Cuban Petes   

428 Bloomfield Ave
Montclair, NJ 07042
973-746-1100

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This new concept has already become the most-talked-about opening in Montclair in quite the while, for reasons both pro and con. First off, we'll say this: it's an awfully handsome space, with solid wooden family-style tables in tall front windows and a more intimate bar area in back. Dcor runs to big murals. There's also a courtyard out back, and the holy grail of Montclair dining: free parking. One key gimmick here that hits you right off the bat is the sangria menu. It holds a dozen different variations, from an almost cloyingly sweet version of the classic red-plus-fruit standard, to far more adventurous (mojito and banana) takes. Among the delightful tapas and appetizers are fried bits of goat cheese, empanadas, stuffed peppers, little cuts of pork belly, some addictively crunchy chicken 'lollipops' and sassy garlic shrimp. Entrees are less daring, but do range from Latin (pork) to surprising Caribbean items (oxtail, snapper). Here's hoping the service kinks get worked out, fast.