City Cheat Sheet: A Shopping Tour of Summit, New Jersey

Town meets country in Summit, New Jersey, which boasts a bustling main street full of locally owned shops and restaurants surrounded by oak-lined parks and stately historic homes. Summit is often praised for its close proximity to New York City, but Manhattanites should consider how close the city is to Summit as a perk—it’s the perfect destination for those looking to leave the hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxed day of shopping and dining. To help day-trippers in the tri-state area and beyond make the most of a visit to the charming town, we asked Brianne Tammaro, Summit native and owner of contemporary women’s clothing and accessories boutique No. 18, to share her insider tips for where to go, from a high-end consignment shop to a not-to-be-missed Italian restaurant.

Where to start your day

Before hitting the shops, Brie recommends popping into Boxwood Coffee Roasters (17 Beechwood Road) to relax over a matcha latte or, for a vitamin-packed option, try The Juice Caboose (30 Beechwood Road), which has been making juices for 20 years—way before consuming green raw juice was considered “on-trend.” If the weather is cooperative and you still have a little time before the shops open, which is 10 a.m. most days, take your beverage of choice over to Soldiers Memorial Field for a long walk, or find a bench in Summit Village Green from which to enjoy a little people-watching.

Where to shop

According to Brie, locals swear by The Collective (31 Maple Street), which is brimming with spectacular high-end consignment finds. (Pro tip: If you find something fabulous but need it tailored, take it to Brie’s talented friend Carlos at Summit Tailors, located nearby at 37 Maple Street). Browse the adorable exercise leggings and activewear at Miss Juli’s Boutique (12 Kent Place Boulevard), which is full of looks nobody else in your Barre class will be sporting. And of course, pay a visit to Brie’s boutique, No. 18 (44 Maple Street). “At No. 18, we really focus on having items that nobody else will be wearing, because it’s a small town,” she says—which means you’re sure to score a unique find.

For accessories, Brie says to stop in beautylounge (31 Maple Street), which has one-of-a-kind jewelry and perfumes, as well as an impressive candle selection. For home furnishings, accessories, and monogramming, visit A. Home (11 Beechwood Road), curated by interior designer Ashley Moos—Brie is especially fond of their Matouk linens. GreatHouse Bonny Neiman (12 Beechwood Road) is filled with all sorts of exceptional home décor—antiques, handmade items, rugs—and offers custom services as well. For inspiration and an art fix, Brie loves to wander through Peanut Gallery (338 Springfield Avenue). “They just hosted a fabulous Geschardt exhibition and are always introducing me to my next favorite contemporary artist!” she says.

For as long as she can remember, the charming stationery store Paperfolio (4 Beechwood Road) has been a favorite of Brie’s. Meanwhile, her shop neighbor Murray & Finn (46 Maple Street) is her go-to for beautiful clothing for her daughter and unique baby and kids’ birthday gifts. For more adorable special occasion outfits for little ones, Brie recommends visiting children’s boutique The Red Balloon (386 Springfield Avenue).

Where to refuel

If you want to enjoy a hidden local gem, Brie recommends Marigolds (426 Springfield Avenue), a café situated in a back alley that you will only find if you’re looking for it that serves delicious soups, salads, and sandwiches.

If Italian food sounds appealing, you’re in luck. “We have some amazing Italian places here in Summit,” says Brie. “My favorite two are La Focaccia Ristorante (523 Morris Avenue) and Fiorino (38 Maple Street). “Fiorino is a local staple, with a more traditional Italian menu and a fantastic bar scene. La Focaccia is a little lighter, and it’s BYOB, so don’t forget to pack a bottle of wine with you for the day if you want to have lunch there!”

Brie recommends Summit House (395 Springfield Avenue) for its beauty, ambiance, amazing list of French white wines, and fresh seafood (what more could you need?). Last but not least, local favorite Roots Steakhouse (401 Springfield Avenue) is an excellent option as well. “Everyone goes to Roots for steak, but I love their seafood, too. We are close to the ocean here in Summit, after all!”

Photograph of Brianne Tammaro at the Summit House by Laurel Creative. No. 18 is featured in The Scout Guide Northern New Jersey.