Restaurant Relocation Approved In Morris Township

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ — It's official: the popular local restaurant, Sandi's Soulbites, is moving to Morris Township.

The application, which requested a complete site remodel at 255 Speedwell Avenue, which was formerly known as the Hunan Chinese Room, was officially approved by the planning board last week.

The project engineer and planner, Michael Petry spoke before the board giving the latest updates on the proposed site plan. One of the main renovation projects that Petry discussed, is the reconstruction of the current parking lot.

According to Petry the current lot is in poor condition, with potholes of various sizes littered throughout the space. "Overall the parking lot will have total of 54 head-in parking spaces, all of which will be striped 9 by 18 with a 24-foot drive aisle. As in the existing conditions the parking spaces are located in the front yard, however, we designed the parking lot so no spaces are closer to either Speedwell or Hanover than they are today," Petry said.

The three ADA-compliant spaces will be located near the restaurant's front entrance, and the lot will include three electric vehicle charging stations that will service six parking spaces, including one ADA spot.

A small concern over lighting was brought up by the board since the plan calls for security lighting around the property, but since the location does not abut any residential spaces, the board allowed it.

The exterior lights around the parking lot will be turned off during the night and may be automated to turn off 45 minutes after closing, according to Petry.

Included in the site renovations would be adding a unique, colorful mural to the south side of the building. Due to the nature of the restaurant name appearing on the mural, members of the board debated whether or not the mural should be permitted.

According to the board, because the company name is written on the wall, it could technically be considered a sign, making it the third sign on the property and thus exceeding the allowed number.

The updated site would also include an outdoor patio area surrounded by plantings. The patio area would seat approximately 44 people and include a variety of seating options, including a large banquette seating piece and additional tables and chairs.

After an hour-long discussion, the application was approved with the variance allowing for the sign changes.

"I just want to thank the applicant for revitalizing this property that has vacant since the beginning of COVID. Hunan has a long legacy in the Fairchild neighborhood and I think everyone in the township is very happy to see another restaurant go into that location and we wish you the best of luck and success with your new venture," Mayor Mark Gyorfy said.