The Spot in Montclair: Reimagining Comfort Classics For Every Diet and Every Age
Set in a suburban area of Montclair, The Spothas successfully transformed Walnut Street thanks to its comforting food, fun atmosphere, and the ability to turn any meal into anything for anybody. What do we mean by that? Well, not only is The Spot, the spot for hanging out with your family, friends, and pretty much everyone on your list, but with a menu that’s packed with comforting Americana items (think Mac ‘n Cheese, burgers, and wings) that can accommodate any diet – it’s pretty much an American (foodie) dream.
However, this dream wasn’t easy work. With no formal restaurant training or guidance, owner and Chef Cassie Fishkin (she’s not a formerly trained chef, but we’re going to refer to her as one anyway because, well… take a look at her food!) began to pursue her love of cooking delicious, satisfying, and healthy meals for others instead of a career in law. After finding the perfect location in Montclair (she’s also a local and has always seen Montclair as a dining destination), Fishkin began construction herself, exposing a brick wall on the interior and making sure those beautiful black and white tiles that are so reminiscent of classic diners remained.
Fiskin’s goal was simple: to create a place where diners could enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks, with whomever they happened to be dining with. Whether it’s the mom who just picked up her kids from school or an executive taking a quick lunch, to the neighborhood couple looking for a cozy date night meal – The Spot meets all of their requirements and much more.
A Dining Experience that Hits The Spot
“Diners are a part of our culture here in New Jersey,” said Owner and Chef Cassie Fishkin who at the age of 21 changed her diet to help manage her Celiac disease diagnosis. “I wanted a place where restrictions didn’t matter, so I began testing countless recipes at home to give the same flavor profiles of all of the classics with a healthier spin.”
Take one look at The Spot’s menu and you’ll quickly understand what we mean. There are plenty of items that well… hit the spot. From Hit The Spot Burger that’s made with a decadent short rib blend and topped with caramelized onions, spinach, mushrooms, and gruyere on a brioche bun to the Roasted Garlic Parmesan wings, salads, and of course, Mac & Cheeses – everything on the menu is locally sourced, prepared fresh in house, and contains no antibiotics, hormones, or GMOs.
“I love when people come up to me and are shocked that they feel so good after eating our Hand Cut Fries, wings, burgers, really anything on our menu. You can eat fun food without getting weighed down,” said Fishkin. “Whether you’re gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, paleo – we’ve got you covered.”
If you haven’t figured out that The Spot is inclusive, then just ask Fishkin how she feels about kids in the restaurant. After seeing her sister struggle with her kids while dining out, whether it’s changing them, dealing with those “looks,” or just trying to keep them occupied, Fishkin wanted to create a restaurant that not only accepted diners with every kind of diet, but also diners of all ages. From a changing table in the restaurant bathroom to a fun kid’s menu, accessible games, and a staff that loves kids, don’t’ find it shocking when an entire family agrees to head to The Spot for dinner.
“I don’t want parents or kids to feel contained or confined when they’re eating out,” said Fishkin. “It’s important for me to welcome families, whether it’s expanding the kid’s menu or providing a mom with take out on her way back home.”
Head to The Spot on Wednesdays for bottomless wings and fries for $14, Tuesdays and Thursdays for live music, any day for a quick bite to go (including Applegate ice cream, infused waters, and Jim’s Organic Coffee), or even have them cater your next event. No matter what the occasion, food is at the center of it, and The Spot is your solution.