Allegory Restaurant and Bar

Had higher expectations for this restaurant considering the reviews it already has. Not sure if our bartender was new or not, however, his skillset was questionable...seemed sloppy while making drinks. Not just ours, but everyone's. We sat at the bar and also ordered food, which was also underwhelming. Our deviled eggs came out disheveled and one upside down. Steak was mediocre, we wish we didn't have to ask twice for a steak knife. Not sure we'll be heading back anytime soon.

I had a great experience. This was my second time visiting the restaurant. The first was for lunch, where I had a fantastic meal. This time, I brought the whole family —my in-laws, kids, and a couple of friends —and we had a blast. Service was fantastic and the food was delicious. Truly a gem in Montclair. The atmosphere was great, too, thanks to the restaurant's design and spaciousness. I'm not sure if it's my age, but sitting in cramped spaces with tables and people right next to me and servers bumping into my chair every 30 seconds isn't the experience I'm looking for anymore. Allegory provides you with the complete opposite experience, with comfortable, spacious seating. This is my new go-to spot. Can't wait to check out the dinner option. I'm sure it's going to be awesome.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Had a great experience. This was my second time visiting the restaurant. The first was for lunch, where I had a fantastic meal. This time, I brought the whole family —my in-laws, kids, and a couple of friends —and we had a blast. Service was fantastic and the food was delicious. Truly a gem in Montclair. The atmosphere was great, too, thanks to the restaurant's design and spaciousness. I'm not sure if it's my age, but sitting in cramped spaces with tables and people right next to me and servers bumping into my chair every 30 seconds isn't the experience I'm looking for anymore. Allgegory provides you with the complete opposite experience, with comfortable, spacious seating. This is my new go-to spot. Can't wait to check out the dinner option. I'm sure it's going to be awesome.

My first experience at the Allegory was Awesome ! The food was great. The service was great. Great vibes flowing. The host was AWESOME. I really enjoyed myself at the Girls Just Want to Have Fun Brunch in support of of Breast Cancer. Looking forward to next visit.

I was pleasantly surprised by the standard of service and quality of the food. As a NJ Italian, my standards are high, but Allegory exceeded all expectations. The ambience is very chic. Awesome dinner date spot or place to grab a drink after work.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

This was a Birthday Brunch at 1:30. The brunch times are from 11:00 to 3:00. When the waitress arrives to take our drink orders, I asked for a coffee. The waitress informs me there isn't anymore coffee. So, I'm a bit confused since it's still early and it's during brunch. The waitress saw my confusion and without me saying anything, she informed me she will have a pot made. The waitress returned with our drink orders and than asked for our meal order. I ordered the Croissant French Toast, which is Banana Foster, Cinnamon and Whipped Cream and my side was Applewood Bacon. The other guests placed their meal order. When the food arrives, my order was missing the Banana Foster, which is why I chose this order. So, what I had on my plate was 1 FT Croissant, sliced in half and Whipped Cream on top with some type of crumble decoration around the plate and syrup in a silver cup. When the waitress came to check on us and asked if I wanted another cup of coffee, I said yes. Before she walked away, I informed her my order was missing the Banana Foster. She responds by asking me, “ you didn't get it” I told her there was not 1 Banana or Foster on the plate. As she poured my refill of coffee, she apologized for it and walked away. So, now I sip into the 2nd cup of coffee she just refilled and it was cold. So apparently, the coffee was not placed on a warmer from the time it was made. So after paying $16 for a sliced Croissant with whipped cream and a cold refill of coffee, I was over it. There was no effort made to rectify it and I didn't want to make a fuss of it. My 2 girlfriends had no issues with their drinks and meal, so I was happy for that. I will say that before any plate leaves the kitchen, it needs to be double checked to make sure it matches what's on the menu and what the customer is paying for unless the customer requested a change.

Made the mistake of not signing my own bill and trusting the staff to add the charge to my room at the MC Hotel - upon checkout, when I received the “receipt” there was a 100% tip on a $18 drink and my name forged to the bill. Not a great look, Allegory.

I went to Allegory last Saturday for dinner and I had a great time. CC was my server and he was attentive and respectful. He recommended me the «Smoked Piri Chicken » which was great.
I will definitely come back, thanks again CC !

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

We live nearby and pop in regularly for appetizers, dinner, or to enjoy a drink after. CC, in particular, offers excellent service, the food is consistent, and the atmosphere relaxing.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Went for Lunch. Food is below average.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 1

Service: 5

Used to be a favorite quick bites and drink spot throughout the year- lots of changes recently within the last 2/3 months and now I prefer to go elsewhere in Montclair. The energy is off there. Tried to address with management but they seem confused themselves lol

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 1

The only thing I found good was the draft beer selection. Food average at best. Service horrendous. Was like organized chaos..Don’t go there hungry. Actually I suggest you don’t go at all

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 1

I always come to Allegory’s restaurant and my favorite server is Cisse ! He always delivers 5 Stars service and the food is amazing!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I have been a customer of Allegory since June 2023--shortly after I moved to Montclair. The staff is sooo wonderful and caring. It is my adopted Corner Bar. I love the vibe--good food and atmosphere. I am treated as a first class guest every day. Tee Allegory Rocks! I love all of you!!

Matt Walsh

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I had the best time. It is very clean and welcoming environment. The food and drinks are excellent. My servers Gia and Cisse were wonderful. They took care of my order quickly even though it was very busy.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5