With most of our summer vacations and upcoming travel plans being postponed or cancelled (thanks, Covid) you may be feeling the itch for a much needed getaway. Who can blame you? While many of us are juggling work from-home life, virtual learning and navigating the new normal, a quick change of scenery would do us good. Luckily, you don't have to travel far to make that happen. I've rounded up some great local NJ spots that will transport you out of your element and have you feeling like you're on a mini holiday, at least for a few hours.
ALTO ROOFTOP AT THE MC HOTEL, MONTCLAIR, NJ
If you're looking for a chic and scenic night out, look no further than Alto. Located on the 9th floor of The MC Hotel [which opened in July 2019] in the heart of downtown Montclair, the Alto rooftop bar offers a sleek lounge vibe in an open air environment. Enjoy socially distant sips and small bites on this spacious rooftop while you take in incredible skyline views of New York City and sights of downtown Montclair. I suggest going during sunset, ordering a crisp glass of rose and fries (I could eat an entire order myself!). If you're REALLY looking for those vacation vibes, book a stay in one of their 159 rooms. Reservations for Alto are required and can be made on OpenTable.
JOCKEY HOLLOW BAR + KITCHEN, MORRISTOWN, NJ
If you are looking for a real escape from it all, I suggest a quick ride to Morristown to experience Jockey Hollow Bar + Kitchen. This 15,000-square-foot mansion originally built by Theodore Vail of AT&T in 1918, houses 4 unique dining concepts under one roof. Currently, their spacious outdoor patio which seats 75 and indoor raw bar; The Oyster Bar and lively cocktail bar, The Vail Bar are open to guests. I suggest reserving a table on their outdoor patio to take in the gorgeous view of the reflecting pool while the weather is still cooperating and enjoy a variety of items from their raw bar. JHBK is constantly updating their menu with innovative, seasonal specials so you are bound to experience something delicious and new.
FAUBOURG, MONTCLAIR, NJ
It's like a trip to Paris, without the flight! I highly suggest visiting Faubourg, a Montclair based French Brasserie and Bar for an afternoon apéritif, date night or girls brunch. This stunning, modern bi-level, indoor - outdoor restaurant will instantly transport you to the charming streets of France. It's super chic vibe and incredible menu of seasonal options, French fare (ahem: Coq au vin) and hand-crafted cocktails - Faubourg will have you forgetting about that cancelled European vacation this past summer. They offer plenty of indoor and outdoor seating options so you'll feel completely safe and socially distanced when dining.
Plan on visiting any of these local NJ spots? Tag me in your photos and let me know what you think! @lwp_pr