Hungry for an upscale dining experience that tantalizes your taste buds? Look no further than Red Horse by David Burke in Bernardsville, New Jersey. Nestled within the elegant Bernards Inn, this modern American steakhouse transcends the ordinary, offering a culinary journey orchestrated by the famed Chef David Burke. Prepare to indulge in bold flavors, innovative twists on classic dishes, and signature presentations that are as artful as they are delicious. Whether you’re seeking a romantic night out, a celebratory feast, or simply an unforgettable meal, Red Horse by David Burke promises an evening where exceptional cuisine and sophisticated charm cross paths.
Steeped in over a century of hospitality, Bernards Inn in Bernardsville, New Jersey boasts a rich tapestry woven from grand beginnings and culinary reinvention. In 1907, the Ballentine brothers opened their doors to weary travelers, laying the foundation for a landmark destination. Built with stones from a demolished local stable, the Inn exuded a timeless elegance—soon becoming a haven for silent film stars like Mary Pickford and Norma Talmadge. Throughout the decades, Bernards Inn witnessed changing times, adapting to Prohibition and, eventually, evolving into a renowned restaurant.
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Enter Chef David Burke.
Through a culinary vision with an audacious flair, Burke transformed the Inn’s dining scene with the introduction of Red Horse by David Burke. His signature playful presentations and bold flavor combinations breathed new life into the historic establishment. From the iconic clothesline bacon, suspended across plates, to the decadent lobster dumplings, Burke’s artistry redefined fine dining within the Inn’s walls. Beyond are dry-aged steaks with pommes purée, savory lamb chops, and more. Today, Red Horse by David Burke stands as a testament to both the enduring legacy of Bernards Inn and the ever-evolving landscape of culinary excellence.
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Their well-rounded wine list is excellent—including many bottles that are hard-to-find elsewhere. The server masterfully opened a 1995 Opus One from their reserve list (we were celebrating a special occasion), followed by a 2021 Caymus. Each Cabernet was well-rounded—sporting different subtleties that were accentuated when tasted side by side. The wine paired perfectly with our Waygu strip steaks; which had succulent charred edges, and a warm, medium-rare interior. My wife loved her pan-roasted salmon along with briny Canadian oysters—so good, we enjoyed them without any dressing.
Whether you’re a history buff drawn to the Inn’s storied past or a gourmand enticed by Chef Burke’s whimsical creations, Bernards Inn promises an experience that transcends the ordinary. It’s a place where timeworn elegance meets culinary innovation, offering a taste of both history and the avant-garde on your plate.
Red Horse is perfect for your next date night, special occasion or even a meaningful dinner with special friends. I’ve been to more than five of David Burke’s restaurants and Red Horse in Bernardsville has to be one of his best. I’ve been screaming from the rooftops about Red Horse by David Burke in Bernards Inn. Dine there for yourself and you’ll be doing the same.
Tom is a lifelong New Jersey resident, Rutgers and FDU alumni and the publisher of The Digest.
