The Year in Food 2014

2014 was another fast-paced year for the Montclair area restaurant scene.

Here, we take a look back at the biggest openings, closings and notable food news of 2014:

Villalobos opened in Montclair offering killer tacos and authentic Mexican cuisine.

Montclair got its first vegan restaurant with Mundo Vegan on Church Street.

Fricasseè French Bistro opened in the space of former Epernay. Same great chef, really good food.

Bloomfield got a new coffee shop — Blend.

Cha Ma Gu Dao tea house returned to Montclair.

Heritage House opened in the former J&K Steakhouse spot.

The Little Daisy Bake Shop moved to a bigger space on Valley Road offering even more cakes, cookies, and whoopie pies.

Anderson 1949, which originated in Brooklyn, opened a Montclair restaurant offering locals Chef Sherry Grimes “From scratch and delicious” food.

Noches De Colombia opens in Montclair offering delicious and authentic Colombian cuisine.

Stuffed Burger opened in the former Plato Cubano spot.

Vital opens offering Caribbean cuisine, organic and vegan Food in the former HLS Juice Bar & Grill spot.

Tiny Elephant opens a great cafe next door to Watchung Booksellers.

Ani Ramen opens in Montclair offering comforting ramen and amazing pork buns.

Xocolatz opens in Montclair (but closes soon after).

Fogo opens in Montclair (but closes soon after).

Laboratorio Kitchen opened in Montclair, then closed, and reopened wiht a new chef and menu.

77 Walnut Street opened in the former Adara space in Montclair offering a casual elegant menu with Mediterranean influences.

Bu-Ba-Q’s-BBQ & Charbroil Restaurant opened in the space formerly occupied by Sweet Potato & Pecan in Montclair.

De Novo European Pub, owned by Demetri Malki, opened in the former 12 West space.

El Matador Mexican Deli & Restaurant opened in Bloomfield offering authentic Poblano Cuisine.

Xocolatz closes in Montclair.

12 West closes it’s restaurant and bar after less than a year in business.

Chef Zod announces plans to close Resturant Blu in Montclair.

Elevation Burger closes for the second time.

CulinAraine closes its Montclair restaurant to open Ariane Kitchen & Bar in Verona.

Fogo opens in Montclair (but closes soon after).

Rachel Crampsey, baker and owner of Montclair brad Company won The Cooking Channel’s Donut Showdown.

Holsten’s celebrate 75 years.

The Montclair Food & Wine Festival held its 2nd annual festival for food lovers.

Bloomfield’s Taqueria Autentica gets some love from Munchmobile.

Star Tavern Makes a 101 Best Pizzas in America List

What will you miss? What new restaurants do you love? Tell us in comments.