Welcome! What made you choose Boonton?
I grew up in Mountain Lakes, so this was sort of a “homecoming” venture! And Main Street has the perfect energy to match our lively wine bar concept.
What has been the biggest surprise since you opened?
The overwhelming support of the community! We are so grateful to have become a place where our neighbors can meet, share, & enjoy together!
What is the most popular menu item?
Our Cicchetti, which are essentially Venice’s take on “tapas.” Ours are small bites of crostini topped with all sorts of various, seasonal ingredients, such as Romesco & Shrimp, Mortadella & Pimento Cheese, or my favorite, Quail Egg & Anchovy.
Do you have a background in the food industry? What inspired the menuand choices?
I have 2 restaurants in Hoboken—Sorellina (opened in 2015) and Sirenetta (opened in 2020). I am also a Certified Sommelier with a culinary degree. Ombra is all Venetian inspired through my many travels to Italy over the years. There is something magnetic about the vibrant Venetian culture, how the tiny wine bars lining the canals come to life with people pouring onto the narrow sidewalks enjoying “un’ombra de vin” (small glass of wine) and cicchetti during aperitivo (happy hour). Since we do not have a full kitchen in the space, it seemed like the perfect concept to fulfill this vision!
Where do you see Ombra in three years?
Our Hospitality Group is continuing to grow! Later this year I will be opening a full service restaurant in Boonton Township, and with that growth I hope Ombra continues to be the neighborhood wine bar guests can frequent after work, when gathering with friends on the weekend, or just for a daily fulfillment of Italian life!
Ombra Salumeria & Bar
516 Main St, Boonton, NJ
201-367-1196
www.ombraboonton.com
