MORRISTOWN, NJ — A new era of fine dining is coming to one of Morristown’s most iconic landmarks. MM by Morimoto, led by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, will open at the historic Vail Mansion, bringing world-class culinary talent and design to the heart of downtown, announced the Montclair Hospitality Group.
The venture, is a collaboration between Chef Morimoto and hospitality entrepreneur Luck Sarabhayavanija.
“Our goal with MM by Morimoto at Vail Mansion is to create something truly extraordinary — a destination that brings global culinary excellence to one of New Jersey’s most storied landmarks,” said Sarabhayavanija, founder of the Montclair Hospitality Group. “Together with Chef Morimoto, we’re honoring the legacy of Vail Mansion while reimagining what fine dining can be in this region.”
The announcement follows the closure of Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen earlier this year, which had occupied the mansion since 2014. Determined to keep the historic space vibrant, Mayor Tim Dougherty and town officials worked quickly to help secure a new tenant that would both preserve and elevate the landmark’s stature.
Through proactive coordination with the property’s owners, the Town of Morristown facilitated a long-term lease agreement with the Montclair Hospitality Group by March, setting the stage for what town leaders call “one of the most exciting dining projects in New Jersey.”
The new MM by Morimoto will be designed by Ste. Marie Studio, the internationally recognized design firm known for its sophisticated and imaginative restaurant interiors. Plans call for six distinct dining spaces, each blending the mansion’s Beaux-Arts architecture with contemporary design and ambiance.The restaurant will feature elevated steak and mixology programs, offering guests an immersive dining experience that reflects the artistry and innovation behind Morimoto’s global culinary brand.