A New Chapter for Marco Polo: Local Restaurateur Revitalizes an Iconic Summit Establishment

Summit’s Marco Polo Restaurant has long held a special place in the hearts of local diners. Known for its rich Italian and Continental cuisine, the establishment has been a part of the community for decades.

But now, after a transition of ownership and a thoughtful rebranding, Marco Polo is preparing for a complete renovation and a fresh new look, signaling an exciting new chapter for both the restaurant and the town.

Located at 527 Morris Avenue in Summit, NJ, Marco Polo has been a staple of the town’s dining scene. However, in July 2024, the reins of the beloved restaurant were passed into the hands of local restaurateur Jes Taylor, who is committed to breathing new life into the iconic space.

Jes, a seasoned restaurateur, has worked in the industry for over 12 years, including stints at renowned restaurants like Bar Boulud and working his way up Daniel Boulud’s restaurant group, as well as Dirty French and Colicchio and Sons. After managing several Roots locations for Harvest Restaurant Group, Jes took on the responsibility of reopening the Sergeantsville Inn. His latest venture, Marco Polo, felt like a natural next step.

“The opportunity to revitalize Marco Polo in my hometown came and was one I could not pass up,” Jes said. “After two great years at the Sergeantsville Inn, I made the move to Marco Polo in July 2024, excited to tackle a new project.”

Jes has assembled a team that has helped to bring this new restaurant to life, including his wife Lauren and his sister Emma Radest, who was born and raised in Summit. Emma initially pursued a career in post-production and freelanced for several years as an associate producer for various shows before stepping into the world of hospitality. When Jes took over the Sergeantsville Inn, Emma joined him, taking on a range of responsibilities from food photography and social media management to customer relations and event coordination. Now, as they transition Marco Polo into a new era, Emma is thrilled to take on creative roles while overseeing the restaurant’s rebranding.

“I loved my childhood here,” she said, “and cannot believe my luck that work has brought me back home in a sense.”

When Jes and the team first arrived at Marco Polo, they took time to assess the restaurant’s culture and history. They worked closely with a design team with deep Summit roots to develop plans for a renovation that would honor the building’s legacy while injecting fresh energy into the space.

Jes shared, “We began working with a design team to draw up plans and ideas for a new concept. It is extremely important to us to bring new life to the building while retaining its heart — great food, great community, and a welcoming spot for everyone.”

The restaurant closed on February 15 for renovations, and while there is no set timeline for reopening, Jes is confident that the transformation will be worth the wait.

“We have a wonderful team of designers, architects, and contractors working with us and we are so excited to get started.”

Once reopened, Marco Polo will become Aubrey’s Corner — a contemporary bistro with a focus on community.

The team envisions a bright and inviting space that welcomes everyone — from families enjoying a post-sports meal to professionals holding business meetings. With a focus on excellent food, hospitality, and a warm atmosphere, Aubrey’s Corner will be a place where everyone feels at home.
“The menu will feature contemporary bistro fare, and our goal is to create a welcoming space where people can gather,” Jes said. “Whether you’re here for a quick lunch, a celebration, or a family dinner, we want you to feel like you belong.”

“We are bolstered by the community’s support and feedback about the upcoming changes,” said Emma. “This new chapter is not just about a restaurant — it’s about fostering a sense of connection and belonging in Summit.”

While the renovation process may take some time, the Aubrey’s Corner team is eager to bring its vision to life. “We hope that in a year’s time, we can look back and say that our commitment to this community has paid off,” Jes shared.

With his passion for food and hospitality, along with a deep love for Summit, Jes’ vision for Aubrey’s Corner promises to create a new gathering spot that will continue the tradition of Marco Polo while charting a fresh and exciting path forward. As the renovation begins, the community eagerly awaits the return of this cherished restaurant, now with a renewed purpose and energy.