Consigliere — Restaurant in Newark

I just want to start by saying ... this review is very much personal. I have been coming to this establishment from the opening of the doors ! I live above this establishment, it's black owned and I'm a bartender myself. So supporting " a black own business " that's me . I got great service tonight , as I always do . A youn lady came in the building and she was trying to get the bartender attention . So she asked if I could help her . All I said was sweetheart. , 🗣️ exsuceme , exsume , honey can you help her . The bartender turned around and yelled🗣️when I get ready. At that moment another bartender with dreads came out . I said to the guest , try him he is nice . So he proceeded to make the drink , as he is making the drink. The bartender with the attitude walks up , says she is hnot a dog and . bunch of nothing . I'm like " okay mam " I didn't treat you as such . She is now Telling " her version " of what happened . To the manager and bartenders . Bartender walks over tells me I have to pay and go . Not even ask me my side .... ATP I'm appalled . I'm a regular , and I never even ever been a problem . So the girl next to me says she is always like that but she is sleeping with the manager . I'm like what does that have to do with me ? The bartender with the dreads comes back . Throws my drink out and says you have to pay . Mind you my phone is behind the bar charging. So I ask for my phone . I give zero tip , I'm pissed off : I get outside and the manager Wes ( the bartender is sleeping with him says the lady I was helping ) and his workers are talking about me : like why not ask me what actually happened . Or play the cameras back : I didn't disrespect that young lady at all. She was already mad . Yall handled me wrong . And I promise , I'm never going to forget this ever . I try to support black because I'm black . But okay . I walked down the street to a white owned bar , and spent my money .im so shocked . Prior to this incident, I never ever had a issue with this place : as I live up stairs . Why would I want to...

I can’t say enough good things about this place. Consigliere isn’t just a wine bar—it’s a whole vibe. The moment you walk in, you’re hit with this moody, upscale energy that somehow still feels cozy and unpretentious. The lighting, the music, the design—it all sets the tone for a perfect night out.

The wine list is chef’s kiss—well-curated, approachable, and full of gems you don’t normally see in most places. Whether you’re into funky natural wines or smooth classics, they’ve got you covered. I especially appreciated the staff’s knowledge—they don’t make you feel dumb for not knowing wine lingo. Instead, they guide you like a real “consigliere” would. It’s classy, but chill.

The music? 🔥 A mix of hip-hop, soul, and house that fits the space without ever overpowering it. It’s like the playlist knew exactly what I needed after a long week.

Food-wise, the small bites were perfect for sharing—definitely try the charcuterie board or anything from the raw bar. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully plated.

It’s also worth saying: the energy here is just different. It feels like a place made for people who appreciate culture, good conversation, and elevated experiences without the attitude. It’s stylish without being stuffy, and welcoming without trying too hard.

Whether you’re going on a date, catching up with friends, or just want to unwind solo with a great glass of wine and music in the background—this is the spot.

Already planning my next visit. Newark...

Only been once and it looked like a good vibe, but was turned down at the door because we didn't have a reservation and didn't RSVP to the event. Completely get that. Me and my lady had no knowledge of the event, so I understood.

As we sat outside trying to figure out another spot to go to for drinks, we watched as others got in, a couple groups and a couple smaller parties. I went back to speak to the bouncer and he proceeded to give me the runaround about how he has to be strict with reservations, but based on the timeline and details he gave, we eventually got to a point where I caught him on multiple lies about the parties he just let in, seemingly with no reservation. Others he let in because they knew the owner.

Whatever the case may be, I just hope for more consistency and transparency, as I was excited to try this new local spot, and support a local business. It was clear that the bouncer wasn't being truthful, which is even worse because he actually initially came off as genuine.

I was instructed by that same bouncer to write to the business page on Instagram, but I have yet to receive a response and it's been nearly a week. I'm a bit disappointed in this business for my...