The Montclair Girl Team 
In a world of constant change, there’s something comforting about places that remain the same. Montclair is home to several establishments that have stood the test of time. For 30-plus years, these places have been more than just spots to eat, gather, or shop: they are part of the town’s identity. Read on to learn about iconic Montclair spots that have been cherished by locals for 30 years or more.
Restaurants + Eateries
Applegate Farm | 616 Grove Street
Applegate Farm has been a Montclair institution since 1848. It was originally a dairy farm, and the owners began serving ice cream around World War II, when a scoop cost 15 cents. Today, generations of Montclair and New Jersey residents consider a trip to the farm for homemade ice cream a summer tradition.
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Caggiano Liquors | 65 Glenridge Avenue
In 1903, the Caggiano brothers immigrated from Italy to the United States and eventually settled in Montclair, where they opened a butcher shop. Following the end of Prohibition, the family launched Caggiano’s Liquor Store in 1939. The business remained family-owned until it was sold in 2009.
Grove Deli | 121 Grove Street
The Grove Deli is a classic, no-frills deli that has been serving the community for decades. Family-owned and operated since 1974, Grove Deli serves Italian breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and also accepts catering orders.
Grove Liquor Shop | 131 Grove Street
Grove Liquor Shop originally operated out of 133 Grove Street in a space that had previously housed the Oxford Shoppe, Morris Delicatessen, and later Grove Food Shop, which added a liquor department in 1939. By 1940, the business was known as Grove Liquors. In 1941, the storefront moved next door while still retaining the 133 address. Over time, the business shifted to 131 Grove Street, though some say the storefronts were simply renumbered. Ownership changed hands several times over the years, including John and Grace Bianchi, Michael C. Fusco, Edward Smith, and Paul Galasso.
Merit Wine and Liquor | 571 Bloomfield Avenue
As early as 1934, Leon Franzblau operated a shop in the space under the name Leon Franzblau Delicatessen. In 1944, he sold the business to Samuel Blum, who renamed it Merit Wine and Liquor. Samuel, an Austrian immigrant, lived on Seymour Street with his wife Jennie and their children. Within a few years, his son-in-law, Edgar Schlossberg, joined him in running the business. Since the 1960s, the shop has passed through several owners while continuing to remain a longtime local fixture.
Montclair Diner | 613 Valley Road
Montclair Diner’s history stretches back to 1923. Formerly known as Louvis, it continues to be a welcoming spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The diner has smaller booths with red and blue seating, plus a bar where diners can sit for a meal or beverage. It’s a simple yet welcoming spot in Montclair.
Mr. Dino’s | 119 Watchung Road
Since 1981, Mr. Dino’s has been the place to go for a slice in Montclair. It holds the title of the oldest pizzeria in town and remains a family-run business. Its Grandma Pie is famous and a favorite among Montclair locals.
Nicolo’s Bakery | 6 Baldwin Street
Nicolo’s is a family-owned and operated bakery serving fresh-baked bread and pastries. It’s been a Montclair go-to since 1967. The Zecchino family still owns and operates the bakery today, with generations of the family working together under one roof. The bakery serves classic Italian food made to go or sold wholesale.
Raymond’s | 28 Church Street
What started as a tiny luncheonette in 1989 has grown into a beloved Montclair eatery. Raymond’s captures the spirit of a classic diner with its white tile and red banquettes. It’s a go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, known for its friendly atmosphere and crowd-favorite food.
Romany Liquor Shop | 227 Glenridge Avenue
Romany Liquor Shop began operating in Montclair as early as 1933. Initially known as the Little Romany Shop and later shortened to Romany Shop, it first opened at 428 Bloomfield Avenue before eventually becoming Romany Liquor Shop. The original owner, Benjamin Lentz, was born in Austria-Hungary and lived in Montclair with his wife Ada on Forest Avenue. In 1944, he transferred the business to Harry A. Harrison and Albert Krupnick, though he repurchased it the following year in 1945. Benjamin later sold the shop sometime after 1950, after which it changed hands several times. Between 1964 and 1966, the business relocated to its current address.
South End Liquors | 310 Orange Road
The story of South End Liquors likely began around 1926 at 311 Orange Road, across the street from its current location. Morris Kantor, the shop’s original owner, was born in Russia. Before Morris opened his shop, an Atlantic and Pacific Store (aka A&P) operated out of it. Morris operated the space as South End Delicatessen until he sold the business in 1945 to Herman Rosner and Eddie Greenwald as South End Liquors and Delicatessen. Herman and Eddie operated out of 310 Orange Road. After Herman left, Leo Bromley stepped in and became a co-owner alongside Eddie. Leo was previously the president and executive director of the New Jersey Liquors Association. After Eddie retired, Leo was the sole president of the store until he passed away in 2001. By 2013, the business was owned by Jitendra Shah, and by 2017, it was owned by Viral Patel. In 2020, South End Liquors sold a lucky customer a locker ticket worth $140,000.
Tierney’s Tavern | 136 Valley Road
Tierney’s has been pouring pints since 1934. It’s still owned and operated by the Tierney family. Tierney’s is a true neighborhood pub: it has live music, football Sundays, and even merchandise. It’s truly a place where everyone knows your name and stories of the past echo through the walls.
Shops + Stores
Grove Pharmacy | 123 Grove Street
Grove Pharmacy is a reminder of a time when your pharmacist knew you by name. It’s been a trusted part of the community for 100 years, and it continues to be a vital local business.
Jerry’s Antiques and Estates | 229 Glenridge Avenue
Jerry’s Antiques and Estates has been a destination for antique lovers for 30 years. The shop offers a glimpse into the past and plenty of opportunities to bring a beloved piece home.
Montclair Book Center | 221 Glenridge Avenue
Montclair Book Center has been a cornerstone of Montclair since 1984. It is the largest independent bookstore in Montclair. Its shelves provide hours of browsing and relaxation. Generations of Montclair readers have found some of their favorite books here.
Montclair Flowers and Gifts | 1 Lackawanna Plaza, Suite 7
Montclair Flowers and Gifts has been part of countless special events and everyday moments since its opening in 1972. The shop provides floral arrangements and gifts to the community.
Watchung Booksellers | 54 Fairfield Street
Since its opening in 1991, Watchung Booksellers has been a hub for the literary community in Montclair. The store has a carefully curated book selection as well as a dedicated children’s section. It’s a place where Montclair readers of all ages can read, browse, and hear stories.
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Community Hubs + Local Institutions
Cameron Animal Hospital | 417 Bloomfield Avenue
Cameron Animal Hospital has been looking after Montclair’s pets since 1936. As the first small animal hospital in New Jersey, it has a long history of serving the community’s furry, feathered, and scaly residents.
Montclair Art Museum | 3 South Mountain Avenue
A cultural cornerstone since 1914, the Montclair Art Museum was a pioneer for its dedication to American and Native American art. Its collections and exhibits have enriched the lives of Montclair residents for over a century.
The Claridge | 486 Bloomfield Avenue
This historic movie theater has been a beacon for film lovers since it first opened its doors in 1922. It evolved from a single-screen theater to six screens, hosting blockbusters and indie films. The Claridge also hosts the Montclair Film Festival every fall. It’s a place where the magic of the movies truly comes to life.
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