Relocation For Sandi's Soulbites Discussed By Morris Township Board

MORRISTOWN, NJ — The official plan for the potential relocation of a popular local restaurant, Sandi's Soulbites, was officially heard by the Morris Township Planning Board.

The application, which is requesting a complete site remodel at 255 Speedwell Avenue, which was formerly known as the Hunan Chinese Room, was heard by members of the board on Nov. 21.

Sandra Rogers, the applicant, was unable to attend the meeting due to Covid-19, but the project architect, Margaret Nurre Mayell, spoke to the board about the full building and site renovation plans.

"The site is to be fully revitalized. I know the building has been unoccupied for the better part of a year, perhaps two. We are proposing a full renovation of the exterior, new materials, new windows, new doors and a full renovation of the site," Mayell said.

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

Included in the site renovations would be adding a unique, colorful mural to the south side of the building. During the meeting's comment period, board members requested that the artist show the board and the public the final design of the mural before painting it on the building.

"Whatever is decided in this meeting, we would be happy to submit the final design for your review," Mayell said.

Sandi's Soulbites, which opened in 2019 at 82 Speedwell Ave. in Morristown, briefly closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and recently decided to stay open only to fulfill catering orders and offer weekend brunches for the remainder of their lease term.

The announcement of the change, which was made this past summer, was blamed in part on internal staffing issues, according to a social media post made by the restaurant owner.

At the next scheduled meeting of the planning board, where the application hearing will continue, the second witness for the applicants will speak about the entire site plan.