Atlantic City Local's Favorites
If you're looking for something more sophisticated than theme restaurants (they are all over the Boardwalk), take heart. Under new ownership, the Knife & Fork Inn, at Atlantic and Pacific Avenues (tel. 609/344-1133; www.knifeandforkinn.com), in its revamped, iconic Tudor brick structure that once housed a men's club, has a glam charm again, and where better to indulge in A.C. classics such as lobster thermidor?
The casual Tun Tavern Brewing Company, at the corner of Baltic and Michigan avenues (tel. 609/347-7800; www.tuntavern.com), serves upscale pub grub and first-rate microbrews in a festive, modern setting. Atlantic City's only microbrewery has in recent years gone from a just-OK bar food spot to a truly solid contributor to the AC food scene. They are attached to a 500 room, Miss America themed Sheraton Hotel. Guests can stay in the hotel while enjoying their fine food and beverage service. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, across from the new convention center and in close proximity to local casinos and area beaches.
Named for the tavern in Philadelphia where the Marine Corps was founded in 1775, the Marine-themed bar owned by former Marine Montgomery Dahm is a hotspot for food, beer (try the seasonal brews!) and entertainment. There's stuff going on year round at the Tun, and every August they host the local Miss Hawaiian Tropic pageant. Be sure to go on November 10th of every year, when the Tun hosts a Marine Corps birthday party. The Tun goes above and beyond in proving the adage that "Once a Marine, Always a Marine." In addition to the retooled menu, Tun Tavern is the only spot in AC that truly feeds the beer nut...64-ounce Growler jugs are available and can be refilled. The staff wears (and the gift stand sells) shirts with Ben Franklin's immortal quote: "Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy." If that doesn't sum it up, we're really not sure what does.
Tun Tavern has constructed a state of the art Wine Bar, boasting 35 wines by the glass and over 80 bottles, with the finest selections from around the globe. The Wine Bar opened on July 15th, and will be complimented with flights of wine, cheese and new food pairings. Atlantic City’s first and only Wine Bar joins Atlantic City’s first and only brewery. Tun Tavern is located at 2 Convention Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401.
The Irish Pub & Inn, just off the Boardwalk at 164 St. James Place (tel. 609/344-9063; www.theirishpub.com), is a true Atlantic City gem. It's appealingly old-fashioned, with friendly service and hearty fare that's the best cheap eats in town (nothing more than $7.95). Rooms above the pub are also a steal: Rates range from $25 (yes, $25) to $80 a night.
No Atlantic City visit is complete without a visit to the White House Sub Shop, 2301 Arctic Ave. (tel. 609/345-8599), where you will stand in line (so worth it) for one of its legendary immense sandwiches. Everyone from presidents to celebrities has sought out these yummy creations. So I stood in line with impatient regulars and curious tourists at the White House Sub Shop (2301 Arctic Ave at N Mississippi Ave, 609-345-1564), a legendary sandwich joint that specializes in Italian subs and Philly cheesesteaks.
Other favorites are Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern (2300 Fairmount Ave at N Mississippi Ave, 609-344-2439), a sprawling Italian seafood-and-steak joint that’s been expanding since it opened in 1935. Also worth seeking out is the deliciously old-school Tony’s Baltimore Grill (2800 Atlantic Ave at N Iowa Ave, 609-345-5766) where the pizzas and dirt-cheap plates of spaghetti are the perfect complement to the lineoleum-tiled atmosphere.
Perhaps the most precious find, though, is the speakeasy-style Chef Vola’s (111 S Albion Place between Pacific Ave and the Boardwalk, 609-345-2022), where I could get a table only through the Borgata concierge (customers must be recommended—tell ’em Rob or Mark from The Lyons Group sent you). Though there’s novelty to the family-run restaurant, which is hidden in a residential basement, the most entertaining aspect of the Italian-American meal (which comes on platters, not plates) is host Louis Esposito’s epic telling of the specials—it takes him about ten minutes to do it.
Vola's is an experience that I'll attempt to share. I had read about the restaurant— "Hard to find," "Can't get a reservation," "Great Italian food," "Party atmosphere," "Tacky," "BYOB"—I had to see for myself.
The experience begins with attempting to "get in". Phone calls are answered by a machine—Leave your name, phone number, and date wanted. If you're lucky, you get a return phone call. Seems that reservations are early—6 to 6:30pm—or after 9pm. I've never heard of anyone having gotten a 7:30 or 8pm.
Next challenge—finding the restaurant. This should be easy—it's on Albion Street. With due warning, I drove by during the daytime. Albion is a small street between California and Texas off Pacific. Older homes, close together—no signs of a restaurant here, but one house has lots of boxes and garbage piled curbside. Could this be it? Sure enough—a small, brass placque 2"x6" on the side of the shingled house says "CHEF VOLAS". Glad that I came to scout it out. A small parking lot across the street is always full, so we decide to park at Tropicana and walk over.
At night the only clue is teeny white lights over a garden archway. The small sign is barely visible. It's almost 9pm and a few people are walking in the same direction with bags in tow—some even have coolers. Remember it's "BYOB" and everyone has a big supply of wine and beer. We've all crammed into a small vestibule in the basement of a three-story house. A few chairs, old pictures, and a coat rack. Soon we all become friends. Incredible waves of Italian aromas—garlic and tomato from the dining room. Full, happy diners try to squeeze past carrying their lunch for tomorrow. Everyone is smiling. Soon we'll be seated.
Small, basement size windows, tacky decor, outdoor strings of party lights,about 20 tables. The nice touches are tablecloths and a very happy waitstaff with corkscrew in hand—they want you to be happy too!! The menu is very long, potions are large, pastas and side dishes for sharing. There is an extra charge to share entrees. Now the fun begins. Our waitress rattles off at least 30 specials from memory!! Basically you can have chicken, veal, and fish prepared a dozen different ways. Pastas of all kinds and beautiful steaks simply prepared.
Four of us shared two pastas, one side of spinach—enough for eight—three main courses, and two desserts. All very good except for the tasteless veal marsala. We commented to our waitress and she offered to either replace it or remove the charge from our bill. Not gourmet but good, basic Italian.
We'll return to Chef Volas; it's fun, loud, the staff is friendly, the food good. Go for a casual, fun evening with friends—not for an elegant, quiet gourmet experience, and you'll look forward to your next visit.
Atlantic City Hilton Casino Resort
The Oaks Steakhouse: Traditional New York-style steakhouse features masculine setting with hickory woodwork and brass accents and specializes in steak and seafood. Try the chicken cordon bleu. Pricey. $$$
Patsy's: Famous New York Italian restaurant "that Sinatra built" comes to Atlantic City with the same great recipes in a much more upscale setting. Pricey. $$$
Peregrines': Very unique casino restaurant because of its true continental menu featuring regional and international cuisine. Elegant atmosphere, contemporary cuisine specializing in seafood. Perfect for a romantic night out. Pricey. $$$
Bally's Atlantic City
6ix: A Bistro: American bistro on the sixth flooor featuring great lucky $7.77 blackboard specials. Breakfast served anytime. Affordable. $
The Reserve/Preview Bar: A la carte menu featuring great steaks, seasonal dishes and fresh seafood in a classy, upscale setting. Preview Bar offers the latest mixologist creations and its own take on seafood tapas. Brunch every Sunday at The Reserve includes omelette station, carvery and fresh fruit. Pricey. $$$
Johnny Rockets: Chain offers tasty burgers served in '50s setting, complete with fountain stools. Fresh-baked apple pie, frosty milkshakes a must.Tell them it's your first time and the staff will do a dance and lights show. Affordable. $
Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Izakaya: Celebrity chef Michael Schulson's creative, modern take on Asian cuisine makes Izakaya one of city's best and most unique restaurants. Sushi, robatayaki, signature drinks such as the Sake Sidecar make this modern Asian pub a great place for a date or group night out. Standard. $$
Grilled Filet Mignon at Izakaya
Old Homestead Steak House: New York's legendary meat-packing district steakhouse comes to Atlantic City with an upscale, modern attitude but the same great steaks, including hand-massaged Kobe beef. One of the most impressive decors in the city. Pricey. $$$
Goat Cheese Salad @ The Old Homestead Steak House at The Borgata
Fatburger: West Coast chain comes to Atlantic City with 100 percent all-beef fresh burgers smothered in toppings. Located in The Cafeteria. Affordable. $
Hibachi-San: Mouth-watering Japanese favorites prepared hibachi style. Located in The Cafeteria. Affordable. $
Panda Express: Mandarin, Szechuan, Cantonese specialties served from this chain restaurant, including Americanized cuisine like beef and broccoli, Kung Pao chicken. Located in The Cafeteria. Affordable. $
Seablue: Acclaimed West Coast chef Michael Mina's first East Coast offering features modern approaches to classic seafood dishes and fish from all over the world cooked over a wood-burning grill in a warm, dramatic dining room. Pricey. $$$
Hamachi in Plum Sauce from Michael Mina's Seablue
Tony Luke's: Philly's popular cheesesteak joint comes to Atlantic City, also offering famous chicken cutlets, roast pork and roast beef on fresh-baked bread. Located in The Cafeteria. Affordable. $
Villa Pizza: Fresh pizza, stromboli, salads and authentic Italian entrees. Located in The Cafeteria. Affordable. $
Wolfgang Puck American Grille: Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck's first East Coast restaurant explores American cuisine with international influences. Restaurant features more casual, more affordable tavern area as well as upscale dining room. Tavern area: Standard. $$. Dining room: Pricey. $$$
Roasted Strawberries, Orange Brioche, Cheesecake, Strawberry ice cream at Wolfgang Puck American Grille
Caesars Atlantic City
Buddakan: Stephen Starr's Asian fusion cuisine finds a home at The Pier at Caesars and immediately becomes one of the most attractive and best restaurants in the city. Pricey. $$$
Sashimi of the Day at Buddakan - Chef's Selection which turned out to be bonito, uni, sweet shrimp, Tazmanian salmon, hamachi, and more...
Continental: Stephen Starr strikes again! The Continental, in the Pier at Caesars, is the third Continental to open after the two locations in Philadelphia, and the menu of upscale comfort food in a retro 50s atmosphere is unlike anything I've really ever had in AC.
Not to be missed are the Kobe sliders; their reputation preceded them into town. Hint: get a seat next to the sunken fire pit during dinner; it's awesome for people watching. The consensus is that the patio-style tables that surround the fire pit are too small for sharing multiple plates, but the Continental is like a puggle: it's so cute that it's really hard to stay upset.
The Continental is ideal for cocktails and conversation - it's probably the most "Sex in the City"-type locale in AC. It's chic and very sexy. PERFECT DATE BAR! You can sample a variety of original drinks, my favorite of which is the Buzz Aldrin - a potent potable that features Tang. Even if you don't come to the Continental for dinner, definitely make it a stop on the cocktail trail. Featuring trendy, upscale cuisine in a chic diner-like setting. Pricey. $$$
Shrimp Alhinho @ Continental
Sonsie: A contemporary American bistro, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring items such as: Huevos Rancheros Wraps, Steak Frites, Mediterranean Style Sea Bass and pizzas from our wood-fired oven. The wine list offers over 300 wines from worlds old and new stored in a walk-in glass wine cellar and features a wide variety of wines by the glass. Sonsie boasts five distinct areas to dine, relax, or socialize; a warm dining room with oversized leather banquettes; a storefront which opens to an “outdoor” cafe with breathtaking views of the ocean and boardwalk; a Wine Room for luxurious private dining; and a sultry bar room and lounge with deep leather couches. It’s easy to relax at Sonsie with a Blood Orange Martini, Cappuccino or a glass of Pinot Noir. As the day progresses into night, the music picks up and so does the scene.
Game On!: Sports bar with too many large-screen and plasma televisions to count features scrumptious bar food. Standard. $$
Morton's The Steakhouse: Gourmet steakhouse known around the country features one of its finest locations right here in Atlantic City. Lavish setting complements fine meats and seafood. Terrific bar area and accompanying food. Fine wines. Pricey. $$$
Phillips Seafood: Famous Maryland seafood chain comes north with authentic, fresh seafood restaurant good for couples, families and groups. Standard. $$
Trinity Irish Pub & Carvery: This authentic Irish Pub features above-average Pub food in a setting constructed from former Irish pubs and businesses from Ireland. Plenty of Irish beer on tap. Located inside Pier at Caesars. Standard. $$
Harrah's Atlantic City
Waterfront Buffet: Atlantic City's newest buffet is extremely impressive, not just for its array of food but for its sheer size and interactive stations. Standard. $$
Pretzel Factory: Featuring Philly soft pretzels, pretzel dogs and sausages, pretzel bites and a variety of pretzel dips. All pretzels are baked fresh daily and served hot. Located in the Taste of the Shore food court. Affordable. $
Primo Pizza: A shore favorite for more than 30 years. Oven-baked, award-winning, thin and crispy pizza. Try the signature BBQ chicken and white veggie pizza with ricotta and mozzarella cheese, tomato and broccoli. Buffalo chicken tenders and wings.Located in the Taste of the Shore food court. Affordable. $
Sack 'O Subs: The Sacco Family has been preparing submarine style sandwiches since 1947, at the White House Sub Shop of Atlantic City. Freshest Italian meats, cold cuts and USDA Choice Black Angus beef on locally made Atlantic City-style Italian sub rolls that are baked fresh daily. Located in the Taste of the Shore food court. Affordable. $
Resorts Atlantic City
Gallagher's Burger Bar: Gallagher's operates this fantastic burger bar that features an array of fine burgers as well as innovative appetizers and sandwiches in a trendy bar setting. Standard. $$
Gallagher's: Famous New York steakhouse comes to Atlantic City with signature dry-aged beef, plus seafood in classic yet modern atmosphere. Beautiful bar area. Pricey. $$$
Showboat Casino-Hotel
Foundation Room: The House of Blues' private club's upscale restaurant features fine steaks, fresh seafood and creative cuisine that challenges the palate. Pricey. $$$
House of Blues: Southern-inspired and traditional American favorites in a fun, lively setting. Standard. $$
Tropicana Casino and Resort
Brulee: The Dessert Experience. The world's first dessert restaurant which raises the pastry arts to the level of theatre. From fabulous tableside flambe to the most decadent dessert and cocktail creations imaginable, this exclusive dessert restaurant serves up an extraordinary menu sweetened by fabulous decor and visual entertainment. The adjoining 32 Degrees is a Lounge, online booking will not be available.
Brulee: The Dessert Experience at The Quarter at Tropicana is dishing sweets to high rollers with a $1,000 dessert that will tempt the palates of the most decadent diners.
The dessert is a brownie with imported Italian hazelnuts, topped with gold dust, and served with a vintage port wine, which is served in a $750 Baccarat crystal atomizer that the purchaser takes home as a souvenir.
"Here's the idea," pastry chef Jemal Edwards told The Press of Atlantic City. "You have this beautiful atomizer filled with the finest port known to man. You take a bite of the brownie, and as the flavors are coating your palate, your partner squirts the port onto your tongue. The acidity and sweetness from the port are hitting your mouth at the same time."
And while the restaurant has only sold three of the desserts since its menu debut last year, the slow sales are not discouraging Red Square, which is also located in The Quarter, from offering another $1,000 dessert.
The delectable dish, which will make its debut February 14, is a chocolate pound cake with a raspberry chambord bellini and a blate of black tapioca pearls made to look like caviar, as well as real caviar, shaved chocolate, fresh fruits, chopped candied nuts, and two shots of expensive vodka served in Faberge eggs, which the customer takes home at the end of the night. Pricey. $$$$
Carmine's: The New York City institution's first venture out of the Big Apple; the portions of this family-style Italian restaurant are sure to please. Standard. $$
Corky's Ribs & BBQ: One of the best casino barbecues you'll find. This legendary BBQ joint has been featured in major publications around the country for a good reason: the food is hearty and delicious. Standard. $$
Cuba Libre: Popular Philadelphia Cuban restaurant recreates 1940s Havana street scene with lively atmosphere, cool bar, savory dishes and dance shows. Cuba Libre combines a cool Old Havana decor with spicy seviche, guava BBQ ribs, gaucho steak, camarones (shrimp) enchiladas, and the most refreshing mojitos this side of Miami; there's even salsa dancing. Nightclub at night. Standard. $$
Hooters: Famous restaurant famous for the hot chicks as much as hot wings. Fun place to hang for wings, sandwiches, munchies. Affordable. $
P.F. Chang's China Bistro: Asian chain knows how to prepare Chinese cuisine with a contemporary twist in classy, modern setting. Standard. $$
The Palm: (tel. 609/344-7256; www.thepalm.com), also in the Quarter, draws a high-rolling, high-heeled, Armani-wearing crowd who like their caricatures on the walls -- and great porterhouses the size of a Louis Vuitton handbag.
Red Square: Hip, cutting-edge restaurant with a pseudo-Soviet atmosphere highlighted by a 60-foot ice bar, ice columns, 160-plus rare vodkas and tremendous food. Lunch and dinner. Pricey. $$$
Trump Marina Hotel Casino
DJ's Steakhouse: Prime certified Angus beef and seafood specialties, chilled shellfish and great desserts served in new modern steakhouse. Pricey. $$$
Gulf Shrimp wrapped in Bacon, Papaya Mustard, Avocado from DJ's Steakhouse
Hooters: Famous restaurant famous for the hot chicks as much as hot wings. Fun place to hang for wings, sandwiches, munchies. Affordable. $
Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino
Roberto's Ristorante: Specializing in northern Italy's finest cuisine, the food is complemented by the ocean view. Superb brunch Sundays. Standard. $$
Arthur Treacher's: Chain fast-food eatery offers fish and chips, shrimp, clams and hushpuppies. Located on Boardwalk. Affordable. $
China Cafe: Fusion of Asian cuisines including Cantonese and Japanese as well as Americanized Asian dishes. Affordable. $
Nathan's: Feeaturing its famous all-beef hot dogs, crinkle-cut fries, burgers, chicken sandwiches, cheesesteaks and more Located on Boardwalk. Affordable. $
Rainforest Cafe: Chain restaurant with environmental, jungle theme great for families. Sandwiches, entrees, fun place overall. Standard. $$
Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort
Burger: Awesome burger bar featuring fresh-made shakes, fries, onion rings. Affordable. $
Il Mulino New York: One of the classiest Italian restaurants in the city, this upscale chain focuses on fresh ingredients and unparalleled service, presenting Italian cuisine from the Abruzzi region. Pricey. $$$
Tuscan Tomato Tart @ IL Mulino
Trattoria Il Mulino: Get a taste of Il Mulino New York without spending the big bucks. Same food, smaller portions. Standard. $$
Moon at Dynasty: Bar in front entrance of Dynasty Asian restaurant features sushi, upscale cocktails like the Sake-tini. Standard. $$
Plate: Perhaps the nicest 24-hour cafe in town. Plate is a cool spot that features a bar in the center of the room, entrees that stand a foot off the plate. Standard. $$
Poker Snack Bar: Quick-service outlet for burgers, cheesesteaks, soups, sandwiches for quick break from cards. Affordable. $
The Rim: Authentic noodle bar great for quick bite. Affordable. $
Royal Albert's Palace: What would the Taj Mahal be without an Indian restaurant. This authentic Indian restaurant features a beautiful decor, including a replica of the Taj Mahal. Standard. $$
Safari Steakhouse: Rustic jungle theme with large tree growing through middle of dining room, animal-skin carpeting, furniture, fireplace. Specilizing in Prime aged beef, lamb chops, veal chops and over-the-top desserts. Pricey. $$$
Green Tea & Chocolate Ganache Cupcake from Safari Steakhouse
Sultan's Feast Buffet: Rotisserie, fresh pizza, international cuisine at relatively small buffet. Standard. $$
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