I stopped here for an early dinner on my way home. The staff were super welcoming and friendly. I got a table outside and enjoyed the gathering of people here and there on church street. I felt like I was in Italy. The drink specials are crafted by a talented mixologist, and the pasta is made fresh. If they have the spinach spaghetti on the menu, please get it. I will definitely be back.
Overview
When you're craving a delightful blend of Italian cuisine with a personal touch, Fresco Da Franco in Montclair, New Jersey, is the place to be. Nestled at 15 Church St, this charming spot offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for everything from a casual dinner to a special celebration. It's the kind of restaurant that makes you feel right at home, while also providing an elevated dining experience with each dish they serve.
The moment you step inside Fresco Da Franco, you're greeted by an inviting, cozy vibe that’s reminiscent of a classic Italian trattoria. The rustic decor, combined with the rich aromas of simmering sauces and fresh bread, sets the stage for a memorable meal. Whether you’re dining in for a date night or a family dinner, the ambiance is both relaxed and elegant, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
The menu at Fresco Da Franco is a celebration of Italian culinary traditions, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. One of the standout features of their offerings is the variety of dishes that are crafted with care, each with its unique twist. From their signature pasta dishes, such as homemade lasagna and pappardelle with wild boar ragu, to the perfectly seasoned veal and seafood options, every bite is bursting with flavor.
A true gem on their menu is the Fresco Da Franco pizza. Unlike any typical pizza, the crust is thin, crisp, and perfectly charred, while the toppings are carefully selected to create a harmonious balance of flavors. The Margherita pizza, with its fresh mozzarella and basil, is a fan favorite. It’s simple yet refined, letting the quality of the ingredients shine through.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, their gnocchi with brown butter and sage is a must-try. Soft, pillowy gnocchi, combined with the rich and nutty flavor of brown butter, makes for a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated. For a lighter option, the fresh salads, like the arugula and pear salad, offer a crisp, refreshing contrast to the heartier fare.
Another highlight of Fresco Da Franco is their wine list, which features a curated selection of Italian wines that perfectly complement their menu. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just looking for a good pairing, the staff is always happy to offer recommendations. The house-made sangria is also a popular choice, offering a refreshing option for those who prefer something fruitier.
Service at Fresco Da Franco is second to none. The staff here is friendly, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure your dining experience is memorable. From recommending wine pairings to answering any questions about the menu, the team is knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about the food they serve. They make every guest feel valued and ensure that everyone leaves with a smile on their face.
One of the great things about Fresco Da Franco is that it appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. The menu features plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, so there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer plant-based dishes, you’ll find a variety of choices that are both delicious and satisfying.
What sets Fresco Da Franco apart from other Italian restaurants is its commitment to delivering authentic flavors while maintaining a personalized touch. Each dish is made with care and attention to detail, reflecting the passion of the chef and the dedication to providing a memorable dining experience. The restaurant doesn’t just serve food-it serves a piece of Italy, right in the heart of Montclair.
In addition to the regular menu, Fresco Da Franco offers a variety of specials that change frequently, allowing you to explore new flavors with every visit. From seasonal dishes to limited-time creations, these specials are always worth checking out, adding an element of excitement and surprise to the dining experience.
If you haven’t had the chance to visit Fresco Da Franco, it’s definitely a must-try for anyone in the area. Whether you're a local or just passing through, it offers a dining experience that feels both familiar and extraordinary. The combination of delicious food, great service, and inviting ambiance ensures that every visit is a special one.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ No-contact delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Great coffee âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great wine list âś“ Live musicPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Happy-hour drinks âś“ Happy-hour food âś“ Late-night food âś“ Organic dishes âś“ Private dining room âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Breakfast âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ Toilet âś“ Wi-Fi âś“ Wi-FiAtmosphere
âś“ Cosy âś“ Romantic âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Transgender safe spacePlanning
âś“ Brunch reservations recommended âś“ Lunch reservations recommended âś“ Reservations required âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ High chairsParking
âś“ Paid parking lot âś“ Parking âś“ Valet parkingPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 897 reviews
Had my sons first birthday in the private dining section of the restaurant. Kelly, the private events coordinator, was absolutely incredible. From helping choose the best menu for my guests to brining it all together with beautiful decorations. She really went above and beyond!! Would absolutely recommend a private dining event at Fresco da Franco with Kelly by your side :). Wait staff were also great! Carla helped my grandmother get settled in her seat and made sure she had everything she needed! Lastly food was delicious and no one left hungry! Thank you Fresco da Franco, Kelly, and Staff!
Hosted my parent’s 70th combined surprise birthday party here, and it was an event to remember. The restaurant itself has such a beautiful aesthetic and gives off great vibes. We did a full rental, which allowed us full access to the place. Kelly, the event coordinator was so helpful from start to finish. She helped with all the details from the menu, to the DJ, to the beautiful decor! I cannot say enough good things about her.. she thoroughly explained the process, answered any and all questions at any time of the day, and was devoted to making sure my parent’s party was perfect. Thanks to Kelly, there were no surprises and we received so many compliments from guests on the food, atmosphere, and overall vibe of the day.
We recently hosted a baby shower at this restaurant, and everything exceeded our expectations. Our guests loved the food, and the staff made sure everyone felt well cared for throughout the celebration. The event coordinator, Kelly, was exceptional. She listened closely to my wife’s vision and went above and beyond to bring every detail to life, ensuring the day turned out exactly as we’d hoped. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect experience, and Kelly made it happen.
We stopped in for a lovely lunch and it was exceptional from start to finish. We began with the burrata appetizer—simple yet perfectly fresh. For mains, the branzino was beautifully prepared and flavorful, and the mushroom ravioli may have been the best I’ve ever had: al dente pasta with a filling that was rich and perfectly balanced. The service was impeccable—each dish was timed just right, and every server spoke knowledgeably about the menu, down to the smallest detail. We enjoyed dining outdoors with soft jazz playing in the background, which set the perfect atmosphere. For dessert, don’t miss the tiramisu. It’s the sweetest ending to an already memorable meal.
We celebrated our 5-year anniversary here, and it couldn’t have been more special! My boyfriend had noted the occasion on the reservation, and the restaurant reached out to him ahead of time to see if we’d like our table decorated. I had no idea, so arriving to roses at the table was such a thoughtful surprise. The new manager was incredibly kind and attentive—he went above and beyond to make sure we had the best time. The food was amazing as always, and being back at the place where we had our first date made it even more meaningful. Truly a memorable night. We’ll always treasure it!
First time there was Wednesday, October 15 it was girls night out and we decided to try somewhere new our appetizer was Burrata, my meal was RISOTTO FIORI DI ZUCCA. I also ordered a red sangria. I could not believe how delicious everything was so I decided to go there with my husband Saturday night, October 18 just to see if they were just as good on the weekend. I ordered the same meal. RISOTTO FIORI DI ZUCCA I switched it up and had the fiord di zucca For an appetizer and like I said, I have the same meal these zucchini risotto. My husband had the Ragu lamb and pasta. Needless to say, this is my new favorite place. Everything again was on point. I would highly recommend this place to anybody who wants good authentic Italian food.
came here on christmas day to celebrate the holiday as well as a birthday. the food was absolutely amazing, the live music added to the perfect mood and decorations, and our waitress tatianna provided the best care and service to our entire party. we cannot thank you all enough for the attention to detail and making our celebration one we will never forget!