Think of it as a brasserie that focuses on desserts: Vanillamore Dessert Kitchen, recently opened at 349 Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair, serves sweets and savory dishes at lunch and dinner in a casually sophisticated setting that includes communal seating and eating options ranging from “charcuterie” platters of chocolate or vanilla to small plates to dessert “flights.”
The concept comes courtesy of pastry chef-owner Risa Magid Boyer, who did time in eateries in New York and the Garden State before opening Vanillamore. The BYO is open daily, except Mondays. 973-707-5373; vanillamore.com.
Also open:
Rodeo Grill, 350 Main Street in Orange. Portuguese, BYO. 862-233-6521.
Moe’s Southwest Grill, 326 Route 18 in East Brunswick. Another in a chain from an Atlanta-based franchise, this fast-casual lunch-and-dinner spot has several branches so far in NJ, including North Brunswick, Marlboro, Somerset and Piscataway. 732-855-6779;moes.com.
Tilted Kilt Pub and Eatery, 61 Route 1 South in Metuchen. This Irish sports bar is sprouting throughout the Garden State. Other outlets are located in Wayne, Sicklerville and Bloomfield. 732-379-4808; tiltedkilt.com.
Coming soon:
Lez Bistro, 56 West Palisade Avenue in Englewood. Asian cuisine. Will serve lunch and dinner in the former home of Carma’s Kitchen. BYO. 201-431-9093.