Montclair is ushering in a new era of hospitality. The MC Hotel is now open, and is the first full-service hotel in the city in over 80 years. The hotel serves as a local gathering point, on the corner of Bloomfield Ave and Orange Road; just one block from the Montclair Art Museum and a short walk to the town’s dining, shopping, and entertainment scene.
“We aim to be a home away from home for both tourists and locals,” says Oscar Fontana Roos. general manager of The MC Hotel. Taking inspiration from the town itself, the hotel features many forms of art throughout each space.
More from Best of NJ
A Home for Local Art
“When looking at Montclair as a community, art is such a calling card of the town,” says Fontana Roos. “From the artistic roots of the town to the artists and makers who choose to call Montclair home.”
Hotel common spaces resemble an art gallery, showcasing the hotel’s local and national art collection. In addition, décor throughout the hotel boast an eclectic style reflective of Montclair’s cultural mix. For instance, the lobby features a 30-foot black-and-white mural of local flora and fauna; from illustrators Ruben and Isabelle Toledo. But that’s not all, as each elevator landing features 6×6′ paintings of Montclair’s surroundings; all done in the style of ancient Indian miniatures by Montclair artist Siona Benjamin. The second floor meeting spaces offer a series of postcard art by Studio Montclair.
Even the music in the common spaces of The MC Hotel is a mix of styles and sounds. In the lounge and bar areas, you’ll hear tunes ranging from jazz fusion to house. Meanwhile, the lobby plays acoustic sounds and local jazz. Finally, the rooftop bar and lounge, Alto, offers diverse, upbeat music for all ages.
The hotel is also working with local acts to offer live music. Specifically, The MC Hotel is teaming with The Wellmont Theater to bring acts over for bonus concerts or surprise sets.
As for other events, the hotel has a rotating calendar of wellness, music, art, and food pop-ups. Be on the lookout for activities such as wine tastings, art tours, and more.
Dining Options at The MC Hotel
The hotel is home to Allegory, an all-day, full-service eatery featuring a New American menu with global influence. The 95-seat spot puts a focus on seasonality, featuring fresh produce and ingredients from local farms. “We aim to bring the Montclair community into the hotel and showcase their talents to our guests,” says Fontana Roos.
Another option is The Market, a casual spot to enjoy homemade wraps, salads, sandwiches, and drinks; and then there are the baked goods from the town’s Le French Dad Bakery. The Market coffee counter houses a Slayer Espresso Machine and brews Great Notch Coffee; a Newark brand that actually made a special coffee blend just for the hotel.
Alto, a 3,600-square foot space on the ninth floor, seats 106 at its indoor/outdoor rooftop bar and lounge. This spot serves small bites and handcrafted cocktails, as well as brunch on weekends. Alto’s outdoor rotunda houses a fire pit with lounge seating, overlooking the New York City skyline in the distance.
Rooms
The hotel boasts 159 rooms that feel like visiting a retreat, featuring warm tones and art prints. Of the 18 total suite types, the standout is the one-bedroom suites built into the hotel’s rotunda. They have curved glass exterior walls and offer views of the hills and parks in Montclair.
Guest rooms showcase prints by local artists above the beds. Bath and body products come from local handmade purveyor DollyMoo, as well as pressed juices from local partner Juice Basin. Of course, amenities include Wi-Fi access and 24-hour access to the fitness center. The hotel is also dog-friendly, welcoming pups under 50 pounds (for a fee).
Visit the MC Hotel at 690 Bloomfield Ave. To learn more, check out their website or you can give them a call.
All Images: © Neil Grabowsky / Through The Lens Studios
