One of the Garden State’s most heralded restaurateurs has launched a new eatery called The Morris Proper inside space near the Morristown train station.
Opened by New Jersey natives and helmed by Food & Wine Magazine’s ‘People’s Best New Chef’ award winner David C. Felton, The Morris Proper seeks to be a neighborhood gathering place in which New Jersey’s agricultural bounty takes center stage. Felton’s pedigree is noteworthy as he founded and served as executive chef at Ninety Acres, long one of the Garden State’s most famous farm-to-table restaurants.
Situated in the M Station West development at 100 Morris Street, The Morris Proper is a 12,000-square-foot restaurant operated by Chelsea Hospitality Group. Their food shifts with the rhythms of local farms and markets to highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients.
“Having grown up in Morristown, I’ve had a front-row seat to the town’s remarkable evolution. It’s been inspiring to watch Morristown flourish, and we’re truly excited to contribute to its next chapter,” said Jason Leeds, Founder of Chelsea Hospitality Group. “The Morris Proper aims to honor where we come from while creating something that feels exciting, welcoming, and new.”
Signature offerings at The Morris Proper include handmade pastas, slow-roasted rotisserie meats, and seafood sourced from Jersey shores. A thoughtfully curated beverage program consisting of craft cocktails, wines, and mocktail options compliment the experience.
“We believe comfort and excellence aren’t opposites—they’re partners, and our menu approach is about refining the familiar,” says chef David Felton. “We’re not overcomplicating but letting the bounty of New Jersey’s farms and waters speak through restraint, care, and balance,” shares Felton.
Supporting The Morris Proper’s commitment to local sourcing practices is Erik Oberholtzer, who co-founded Tender Greens and is a respected leader in ethical food sourcing. The design of the restaurant additionally highlights Morristown’s spirit through collaboration with local artists.
With architecture and interior design by global architecture firm Gensler, The Morris Proper is anchored by a 360-degree bar. Lounge seating, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an open kitchen plus outdoor patio seating aiming to provide a vibrant experience.
The Morris Proper is now open for dinner service seven days a week from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m., with lunch starting at 11 a.m. on weekdays. They can be followed on Instagram at the handle @themorrisproper.
