Chef Jason Dilts has an impressive list of culinary achievements to his name, despite his young age. Latest on the list is his first restaurant, Chef Jason at 1275, which features a rotating, seasonal menu. But at just 27 years old, Dilts is only getting started with this restaurant in Cranbury. 1275 replaces Zinna’s Bistro (which is now just down the road).
The 3,800-sq foot space offers two indoor dining rooms. “It’s a modernized atmosphere,” Dilts says. “After lunch, the lights are dimmed; and the linens are brought out to cover the tables and set the mood for a fine-dining experience.” Chef Jason at 1275 accepts reservations for parties of 10 or more. Under normal circumstances, the main dining room seats 100. Meanwhile, there is a private dining room that seats 18.
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Chef Jason at 1275 also offers two outdoor patios. The main outdoor patio seats 65 and “Guests can sit in the shade under the grapevines that act as nature’s awning,” Dilts says. In addition, a second patio seats 40, and is ideal for private events.
Chef Jason Creates a Seasonal Menu Driven by Local Produce
Though it changes often, the menu always showcases what’s currently in season. Chef Jason has relationships with select purveyors and farmers; so they can serve fish that’s caught daily as well as produce that’s picked at the height of each season. Of course, this allows him to use the best possible local ingredients. “1275 is redefining American Cuisine, offering a unique menu designed to please any palette,” Dilts says.
So far, the small plate options are big hits. “These dishes highlight one ingredient sourced locally from a close-by farm,” Dilts adds. For instance, guests love The Windmill Farm Fries sourced right in Robbinsville. Other small plate options include fried tomatoes and spaghetti squash puttanesca.
Otherwise, the family meals are the current highlight of the to-go menu. These options are built to feed four or more over a five-course menu. For example, the Soul Food Package features Southern style BBQ; then there’s the Little Italy package, with traditional Italian American cuisine.
About the Chef
Chef Jason Dilts was born and raised in Robbinsville. “I’ve been in the restaurant business my whole life,” he says. “Through the early years of my career, I took on jobs that would teach me all the different cuisines.” By the age of 22, he was offered a head chef position at Zinna’s Bistro. Shortly after, he became the head chef at The Revere Restaurant in Ewing.
At 27, he left The Revere to return to Cranbury and open his own spot. “There was an opportunity to start my own restaurant in the same building I really discovered the true fulfillment of food and my passion for the kitchen,” he says.
You can visit Chef Jason at 1275 along 1275 South River Road in Cranbury. Find the spot online for menu details and other info.
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Chef Jason at 1275 FAQs
Yes, they do accept reservations.
Yes, they offer gluten-free items.
There are vegetarian options, yes.
They offer takeout, yes.
They do offer delivery, yes.
No, they are BYOB.
Yes, there is a kids’ menu.
All Photos: © Chef Jason at 1275
