostering loyalty among customers.
• Long-Standing Local Favorite: Operating since 1993, this long history is a testament to its consistent quality and status as a trustworthy local culinary fixture in Upper Montclair.

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Contact Information

To place a takeout order, book a reservation, or inquire about their catering options, please use the contact information below:

Address: 128 Watchung Ave, Upper Montclair, NJ 07043, USA

Phone: (973) 509-7800

Mobile Phone: +1 973-509-7800

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What is Worth Choosing

For New Jersey diners planning a visit to Koreander, there are several standout items that define the restaurant’s authentic Korean appeal and are highly recommended by local regulars.

The most iconic dish to try is the Bibimbap (mixed rice bowl), particularly when ordered with Pork Belly or Bulgogi and served in the Hot Stone Bowl (Dolsot). This feature is a game-changer; it keeps the dish sizzling hot and creates a delicious, crispy layer of rice at the bottom. Don't forget to customize your sauce, with options including hot pepper sauce, olive oil, sweet soy sauce, and a house special ginseng sauce.

For those who prefer noodle and rice classics, the Kimchi Fried Rice and Ramyen are essential choices. The kimchi fried rice, in particular, has been called the "best" by customers, a high compliment in a region with such diverse Asian dining options. Another must-try is the Soondubu Chigae, a spicy soft tofu stew known for its fiery broth and comforting, silky texture—perfect for a chilly day.

Koreander is also an excellent choice for Vegetarians, with quality options like Veggie Japchae (sweet potato noodles) and various types of Goonmandu dumplings. The complimentary side dishes (Banchan) offered upon arrival, including fresh kimchi, soup, and a potato appetizer, are a delightful addition and part of the traditional Korean dining culture that Koreander faithfully provides.

Ultimately, what makes Koreander worth choosing is its blend of deeply flavorful, authentic Korean cuisine served in a warm, welcoming environment that truly makes you feel at home. It’s a cherished spot in Upper Montclair for both a quick, satisfying Quick bite and a relaxed, flavorful dinner.

Koreander

128 Watchung Ave, Upper Montclair, NJ 07043, USA