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Celebrity chef David Burke is adding the historic Bernards Inn to his collection of unique, award-winning restaurants in New Jersey.

After entering into a partnership with the owner, Morristown-based The Hampshire Cos. subsidiary Hampshire Destination Properties, Burke will revitalize and then operate the century-old restaurant and hotel property in downtown Bernardsville.

While plans are still in the development phase, Burke is “looking to breathe new life and fun into the Bernards Inn, while respecting its historic nature and its dedication for serving local ingredients.”

After its anticipated grand opening this fall, Burke’s hospitality group will oversee food and beverage service at the property and then later manage hotel operations, including its 20 luxury guest rooms. Burke also expects to renovate those quarters in the future.

The property includes a main bar/lounge area and two yet-to-be-named restaurants: a larger, fine dining restaurant with 120 seats on the upper level and a smaller, 100-seat space on the lower level. Bernards Inn also has an outdoor dining patio with 30 to 40 seats as well as banquet hall with space for 200 guests.

The Bernards Inn will be Burke’s ninth full-service restaurant in New Jersey and 19th worldwide.

Within New Jersey, Burke’s portfolio includes: Orchard Park by David Burke in East Brunswick, The Fox & Falcon in South Orange, Ventanas at the Modern in Fort Lee, David Burke’s Dixie Lee Bakery in Keansburg, 1776 by David Burke in Morristown, Red Horse by David Burke in Rumson, Drifthouse by David Burke in Sea Bright, The Goat by David Burke in Union Beach and Son Cubano in West New York.

The group also owns and operates restaurants in New York, North Carolina and Saudi Arabia.

“We are looking forward to creating a must-go, top-of-its-class and quintessential dining experience focused totally on the guest experience,” Burke explained. “I have a great respect for New Jersey’s historic businesses and I get a kick out of infusing them with new vigor and fun, ensuring they continue into the future. When I walk in the Bernards Inn, I feel its greatness like an old stadium or theater. I think, ‘Wow, if these walls could talk.’”

“We are excited to partner with Chef David Burke, given his excellent reputation for owning and operating numerous award-winning restaurants,” Alex Imperatore, senior real estate manager with The Hampshire Cos., said. “We feel it is time to raise the bar and infuse the Bernards Inn with new energy and an updated concept. With his culinary achievements, creativity, finesse and solid professional connections, we believe Chef Burke is the right professional to help us achieve our goals.”

Head of the class

In May, David Burke was awarded an honorary doctorate in business administration from Johnson & Wales University for his outstanding achievements in the culinary world over the past 40 years. Click here to read the story.