Ombra

- 516 Main St, Boonton, NJ 07005

Ombra, a distinguished Venetian-inspired Salumeria & Bar, offers New Jersey diners a unique and sophisticated Italian experience right in the heart of Boonton. This is far from a typical Italian restaurant; it is a culinary destination that transports guests to the charming wine bars, or 'bacari,' of Venice. The establishment focuses on providing first-class hospitality while celebrating the vibrant, nuanced culinary culture of Italy, particularly the Veneto region.

The name "Ombra" itself holds a special significance, meaning 'shade' or 'shadow' in Italian, and is Venetian slang for a small glass of wine, 'un ombra de vin.' This nod to Venetian tradition sets the tone for the entire experience: an elegant, yet relaxed environment where enjoying artisanal food and fine drink is the main event. Ombra's menu is structured around small, shareable plates, encouraging communal dining and conversation, much like the genuine experience in Italy.

The concept is built on a foundation of quality ingredients and expertly crafted beverages. Guests can indulge in a variety of house-made Salumi (cured meats), imported Formaggi (cheeses), and an array of traditional Venetian small bites known as Cicchetti. This focus on charcuterie and small plates, complemented by a superb Italian wine list—with a special emphasis on Northern Italian varieties—and an exceptional cocktail program, positions Ombra as a top-tier choice for a romantic or upscale night out in Morris County.

Ombra successfully blends an atmosphere that is both Cozy, Romantic, Trendy, and Upscale, making it a perfect spot for everything from a lively gathering among friends to an intimate dinner. The meticulous attention to detail in service and presentation, combined with a menu of delectable small-batch foods and innovative cocktails, truly makes Ombra a hidden gem in the New Jersey dining scene.

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## Location and Accessibility

Ombra is conveniently located at the heart of the bustling downtown area of Boonton, New Jersey, making it a highly accessible and desirable destination for local residents and visitors alike. The restaurant's address is:

516 Main St, Boonton, NJ 07005, USA

As a key establishment on Main Street, Ombra is integrated into Boonton's lively street scene, but what truly distinguishes its location is its commitment to accessibility, ensuring all guests can enjoy the Venetian experience:

• Accessibility Features: Ombra proudly provides Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating. This commitment ensures a comfortable visit for all patrons.
• Parking: Guests have several parking options available in the downtown area, including both Free street parking and Paid street parking options. It is recommended to check local signage upon arrival, though finding a convenient spot is generally manageable.
• Atmosphere: The physical space is stylish and welcoming, featuring large inviting windows, red brick walls, and a warm ambiance. Upon entering, the energetic, yet upscale vibe immediately captivates visitors. The restaurant features both a main Dining Room and a Downstairs Lounge, which can offer slightly different seating environments.
• Planning Your Visit: Given its popularity and cozy setting, Dinner reservations are highly recommended. Ombra accepts reservations for table seating, and it is advised to specify whether you prefer the Dining Room or the Downstairs Lounge when booking. The bar area is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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## Services Offered

Ombra is designed to deliver a sophisticated and complete hospitality experience, focusing on high-quality service and a premium food and beverage program:

• Dine-in Only: The primary service offered is Dine-in, which is central to the full Ombra experience, emphasizing the ambiance, table service, and the quality of the in-house bar.
• Table Service: Provides traditional Table service for a relaxed and unhurried dining experience, allowing guests to savor the small-plate format.
• Bar Onsite: Features a fully stocked, beautiful oak Bar onsite with a skilled mixologist crafting classic and signature cocktails. The bar is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Reservation System: Accepts and recommends Reservations for table seating, particularly for dinner, to ensure prompt seating. Reservations can typically be made online for parties up to six.
• Happy Hour: Offers Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food to allow guests to sample their renowned offerings at special times.
• Special Themed Nights: Enhances the experience with weekly themes, such as Martini & Music Monday (featuring drinks like the Apple Martini and Lemon Drop) and Throwback Thursdays (with classic cocktails like the Paloma and Sazerac).
• Payment Options: Conveniently accepts all major forms of payment, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

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## Features / Highlights

Ombra’s menu is a carefully curated selection that showcases the best of Venetian small-plate dining and a world-class beverage program:

• Cicchetti (Small Bites): The traditional Venetian small plates are a must-try. Highlights include the savory Quail Egg & Anchovies ($3.00), Ricotta & Roasted Peppers, Spicy Shrimp & Lime Aioli, Gorgonzola & Candied Walnuts, and the unique Straciatella, Anchovies & Lemon.
• Artisanal Salumi and Formaggi: Ombra functions as a true Salumeria, offering exquisite selections of cured meats (Finocchio, Speck, Mortadella, Capocollo) and imported cheeses (Jasper Hill Whitney, Piave Vecchio, Brebirousse D'argental). These are often served on beautiful "tagliare," or cutting boards.
• Award-Winning Beverage Program: The restaurant is recognized for its Great cocktails and Great wine list. The bar features signature cocktails like L'amuri Spritz and Firenze Wins Again, alongside classic Italian drinks such as the Aperol Spritz and Classico Negroni. The wine list focuses on Northern Italian wines, reflecting an authentic Venetian selection.
• Antipasti and Salads: Features unique appetizers such as Chilled Cucumber Soup ($16.00), various preparations of Burrata (Burrata $13.00, Truffle Burrata $18.00), and seasonal items like the Strawberry & Kiwi salad ($9.00), praised by patrons for being "amazing."
• Upscale, Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major draw, providing a Romantic and Upscale setting that is perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated evening with Groups.
• Service Excellence: Noted for Fast service, despite the focus on fine dining and an unrushed, European-style experience, ensuring patrons feel attended to and valued.
• Desserts: Concludes the meal with excellence, boasting Great dessert options, often homemade at the owner's sister location, ensuring a high-quality finish. The offerings include traditional sweets and creative, seasonal choices.

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## Contact Information

To plan a visit, make a reservation, or inquire about Ombra's offerings in Boonton, New Jersey, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 516 Main St, Boonton, NJ 07005, USA
• Phone: (201) 367-1196 (Primary Business Line)
• Mobile Phone: +1 201-367-1196

Ombra's hours typically focus on the late afternoon and evening, catering to the dinner and late-night crowds. While hours can vary, the restaurant is often open from late afternoon (around 4:00 PM on weekdays and 2:00 PM on weekends) until late in the evening. It is highly recommended to visit their official website or call ahead to confirm current hours and to secure a reservation, especially for weekend dining, as the restaurant explicitly recommends booking ahead.

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## What is Worth Choosing

For New Jersey residents seeking an authentic, refined, and distinctly different Italian dining experience, Ombra in Boonton is unequivocally worth choosing. It stands out in the crowded local scene by offering a specific regional focus—Venetian—that centers on high-quality Salumi, Formaggi, and the art of the small plate, or Cicchetti.

The foremost reason to choose Ombra is its unmatched hospitality and expertise in food and beverage. As a concept created by a Certified Sommelier, Ombra provides not just a meal, but a comprehensive sensory experience. Patrons consistently rave about the great cocktails and the impeccable service, a testament to the dedication of the staff, including skilled mixologists who craft beautifully designed signature drinks like the L'amuri Spritz.

Another compelling factor is the ambiance and dining style. Ombra provides a refreshing departure from traditional heavy Italian dining. The Romantic, Trendy, and Upscale atmosphere, combined with the focus on Small plates (Cicchetti and Antipasti), encourages sharing, conversation, and a leisurely, European-style approach to the meal. This makes it an ideal spot for celebrating special occasions, a truly intimate date night, or simply enjoying a sophisticated social gathering.

Finally, the restaurant's commitment to quality extends to every aspect, from the freshness of the imported charcuterie to the acclaimed great dessert and an impressive, Northern Italian-focused wine list. For the NJ diner who values quality artisanal food, expertly mixed cocktails, and a gorgeous dining environment with full Table service and Fast service highlights, Ombra offers a unique, high-value proposition that elevates the local Italian dining standard.

Ombra

516 Main St, Boonton, NJ 07005, USA