Sankofa Cafe — Restaurant in Montclair

As a work-from-home-er and resident of Montclair’s South End, I couldn’t be more excited to have a coffee shop in my neighborhood. But is it any good? Short answer — YES! Looking forward to being a regular.

ATMOSPHERE: modern, with warm tones for a relaxing vibe. Choose from high top bar-style seating, table, cushy chair with coffee table, or a semi-private booth. The bathrooms were very nice and clean clean clean!

STAFF: My barista, Victoria, was just as excited as me about Sankofa. They were clearly very knowledgeable about coffee and the process that goes into making a good brew. They explained how heat and humidity can affect the beans, and how they were proud to serve a brew that tastes great no matter the weather.

COFFEE: I got a decaf iced latte, which I’m enjoying as I write this. It’s great! I get lattes/iced lattes often, so I have a lot to compare to. Can’t wait to try more items from the menu — especially the “coffee tonic,” which was described to me as espresso with sparkling water, making it kind of like an americano but more creamy and refreshing.

FOOD: I didn’t try anything but look forward to doing so in the near future. I’m posting a picture of the treats that were offered today.

LOCATION: Although they don’t have outdoor seating, Nishuane park is just a short walk away, and a great place to find a shady bench to sit with a good book and...

Looking for a please to read, relax, think with excellent customer service, superior coffee or tea, and excellent pastries stop by Sankofa Cafe in MontClair. The owner and staff greeted everyone as they came in and made you feel like a family member. There is definitely a communal atmosphere when you enter.

Loved the choices of coffee and teas. The free WiFi and plug-in outlets throughout. Excellent space if you need to get work done and need a break from inside your apartment or house.

I will be back need to try the Hibiscus tea everyone was buying it when I was there. The apple pastry 🥮 was...

Sankofa Cafe is Montclair's best-kept secret that shouldn't be a secret! The food and drinks are always so yummy (grab the banana bread if they haven't sold out yet - you can thank me later) and the space is perfect for working + meeting friends. Every table has outlets, and they're all along the bars too. My old back also appreciates the stools with high backs - it's the only way I can sit on them for long periods of time. The owner Jessica is the best and the barista time is friendly and makes great drinks. Hope Sankofa stays here in Montclair for...