Eat, Drink, Golf: New Indoor Golf, Upscale Bar, Restaurant Proposed On Route 22

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A new upscale indoor golf, bar and restaurant space is being proposed on Route 22 in Bridgewater.

The Clubhouse of Somerset County LLC has submitted an application to the Bridgewater Township Planning Board, looking to convert the former Safavieh building at 1213 Route 22 West, which closed in September.

The existing building contains about 32,500 square feet of floor area spread over two floors.

The applicant is proposing changes predominantly to the interior space. The interior changes include the construction of a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, installation of 12 golf simulator suites (10 on the first floor and two VIP suites on the second floor), multiple bar and dining areas, casual lounges, a membership-only lounge, private event rooms, a conference room, and storage space.

For the exterior, the applicant is proposing adding a rear patio area intended for socializing, golf-related activities, and other complementary uses, along with reconfiguration and slight expansion of the existing parking lot to increase capacity from 108 to 140 spaces, including EV parking spaces and supporting infrastructure.

The new space would be called "The Clubhouse."

"The Clubhouse is envisioned as a premier destination that seamlessly combines sports, entertainment, community, and dining in a single vibrant location," according to the application.

The Applicant contends that the proposed site plan fully conforms to the Township’s applicable zoning regulations — the GC Zone district, which permits both indoor commercial recreation as well as restaurants. No variances are requested at this time.

The Planning Board is scheduled to hear The Clubhouse application at its Tuesday, Oct. 21 meeting.

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