Historic Publick House Set To Reopen Under New Owners In Chester

CHESTER, NJ — The Publick House, a Main Street fixture since 1810, is reopening under new ownership after being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The historic restaurant, which closed in 2020, has officially been sold after being on the market since last year, according to Land Use Board documents.

First opening in 1810, The Publick House at 111 Main St., was a well-known stagecoach stop for those traveling on the Washington Turnpike from Morristown to Phillipsburg.

Originally called the Zephaniah Drake Brick Hotel, the building served as a tavern and hotel, with a few closures for renovations and other endeavors, until 2020.

More than 200 years later, the preserved 18,400 square-foot building will be reopening again under the ownership of Restaurant Village Hospitality Group, which consists of five independent restaurants including Long Valley’s OMG Burger and White Birch Restaurant.

According to the restaurant's website, patrons can expect "a new fun place to enjoy great food and drinks."

An official opening date has not yet been announced, according to officials.