As most creative agencies do, we seek inspiration from our surroundings. And for Trillion, that’s Summit, New Jersey, the town that our agency is located in. Summit has a vibrant downtown full of wonderful shops and restaurants that we love to explore before and after work, as well as on our lunch break. We’ve rounded up a list of our favorite spots that feature food, art, design, and more! We’ve listed our Top 20 favorites below in alphabetical order. For a full directory of the area, check out Summit Downtown.
1. Ani Ramen | Not Your Average Ramen
427 Springfield Avenue / Website
We were lucky enough to attend opening night at Ani Ramen in March. Its two other locations have been beloved favorite spots in Montclair and Jersey City. Now Summit gets to enjoy the delicious menu full of ramen. The graffiti wall, “slurp. sip. repeat.” neon light, and bright orange high-back chairs add a lot to the chill atmosphere.
2. Boxwood Coffee | Get Your Caffeine Fix
17 Beechwood Road / Website
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a casual drinker, Boxwood Coffee is a sweet place to meet a friend, have a business meeting, or enjoy some people-watching time. Aesthetically, the shop is beautiful. It features an exposed brick wall, bright yellow chairs, and marble tabletops.
Courtney’s Pick: “When joining Trillion, I left Manhattan (and NYC’s amazing coffee shops) behind. I didn’t think a local coffee shop would compare—but boy was I wrong!”
3. Color Me Mine | Be Crafty
438 Springfield Avenue / Website
This paint-your-own pottery studio is the perfect place to have a low key date night, host a birthday party, or swing by for solo arts and crafts—a fun activity for ALL ages! In the past, the Trillion team visited Color Me Mine for a creative outing and it was truly designer zen. Don’t forget to check out the calendar for fun events and workshops.
4. Fin | Nautical Night Out
37 Maple Street / Website
Unfortunately, Northern New Jersey isn’t graced with seafood restaurants in every town, but Summit is home to Fin, a dining experience offering light and seasonal fare—and perfect for a night out. Plus it’s BYOB, so bring your own liquor and indulge in local fresh seafood.
5. Fiorino | Gluten Free Finds
38 Maple Street / Website
If you’re gluten free, finding quality GF pasta dishes can be a struggle. But luckily, Fiorino has a very accommodating menu when you’re in the mood for a nice, Tuscan meal. This sit-down establishment is upscale, but comfortable, and open for lunch and dinner every week day. Plus, the original renaissance-styled wall paintings make you feel like you’re among the fine art of Italy.
Jess’s Pick: “Fiorino has the best gluten free food because they know their stuff! The staff are super knowledgeable about what is safe to eat and what they can modify for you. They have gluten free pasta (yay!) so you leave feeling happy and full.”
6. Gigi’s Cupcakes | Sweet Treats
417 Springfield Avenue / Website
Sometimes, you just need a midday treat. This happens a little more than often in the Trillion office! When we get that 3pm craving for sweets, we typically head over to Gigi’s Cupcakes in The Wine List of Summit, a unique one stop shop for sweets, coffee, liquor, flowers, and more. Some of our favorite artisanal mini cupcake flavors include Cinnamon Crumb, Espresso Chip, and Banana Nutella.
7. Great House by Bonny Neiman | Unique Home Furnishings & Art
12 Beechwood Road / Website
For antiques and home decor, Great House by Bonny Neiman is a must-visit. The products are constantly changing and you’re sure to find an eclectic, one-of-a-kind piece for your home. From tables to rugs to art, Great House has it all!
8. Hilltop Bicycles | Splurge on Fitness
314 Springfield Avenue / Website
Sure, gym memberships can be great, but investing in a bike will take your physical fitness to a whole ‘nother level. Not only does Hilltop Bicycles sell bikes, but they provide repairs, rentals, and more—plus a community of bikers to ride with!
Lou’s Pick: “The Hilltop Bicycles team are experts in bikes and service. If you’re buying a bike for your growing children or splurging on a new exotic bike of your own, they have it all. But it’s all of the friendly and passionate cyclists that I have met on their numerous weekly group rides which keep me active that I appreciate the most.”
9. Juice Caboose | Kale Yeah!
30 Beechwood Road / Website
It’s more than just a juice bar. In addition to fresh, cold pressed juices, you can order sandwiches, salads, soups, smoothies, and delicious baked goods from this small, hidden gem. Courtney (Marketing Manager) credits Juice Caboose—more specifically: a ginger shot and an Eye Opener (a juice made with orange, carrot, apple, ginger, and lemon)—to curing her latest cold.
10. Marigolds | Seriously Filling Salads
426 Springfield Avenue / Website
Marigolds has a wide range of salads—among other delicious homemade foods—and is a great cozy spot in town to grab lunch with coworkers. While Courtney and Jess (Graphic Designer) love the Vermont Harvest salad (substitute bleu cheese for goat cheese), Larissa’s (Partner) go-to is Cobb. If you’re looking to pick up, we recommend calling ahead as lunchtime can get very busy!
11. Murray & Finn | Stylin’ Baby Gifts
46 Maple Street / Website
Clothing is available at a higher price point than your typical brick-and-mortar store, but they are well-made, unique pieces you wouldn’t find anywhere else. Murray & Finn also sells women’s clothing, home goods, and more. The window display and sidewalk rack will catch your attention, even if you’re not in search of a sweet baby gift!
12. The Papery | Gifts for Every Occasion
371 Springfield Avenue / Website
For stationery and thoughtful gifts, swing by The Papery, a family owned business with four locations across New Jersey. Upcoming wedding, bachelorette party, or baby shower? The Papery will have the perfect present.
13. Roots Steakhouse | Best Place to Eat When Your Friends Are Paying
401 Springfield Avenue / Website
Not your turn to pay the bill? Suggest Roots and order a perfect steak. Even if you’re not a carnivore, Roots’ extensive menu has something for everyone!
14. Summit Diner | Retro Vibes
1 Union Place
Among the oldest diners in New Jersey, Summit Diner opened in 1929. The current railcar building was constructed 10 years later and has since become a notable Summit, and NJ, landmark. If you’re looking for a classic diner experience with swivel stools and red vinyl booths, Summit Diner should be added to your bucket list.
15. Summit Public Art | Bringing Art to Public Spaces
All over Summit! / Website
This not-for-profit brings public art experiences to those who live, work in, or visit the community. Since their launch, Summit Public Art has installed over 60 pieces of temporary art throughout Summit—along with several permanent installations, including the Gateway Tree sculpture that welcomes people into town. See what is currently on display in and outside of the downtown area.
16. Sushi Palace | All-You-Can-Eat Sushi
33 Union Place / Website
You might walk past this sushi joint on Union Place without even realizing it. It is essentially located in a basement, but don’t let that turn you away. The sushi is the best in the area and there’s an “all-you-can-eat” option for the hungriest restaurant goers. You can’t beat the lunch specials at Sushi Palace—soup, salad, and two maki rolls for under $10!
17. Tito’s Burritos | Cheap Eats
356 Springfield Avenue / Website
Want a burrito, but also want wings? At Tito’s you can have both! The menu has a little bit of everything and each item can be customized to your liking. The beachy brand and vibe will trick you into thinking you’re about to go surfing, which is definitely welcomed during the summer months!
Larissa’s Pick: “This is my go-to lunch spot. Excellent burritos, free chips and salsa with purchase, and the perfect beach-surf shack vibe for a quick lunch. Sit outside in the parklet during nice weather and the staff will bring out your food to the table!”
18. Village Trattoria | A Quick Slice
103 Summit Avenue / Website
Summit has a plethora of pizzerias, but our go-to for a quick slice is Village Trattoria. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple plain slice, or a unique combination from their long list of specialty pizzas, the options are endless. This neighborhood staple is on Lou’s (Partner) lunch menu at least once a week and his favorite is the Grandma slice.
19. The Visual Arts Center | Must-See Art Exhibition
68 Elm Street / Website
The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is a leading arts institution right here in Summit offering art classes and rotating exhibitions. If you need your artistic juices flowing, swing by one of their current exhibits.
20. Winberie’s | Happy Hour Every Day
2 Kent Place Boulevard / Website
Experience happy hour at Winberie’s every day of the week—including weekends—from 3:30-6:30. The happy hour menu features drink & wine specials, along with a lower-priced bar menu. Winberie’s feels like a higher-end sports bar and is the perfect after-work drink spot, especially during the summer months with their large outdoor seating area.
About Trillion
While we chose to leave ourselves off the list, Trillion is the “Best Place to Get Your Logo Designed!” Located in downtown Summit, NJ, Trillion is a creative agency specializing in graphic design and web design with a focus on branding. We help launch, manage, and grow brands with creativity and design. Want to chat? Please give us a call at 908.219.4703 or complete our simple contact form.
