1776 by David Burke Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Morristown, NJ

1776 by David Burke
67 East Park Place
Morristown, NJ

1776 by David Burke delivers a bold, upscale dining experience that fuses culinary artistry with interactive entertainment. With a visionary chef at the helm and a design-forward ambiance, it’s a standout destination for food lovers, special occasions, and corporate gatherings alike.

🏛️ History & Vision

Opened in late 2021, 1776 by David Burke is the brainchild of celebrity chef David Burke and local entrepreneurs Chance Healy and George Schneider. The name nods to American independence, but the concept is anything but traditional. Burke describes it as “revolutionary, maybe,” with a mission to blend fine dining with fun, thanks in part to its unique Topgolf Swing Suite—a high-tech, interactive golf simulator that doubles as a social hub.

🍽️ Food & Cuisine

1776 offers modern American cuisine with a whimsical twist, showcasing Burke’s signature flair for presentation and bold flavors. The menu emphasizes high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, with a nod to farm-to-table sensibilities. Expect inventive dishes like:

Clothesline Bacon – thick-cut, candied bacon hung on miniature clothespins
Lobster Dumplings – delicate, flavor-packed bites in a rich broth
Dry-aged steaks – expertly prepared using Burke’s patented Himalayan salt-aging technique
Squid Ink Tagliatelle – a standout pasta dish with briny depth and visual drama

The kitchen balances organic produce and sustainable sourcing, with seasonal updates that reflect the chef’s commitment to freshness and creativity.

👨‍🍳 The Chef: David Burke

A James Beard Award nominee and Culinary Institute of America graduate, David Burke is a culinary icon known for his inventive, art-meets-science approach. With over 15 restaurants and a reputation for pushing boundaries, Burke brings a playful yet refined sensibility to every plate. His accolades include:

Meilleurs Ouvriers de France Diplôme d’Honneur
Nation’s Restaurant News MenuMasters Award
Appearances on Top Chef Masters and Iron Chef America

🪑 Ambiance & Design

Designed by the renowned Michael Graves Architecture & Design, 1776 spans 7,000 square feet with seating for 200 indoors and 150 outdoors. The space is industrial chic meets glam, featuring:

Black ceilings, white chandeliers, and sleek banquettes
A flirty bar and quiet nooks for intimate dining
Topgolf Swing Suites for interactive fun
Outdoor seating with views of Morristown Green
A vibe that’s elevated yet approachable, with moderate noise levels and curated background music

🤝 Service & Hospitality

Service staff are attentive, knowledgeable, and gracious. Well-versed in the menu and wine pairings, offering thoughtful recommendations without pretension. The pacing is smooth, making it ideal for both leisurely dinners and business meetings

🍷 Extras & Experience

Bar Service: Full bar with craft cocktails, curated wines, and local brews
Child-Friendly: While not designed for young children, older kids may enjoy the Topgolf suites
Recommended For: Date nights, corporate events, celebrations, foodies
Not Ideal For: Budget dining or very young families
Parking: Nearby garages and street parking available
Dress Code: Smart casual to business casual
Holiday Hours: Open on Mother’s Day and Easter; call ahead for Thanksgiving and Christmas availability

🌟 What Sets 1776 Apart?

1776 isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an immersive culinary and entertainment destination. The fusion of fine dining with interactive golf, paired with Burke’s culinary theatrics, makes it one of the most innovative dining spots in New Jersey. Whether you're savoring a dry-aged steak or swinging a virtual club, 1776 delivers a memorable experience that’s both refined and refreshingly fun.

Update October 2025