Residents of Montclair looking for a bar with a New York City vibe can now head to Bar Franco. The cocktail lounge boasts a door person and velvet rope to maintain an air of exclusivity. Chandeliers and velvet chairs give the space a Prohibition era feel and evoke an old Hollywood experience.
Bar Franco is an expansion of Owner Franco Porporino Jr.’s presence in Montclair. He also owns Fresco Da Franco, an Italian restaurant which has been open next door since 2012.
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An Exclusive Experience
Franco describes the space as “elegant, upscale and very Italian.” The lounge can seat 26 guests indoors, while a seasonal sidewalk patio can seat an additional 20. Meanwhile, a sold-out private and invitation-only membership speakeasy, La Tana, is found below the bar.
Franco describes the lounge as a bespoke apertivo bar. It has a unique, upscale, and old-school vibe. The goal is to offer patrons a taste of modern Italy through their carefully curated, handcrafted cocktails.
Decadent Drinks & Desserts
Popular menu items include the Lu Cafe Martini, the Bar Franco version of an espresso martini. Another fan favorite is the Sambuchino, a tequila-infused cocktail with shaved jalapeño ice. Franco recommends the Mamma Mia – with bourbon, bitter reduction, and chocolate smoke – or their bellini, made using a secret recipe. However, his favorite drink is the Bar Franco Spritz, a combination of Tris Rose, Ciliegio Marasco, and grapefruit juice.
Besides drinks, the lounge serves a signature La Bomba dessert. This dessert tops a diamond-shaped vanilla cookie with chocolate mousse, vanilla cream, and a 24-karat gold leaf. The cream uses six different vanillas to give it a distinct flavor. Bar Franco serves La Bomba with a 24-karat diamond-encrusted fork that patrons can take home as a keepsake. This $1,000 dessert comes courtesy of Jayce Baudry, who owns the pastry shop next door. Other dessert options include crème brulee, profiteroles, and tiramisu.
Visit Bar Franco at 15 Church St in Montclair. Look for the business online to learn more.
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Bar Franco FAQs
No, they do not accept reservations.
Yes, there are gluten-free options.
Yes, Bar Franco offers vegetarian options.
Takeout is not available for this business.
They do not offer delivery.
Yes, they serve handcrafted cocktails.
No, they do not have a kids’ menu.
All Photos: © Bar Franco
