Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen

- 398 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042

Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen in Montclair, New Jersey, is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a dynamic, music-themed destination that seamlessly blends a sophisticated cocktail program with an elevated New American menu. Located right next to the historic Wellmont Theater, this establishment has quickly become a cornerstone of Montclair’s vibrant social scene, drawing in locals and concert-goers alike. For anyone in the New Jersey area looking for a top-tier bar experience with delicious, inventive food and a lively atmosphere, Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen is a must-visit spot.

The bar’s name itself pays homage to the location's past, as a “Pharmacie soda shop” once flanked the original entrance of The Wellmont Theater. This vintage nod translates into a beautiful, inviting space that features exposed brick, classic black-and-white tile, marble accents, and wrought iron detailing. With bars on two levels, the venue maintains a convivial, upscale pub ambiance—casual enough for an easy weeknight visit but trendy enough for a special evening out.

What sets Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen apart is its commitment to both exceptional drinks and creative cuisine. The menu is an adventure in elevated bar fare, moving beyond typical pub grub with thoughtfully executed and shareable plates. It’s a place where you can enjoy world-class cocktails alongside dishes that are as inventive as they are comforting. Whether you're heading to a show at the Wellmont or simply seeking a sophisticated night out in Essex County, Pharmacie offers an immersive experience guaranteed to satisfy.

Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen is strategically located in the heart of downtown Montclair, making it highly accessible for residents of North Jersey and beyond. It serves as an essential hub for nightlife, especially given its direct proximity to The Wellmont Theater.

The official address for the establishment is:

398 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA

Being on Bloomfield Avenue, the bar is situated in a bustling, commercial area with numerous other shops and eateries nearby, contributing to its lively atmosphere. For those driving, paid street parking is typically available in the surrounding area. Furthermore, the bar’s commitment to accessibility is evident with a wheelchair-accessible restroom.

The location makes it the ultimate pre-show destination. As one customer mentioned, it is a “great vibe” for “pre-show drinks” since it is “right next to The Wellmont.” Its role as the adjoining bar and kitchen to the major concert venue means you can grab a signature cocktail and an elevated bite to eat without the stress of a long journey before a show.

Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen is a versatile venue that offers a comprehensive range of services, catering to a diverse clientele from those grabbing a quick solo drink to groups celebrating a private event.

Services Offered:

• Bar Service: Featuring a full bar specializing in handcrafted classic and modern cocktails, hard liquor, wine, and an excellent selection of craft beers.
• Dining Service: Providing New American bar fare with table service and dining options available. Menu items often include inventive "Entrees" like Stracciatella, Chips N' Dip, and Crispy Cauliflower, along with comfort sides and homemade desserts.
• Catering and Private Events: The venue, with bars on two levels, is ideal for hosting special events, ranging from small private parties to larger corporate celebrations and bachelorette parties.
• Themed Culinary Pop-Ups: The bar hosts unique themed culinary events, such as the monthly 'Bites + Beats' pop-ups featuring a chef-curated menu, sometimes paired with special tastings like a Scotch and cigar affair.
• Nightlife and Entertainment: Operating as a cocktail bar, lounge, and nightclub, the venue offers a lively atmosphere, occasionally featuring live music or curated music-themed nights.
• Outdoor Seating: Providing patrons with the option to enjoy their food and drinks outside.
• Accessibility and Amenities: Features like gender-neutral restrooms, a standard restroom, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom ensure comfort and inclusivity for all guests.
• Flexible Dining Policies: The establishment permits outside food, and dogs are allowed on the premises.

The bar’s dedication to quality, atmosphere, and a unique concept allows it to stand out in the competitive North Jersey market.

Key Features and Highlights:

• Exceptional Craft Cocktail Program: The bar is celebrated for its specialty and signature cocktails, which often have memorable, music-inspired names. Drinks are meticulously crafted, with house-made ingredients like shrubs and bitters, and they are noted for the use of clear ice cubes, signaling attention to detail.
• Elevated Bar Food: The kitchen is known for “flipping the meaning of bar food on its head” with elevated New American cuisine. Dishes are often creatively enhanced, like Buffalo chicken wings that are sous vide for tenderness or high-end takes on bar snacks such as 'Chips N' Dip' with trout roe or tuna tartare nachos.
• Pre-Show Headquarters: Its position as the adjoining bar to the Wellmont Theater makes it the perfect and most convenient spot for pre-show cocktails, dinner, or dessert. They lean into this role with events like 'Wellmont Wednesdays' featuring concert screenings and ticket giveaways.
• Welcoming and Inclusive Atmosphere: The venue is described as having a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. It is known to be welcoming to all groups, including being LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space.
• Fast and Friendly Service: Customers consistently praise the “friendly bartenders” and the “attentive service,” noting the fast service even during busy hours.
• Focus on Shareable Plates: The menu is designed for sharing and conversation, with a philosophy that “food doesn't need to be categorized,” encouraging patrons to try multiple small plates.

If you are planning a visit to this Montclair hotspot, here is the essential contact and location information you will need.

Contact Information:

• Address: 398 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA
• Phone: (973) 968-5303

For New Jersey locals seeking an engaging and high-quality nightlife experience, Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen is a choice that consistently delivers. The experience is meticulously crafted, from the initial greeting to the final sip of a perfectly balanced cocktail.

The main draw is the high caliber of the cocktail menu. You won't find generic, watered-down drinks here. The focus is on unique, thoughtfully prepared concoctions using high-quality spirits and house-made ingredients. Whether you prefer a tropical rum-based drink like the Chief Lapu-Lapu or a vibrant, balanced creation like the Detox, the bar offers a sophisticated drinking experience that is a step above most local establishments. The selection is complemented by a great variety of craft beers, catering to every palate.

In terms of food, the 'bar-first feel' is beautifully contrasted by the quality of the cuisine. The dishes are designed to be complex and fun, transforming bar snacks into true culinary talking points. The emphasis on shared plates creates a communal and interactive dining experience, making it an excellent choice for groups of friends or a date night. Reviews often highlight the unexpected quality of the food, assuring that even hungry guests will find satisfying and inventive options.

What is truly worth choosing, however, is the complete experience. The vintage-inspired décor, the two-level bar, and the fact that the staff, including management, are known to be extremely friendly and welcoming, create an ambiance that is both chic and comfortable. As one satisfied customer noted, the welcoming staff and great vibe make it a place you would "highly recommend." It’s an ideal location for solo diners looking for a cozy spot, or for groups looking to start or end their night with flair. Its role as the premier spot for pre-show drinks before a Wellmont Theater event is an undeniable convenience and a major selling point. Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen is an integral part of the Montclair social fabric, offering a memorable fusion of music, fine drinks, and elevated dining in the heart of New Jersey.

Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen

398 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA