Write Up - Barista of Bloomfield Avenue

Table 8
This is Table 8, literally. At downtown Montclair's newest eatery (615 Bloomfield Ave) all the tables are numbered. Table 8 (shown here) resides in the plum window spot at the front of the swanky new space. You can't reserve Table 8, says Demetri Malki, the charismatic owner formerly of Dmetris. Malki intends for the table to accommodate walk-ins, who can be seated together to evoke a sort of Asia De Cuba vibe, where people eat together spontaneously and communally, maybe even sharing plates. Don't worry -- there are plenty of tables where you can dine solely with folks you know. Passed hors d'oeuvres were plentiful as was wine last night at Table 8's coming out party. We scarfed down chef Marika Villik's trademark dates stuffed with almonds and gorgonzola and wrapped in smoked bacon, a beggars purse with a moroccan-style shrimp filling and an earthy mushroom soup laced with truffle oil. The real star of the show was the space -- a sophisticated Gotham-like design that makes you want to linger, especially on the sumptuous upholstered red dining chairs. Table 8 has already been open a few nights prior to last night's "Big Night"; in fact, Malki seated 90-plus customers for dinner on Saturday. We snatched a menu (lots of seafood and hand rolled pasta).