If you’ve lived in North Jersey for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard someone mention the "place by the reservoir." They’re talking about McLoone's in West Orange, specifically McLoone’s Boathouse. It sits right in the heart of the South Mountain Recreation Complex, looking like a massive Adirondack lodge that somehow got lost and ended up in Essex County.
Honestly, it’s a polarizing spot. People either love it for the sunset views and the "vacation vibe" or they complain that it’s a "big box" restaurant where you’re paying for the scenery rather than a Michelin-star meal. But here’s the thing: if you go there expecting a tiny, quiet bistro, you’re doing it wrong. This is a 12,000-square-foot powerhouse designed for crowds, families, and massive Sunday brunches.
📖 Related: Funny Gifts for Dads: Why Most People Get It Totally Wrong
Why McLoone's in West Orange Actually Works
Most restaurants in West Orange are tucked away on Main Street or hidden in shopping centers. McLoone's in West Orange is different because it was built from the ground up to be an anchor for the reservoir. Back in 2011, the county spent about $4 million to turn what was basically an eyesore—an old carnival parking lot—into this rustic-chic destination.
It was a gamble.
Tim McLoone, the guy behind the brand, even joked at the grand opening that a third of the people coming through the doors would probably want to hate the place. Why? Because it’s high-profile. It’s part of a complex that includes the Turtle Back Zoo, a mini-golf safari, and a massive regatta-themed playground. It’s a lot. But the gamble paid off because, frankly, there isn't another deck in the area that can compete with that view of the Orange Reservoir when the sun is hitting the water.
The Layout: Where You Sit Matters
You can’t just walk in and expect the same experience in every corner. The building is divided into several "rooms," each with its own personality:
- The Potomac: This is the main dining area. It’s got a floor-to-ceiling fireplace and the best direct views of the water. If you're here for a "nice" dinner, this is where you want to be.
- The Charles: A bit smaller, also has a fireplace, and overlooks the firepit patio. It feels a little more intimate, or at least as intimate as a 250-seat restaurant can feel.
- The Tented Patio: This is the MVP during the shoulder seasons. It’s got fans for the humidity and heaters for when the Jersey wind off the reservoir gets bitey.
- The Bar: This is arguably the most beautiful part of the building. It’s surrounded by heavy wooden pillars and has its own fireplace. It’s where you go for a burger and a beer after hiking the South Mountain trails.
The Food: Managing Your Expectations
Let’s be real for a second. You aren't coming to McLoone's in West Orange for experimental molecular gastronomy. You’re coming for American classics. The menu is designed to be "family-friendly," which is code for "something for everyone."
I’ve seen people rave about the buffalo chicken wontons—they're a bit of a local cult favorite. They also do "bucket drinks," which are exactly what they sound like: large, tropical-style cocktails served in literal buckets. It’s a little kitschy, sure, but on a 90-degree July afternoon on the veranda, it makes sense.
What to Order (and What to Skip)
If you’re sticking to the basics, you’re usually safe. The skirt steak and the salmon are consistent performers. The burgers are solid, especially for the price point compared to the "fancier" entrees.
One thing that people often overlook is the Sunday Brunch. It’s a staple for a reason. In an area where a good sit-down brunch can be hard to find without a 45-minute wait, McLoone's handles the volume well. They do a mix of buffet and seated options depending on the season, and it's basically the default setting for every Mother’s Day and bridal shower in the township.
The "Secret" to a Good Experience
If you show up on a Saturday night at 7:00 PM without a reservation, you’re going to have a bad time. You'll be standing in a crowded lobby, the service might feel rushed, and the noise level will be high.
✨ Don't miss: First time at a swingers party: What most people get wrong about their debut
The pro move? Go for a late lunch or a "locals' summer" weekday dinner. If you can snag a table on the patio around 5:30 PM on a Tuesday, the vibe is completely different. It’s quiet. You can actually hear the water. The servers aren't running marathons between tables.
Also, it's worth noting that the restaurant is genuinely pet-friendly on the outdoor patio. I've heard stories of the staff bringing out unseasoned grilled steaks for dogs. That kind of stuff goes a long way with the locals.
Events and the Wedding Scene
You can’t talk about McLoone's in West Orange without mentioning the wedding business. They can handle up to 300 people, but the sweet spot seems to be around 75 to 130 in the Potomac room.
Because it’s owned by the county but operated by McLoone’s, the pricing is often more accessible than the high-end "wedding factories" nearby like the Highlawn or Pleasantdale Chateau. You’re getting the "Adirondack lodge" aesthetic without necessarily having to take out a second mortgage. They’ve got a reputation for being flexible, too—Janice and the banquet team are frequently name-checked in reviews for saving ceremonies when the Jersey weather decides to dump rain at the last minute.
Is it Worth the Hype?
It depends on what you value. If you want a quiet, romantic corner where you can whisper sweet nothings over a $150 bottle of wine, there are better spots in Montclair. But if you want to watch the sunset over the water, listen to a live band (The Powertones or the Louis D'Alotto duo are regulars here), and eat a decent steak while the kids aren't being shushed by the waitstaff, then yes.
McLoone's in West Orange fills a very specific niche. It's the "fancy" place that isn't too fancy. It’s the "outdoor" place that has actual infrastructure.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit:
- Check the Entertainment Schedule: They have live music almost every Friday and Saturday night starting around 7:30 PM. If you hate noise, avoid these times. If you like a lively bar scene, aim for them.
- The "Post-Zoo" Strategy: If you’re visiting Turtle Back Zoo, don't try to eat at McLoone's right when the zoo closes. Everyone else has the same idea. Wait an hour or go for an early lunch.
- Parking Hack: The lot is huge, but it shares space with the reservoir path and the playground. On a nice day, it fills up fast. Give yourself an extra 10 minutes just to find a spot.
- Reservations: Use them. Even for lunch. The "inside only" reservation rule is common, so if you want the patio, you'll still have to put your name in with the host, but having an indoor backup is key.
- Walk the Path: After your meal, walk the 1.7-mile loop around the reservoir. It’s paved, flat, and offers the best view of the restaurant’s architecture from across the water.
If you’re planning an event, start by requesting their banquet package via the website to see the food and beverage minimums, as they don't always charge a flat room rental fee, which can save you a chunk of change. For a casual dinner, aim for a Thursday evening to catch the sunset without the weekend crowds.