Montclair Restaurant Guide

Nestled into the corner of Walnut and Pine Streets, far from the bustle of downtown Montclair, lay a hidden gem among these culinary hallows. A space where the flavors of Italy, France, and Asia subtly sweep the signature dishes of the chef cuisinier d' artiste.The dream of chef Ariane (part of the restaurant's namesake) and partner/husband/pastry chef Michael Duarte took shape 18 years ago, when the two graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. It has since blossomed into a superbly received dinner spot beloved by neighborhood gourmands and critics alike. From the cornmeal crusted oysters to the warm blueberry cobbler, only the freshest, top quality and often rare ingredients are masterfully combined. The result is a sensory experience to be savored.NEW JERSEY MONTHLY:From the moment you enter this tiny corner bistro, you notice lovely touches, such as buttery homemade croissants instead of bread. From the pristine tables to the servers in black pants and button-down shirts to the gentle hum of a restaurant under control and ready for customers, everything is comme il faut. In good weather, outside tables offer a pleasant dining alternative.NEW JERSEY LIFE:Culinariane's qualifications as a great neighborhood restaurant are many and varied. Foremost among them is a seasonal menu of eight appetizers and eight entrees, each a fine example of eclectic modern American food as executed by an intelligent, imaginative, adept chef.NEW YORK TIMES:It borrows liberally from Asia, the Mediterranean, Italy, France and the Southwest. It holds the occasional surprise, like a small, buttery, faintly honeyed croissant that comes in place of bread.