South Orange
Essex County, New Jersey
In the heart of Essex County, New Jersey, you'll discover the enchanting town of South Orange. Situated remarkably close to the vibrant metropolis of New York City, South Orange seamlessly combines the allure of a small-town atmosphere with the convenience of a big city.
Restaurants
South Orange boasts a remarkable culinary scene that caters to diverse tastes. Among the local favorites, The Fox and Falcon, led by the acclaimed chef David Burke, stands out as a beloved spot, exuding a welcoming ambiance akin to "Cheers," with a celebrity chef steering the ship. Adding to the culinary landscape are the noteworthy Osteria Del Corso, offering delectable Italian cuisine, and the eagerly awaited Village Hall Restaurant and Bar. Village Hall delights diners with American Nouveau dishes within a century-old iconic building, while its neighboring beer garden provides a casual setting with tempting small bites and an array of excellent beer options.
For those seeking more laid-back fare, consider Miti Miti for Latin street food, Walia Restaurant for scrumptious Ethiopian cuisine, or the esteemed Reservoir Restaurant, known for its pizza. Don't miss the chance to savor breakfast and lunch items, as well as an extensive selection of coffees, teas, and more at Jackie and Sons or The Order. South Orange's culinary offerings are truly a treat for food enthusiasts.
Arts + Entertainment
Nestled in the heart of downtown South Orange Village, SOPAC, also known as the South Orange Performing Arts Center, offers an exhilarating and diverse range of arts entertainment in its intimate venue. It serves as the vibrant cultural hub of the greater South Orange/Maplewood region. For movie buffs, just a short trip downstairs leads you to The Village at SOPAC Multilevel theater, where you can catch the latest box office hits while enjoying a concession stand offering local treats, beer, wine, and, of course, popcorn.
If you're in the mood to get your hands creative, consider trying your hand at pottery with a wheel at Indigo Road, or explore various sewing and crafting classes for both kids and adults at SewLeana. Another delightful place to delve into the world of art is Oh Canary, offering something for every child, including exciting camps.
For those with a passion for music, make your way to Mark Murphy Music. Here, you can partake in classes covering guitar, drums, songwriting, music engineering, or even start or join a band. South Orange truly offers a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic experiences to explore.
Transportation
South Orange's enviable appeal as a place to call home is greatly enhanced by its close proximity to New York City. Thanks to the mid-town direct train line, you can reach Penn Station in under 40 minutes, making daily commuting a breeze. For those who prefer not to drive, South Orange offers convenient options such as parking permits, but the accessible jitney service provides an equally convenient way to access the train. The jitney system covers four routes throughout the town with a fleet of seven buses, ensuring that residents have efficient transportation options at their disposal.
image source: D. Benjamin Miller, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Housing
Whether you have a penchant for Colonial, Mid-Century Modern Ranch, Victorian, or Contemporary architectural styles, South Orange offers a diverse array of housing options to match your preferences. However, it's important to act swiftly because the area experiences low inventory and high demand, causing homes to be snapped up quickly. To navigate this competitive market successfully, having a skilled realtor from the Haven Collective team by your side is absolutely essential. They can help you seize the opportunities that arise in this dynamic housing landscape.
Schools
The South Orange Maplewood School District comprises a total of 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 high school. In the year 2023, Columbia High School received notable recognition, ranking as the 21st most influential high school in the United States according to Academic Influence, further emphasizing its commitment to educational excellence.