Briarcliff Commons at 1711 Route 10 in Morris Plains — Courtesy: Urban Edge Properties
By Joshua Burd
A new dumpling restaurant has opened at a Morris Plains shopping center, where it occupies more than 5,600 square feet under a lease with Urban Edge Properties.
In a news release, the landlord said its Briarcliff Commons property at routes 10 and 202 is now fully occupied thanks to the recent commitment by Ugly Dumpling. It’s among several eateries at the 179,520-square-foot complex — which is anchored by Uncle Giuseppe’s, Kohl’s, City MD and First Watch — with a concept that pays homage to the centuries-old cooking techniques of Shanghai with an experience meant to appeal to today’s modern palette.
Jerry Welkis and Stephan Miller of Welco Realty Inc. represented Ugly Dumpling in the 5,654-square-foot transaction. Urban Edge’s Justin Lustig spearheaded the deal in-house.
“Ugly Dumpling brings a new full-service casual dining option to Briarcliff Commons and is an ideal fit with the other food and beverage operators at the Center,” said Lustig, vice president of leasing for the real estate investment trust. “We are proud of the evolution of this center from renovation to 100 percent leased, delivering much-desired services and retail to the community.”
According to a news release, the new eatery has signature dishes such as xiao long bao, a Chinese dumpling from Shanghai filled with rich soup broth. Ugly Dumpling’s menu also has an array of dim sum, wontons, traditional noodle and wok dishes with a spin, accompanied by traditional Shanghai appetizers and greens.
Urban Edge renovated Briarcliff Commons in 2019, bringing new life to the former Harmon’s location.
