Located in Montclair, this cozy European-inspired eatery specializes in health-conscious meat and vegan dishes.
The food here is as flavorful as they come, incorporating global inspiration into local favorites while remaining true to their roots (John’s Brooklyn melting pot and Christina’s Portuguese heritage). Owners John and Christina Salierno don’t have any formal culinary training but a passion for putting together innovative, high-quality meals that are both delicious and inspiring.
Menu Metrics
The ol’ bacon, egg and cheese breakfast is still a Montclair institution; here it gets updated to include a couple of clever mashups like coconut grits with shredded chorizo and toasted coconut. The brunch menu also features Hong Kong waffles, with a custard base and tapioca flour for a denser texture that’s both comforting and decadent.
Decor
The ambiance here is just as impressive as the meals; Christina and John renovated the space themselves, using salvaged bricks from Brooklyn and barn wood plants from Pennsylvania to create an aesthetically pleasing and thoughtfully designed interior. The centerpiece is a cluster of blue-and-white tiles from Sintra, Portugal that are crafted to mimic the design of an ancient temple.
Best of all, this cafe is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner six days a week. It’s a popular choice for locals looking to grab a bite before the day’s work.
Drinks and cocktails
If you’re in the mood for a little sparkle, try their Mimosa, champagne or wine. You can also order a variety of creative liqueurs and other cocktails, including the Nutella latte or matcha.
Getting There
The storefront is tiny, but the cozy rustic interior is packed with small wooden tables, antiques and an open kitchen run by owners John and Christina Salierno. They’re credited with turning breakfast and brunch staples into tasty concoctions that are not only flavorful but a bit more special than your usual egg sandwich.
During the winter, they’re also known for their braised duck tacos and French sausages.
Restaurants in Montclair that are most likely to make you happy
If you’re on the hunt for a place to dine in Montclair with a touch of class and an eye for the whizzes, Le Salbuen Cafe is the place for you. This European-inspired restaurant will woo you with its clever and fun eats and drinks, and it won’t break the bank.
