Latest news with #OceanCasinoResort
New York Post
a day ago
- Entertainment
- New York Post
An insider's guide to food and fun in Atlantic City this summer
Nobody will mistake two nights in Atlantic City for a week in Las Vegas. But if you live in New York, have a gambling jones to satisfy, want to party on the beach, take in a show or two and would rather drive for a couple hours than fly for just under six, AC is a good bet. And the entertainment is decent enough to build a weekend around. Highlights on the summer calendar include Tina Fey and Amy Poehler at Ocean Casino Resort on June 21, David Lee Roth at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Aug. 8, and Black Keys at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa on Aug. 9. More regularly, every Wednesday through Sunday, you can check out a bawdy variety show called 'the Hook' at Caesars Atlantic City Resort. There are jugglers who strip down to their jockstraps, a woman who does freaky things inside a balloon and an emcee who never seems to run out of smutty jokes. It's old-fashioned casino entertainment with good taste gone to hell — and the crowd loves it. 5 Take in dazzling bawdy variety shows like 'the Hook' at Caesars Atlantic City Resort. Jody Hartley A recent trip down to the Garden State's gambling hub begins with checking into the appropriately named Ocean, where floor-to-ceiling windows look out on the Atlantic. It's something that Vegas, even at its most derivative, cannot replicate. Other good options for lodging: Borgata, which is as Vegas-y as Atlantic City gets, the Hard Rock if you want to recall your inner Eddie Van Halen and the Nobu Hotel, which occupies floors 42 to 44 of Caesars and aims to do for Jersey Shore overnighting what the sushi master did for raw fish. First thing in the morning, a leg-stretching stroll down the boardwalk — passing the giant observation wheel, at the old Steel Pier where horses once dove into the water, and more taffy stands than you can count — followed by a quick sit-down at a blackjack table are called for. It's worth noting that during the early hours, limits tend to be the lowest of the day. That said, as the minimum bets rise, it's time for brunch. Destination: Cardinal, which is the reigning non-casino gem of Atlantic City. Shimmering lights illuminate the bar and décor inside is farmhouse cool, Williamsburg styler. Fittingly, paintings of cardinals abound. Tasty offerings — which can be eaten outside, accompanied by live acoustic music — include Korean duck wings, house-made veggie burgers and a New England Benedict with smoked salmon. For something more along the lines of elevated bar food, Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall spins up burgers, pizza and kimchi fried chicken sandwiches. Taps line the length of one wall — Big Sal's IPA is named for the managing partner — and games of cornhole get competitive juices flowing in the yard. For cheesesteaks, a local delicacy, White House Subs is king. 5 Ocean features big-name DJs. Courtesy of Ocean Casino Resort Upcoming at Ocean are two offerings from celebrity restaurateur Stephen Starr. Chez Frites will be a bistro-style eatery where Paris-worthy steak frites promises to rule as a specialty. Next door, breakfast and lunch views are likely to get elevated in every sense of the word at Sunny's, which will serve comfort-food with a shimmering 11-story-high view of the Atlantic Ocean. 5 Not to mention rooms with stellar views. Courtesy of Ocean Casino Resort When the sun is shining, HQ2 Beachclub at Ocean has big name DJs on the roster. This summer, revelers will wade into the pool to the sounds of Tiësto and Steve Aoki. On cloudy or cold afternoons, the MGM Tower at Borgata's 21-and-up indoor pool is the place to be. And there are always rides via tram on the freshly launched Boardwalk Tours, helmed by local legend Mike 'AC Mike' Lopez. While slowly motoring down the Boardwalk — trams top out at 5 miles per hour — he'll loop you in on the latest AC dish plus the true history of Nucky Johnson (fictionalized by Steve Buscemi, as Nucky Thompson in 'Boardwalk Empire') as well as local nightlife rogue Paul 'Skinny' D'Amato. 5 No one can pamper quite like the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City If you're a guy in need of grooming, have Mike's side kick and top-notch driver Freddy Isaac drop you off at newly opened Hammer and Nails (the classic face treatment there will erase worry lines that might have popped during a bad run at the tables). Ladies (and men for that matter) can hit up Rock Spa and Salon at the Hard Rock for topnotch pampering. Either way, be sure to ask Freddy for a White House tip: His favorite sub, which involves a cheeseburger, mayonnaise and hot peppers. Non casino dinners are well handled by the Italian red sauce spot Angelo's and the Vietnamese mainstay Little Saigon. Staying in house tonight, we're enjoying perfectly medium-rare ribeye at Ocean Steak. The wine selection takes up an entire side of the restaurant, the double smoked bacon appetizer is a crowd pleaser and remember to order Jersey creamed corn on the side. This haven of hearty fare also happens to be conveniently close to Fanatics Sportsbook, the Michael Rubin brainchild that opened last September and ranks among the best place in town for watching games. Giant high-def monitors cover the walls, an enthusiastic crowd piles in and betting opportunities abound. Bottle service is available upstairs (though it's no charge down below). 5 This boardwalk empire is loaded with top casinos like Borgata. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa As the hour nears midnight, it's time for a binge of casino gambling at Borgata. In the casino's brand new high-limit, baccarat-dominant, gaming quarters, the action is heavy and the energy level is pumped. Gamblers shout 'Monkey! Monkey!' when calling for 10-value cards while high-rollers discreetly do their thing in private gambling dens. We ante up for a bit of baccarat — playing Banker results in a lower house edge — before heading over to pai gow poker. A woman at the table, with a tiny plastic duck on top of her chips, seems unable to lose. Unfortunately, not possessing the duck or the luck, there is only one reasonable option: slip out the back of the baccarat room and into Noodles, the attached Asian food restaurant. Yes, a giant dinner was eaten mere hours ago. But the soup dumplings and Asian barbecue beckon. They are worth making room for. With dinner number-two digesting, and gambling spirits buoyed, it's either off to one of AC's happening nightclubs — including Premiere in the Borgata, HQ2 in Ocean and Pool After Dark at Harrah's Resort – or else poker at the Borgata's well-appointed card room. In the spirit of AC being a gambling town, a decision is made with the flip of a coin. Poker wins. So, it's shuffle-up-and-deal until breakfast, when it's time to chow down once more and start all over again.
New York Post
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Seas the Summer: Family Fun and Memory-Making Moments in Atlantic City
Summer has officially kicked into high gear – so it's time to turn up the heat with an unforgettable trip to Atlantic City, a destination that truly offers something for everyone. 'Whether you're here for the beach, the music, the food, or the fun, there's no better place to celebrate and create summer memories than right here in our iconic seaside destination,' said Gary Musich, President and CEO of Visit Atlantic City. Here is your guide to making lots of memories this summer in Atlantic City. For more information, Visit Atlantic City. A-list talent is descending upon Atlantic City this summer: visitors can stop by the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City and catch rock veterans Incubus, pop legends Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons and country mainstay Sam Hunt. Or head to Ocean Casino Resort and laugh out loud when comedy queens Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are in town. Lastly, head to Spiegelworld for The Hook, a hilarious, adults-only homage to Atlantic City's golden age. Family-Friendly Activities Advertisement Edward Lea There is fun waiting to be had at any age in Atlantic City! Families can enjoy a day at the Atlantic City Aquarium, where guests can engage with sea creatures in one of the six hands-on touch tanks. They can also learn about the local native species like the Loggerhead sea turtle and horseshoe crab. Don't forget to book your tickets to the Atlantic City Cruises where you can get an up close and personal view of the locals on the Dolphin Watching Adventure. Kids will also have a ball climbing the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey, the Absecon Lighthouse. After an afternoon at the Aquarium and lighthouse, head to the Atlantic City Boardwalk and Steel Pier for a stroll down the iconic boardwalk, and experience the thrills of the boardwalk rides like the Flying Dutchman or The Wheel, the third-largest observation wheel of its kind in the United States. Bring the kids over to the Showboat Resort where they can enjoy Island Waterpark, the largest indoor beachfront waterpark. After they dry off, hit up Lucky Snake Arcade and enjoy go-karting, roller skating or one of the many other arcade you leave Atlantic City, be sure to visit Lucy the Elephant, a six-story high National Historic a little family competition going and fit in a round of mini golf at North Beach Mini Golf and Bike Rentals. Relax and Recharge Sit back and lounge the day away in a cabana by the pool at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. If you're looking for a pool with a view, head to the Eclipse Indoor/Outdoor Pool at Ocean Casino Resort, or enjoy a rooftop view from the pool at Tropicana Atlantic City. For further relaxation, make an appointment to rejuvenate your mind and body at Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Atlantic City, or Rock Spa & Salon at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Advertisement Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City Some of the coolest new restaurants and bars in the country are descending upon Atlantic City, and you don't want to miss out on this citywide culinary journey. From celebrity chef restaurants to hidden gems loved by locals, there's a table for every tastebud and occasion. The ByrdCage packs in vibrant energy as the first LGBTQ+ establishment in Atlantic City in nearly 20 years, offering entertaining brunches, happy hour specials, a piano bar, drag shows and so much more. Meanwhile, famed restaurateur Stephen Starr is putting his mark on Ocean Casino Resort with two new restaurants opening this summer! One will be French forward, while the other will have an American flair serving up comfort food like a Thanksgiving dinner all year round. Recharge from the night out and start your day with brunch reservations at the Cardinal, who offer up indoor and outdoor seating. Other fun things to do in Atlantic City Photo courtesy of Visit Atlantic City The Visit Atlantic City Soar & Shore Festival is a full week of excitement, running from Monday, July 14 through Sunday, July 20. Enjoy a dynamic mix of entertainment all week long, featuring high-flying aerial acts and engaging events throughout the city. The free, family-friendly air show will take place July 15-16 over the beaches at Atlantic City from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. 'The Soar and Shore Festival Air Show brings together the best of summer entertainment elements,' said Herb Gillen, President of Herb Gillen Airshows. 'Crowds will be treated to top-tier air show performances by state-of-the-art aircraft in a festive atmosphere on a gorgeous beach and all free of charge. There is truly nothing like the Visit Atlantic City Soar & Shore Festival, and we can't wait for the fun to begin.' Atlantic City Accommodations Advertisement There are many options for where to rest your head each night in Atlantic City: visitors can stay at one of the nine casino resorts along the iconic Boardwalk or situated along the back bays of the Marina District. Visit Atlantic City, where every celebration is unforgettable, and every visit is an opportunity to create memory-making moments and celebrate life's greatest adventures.
Associated Press
14-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
OCEAN CASINO RESORT ANNOUNCES $50 MILLION IN 2025 CAPITAL PROPERTY INVESTMENTS
Ocean to Unveil 559 New Blu Rooms and Suites, Open Multiple New Dining Concepts, Expand Premier Casino Experience and More Images + Renderings *Credit: Courtesy of Ocean Casino Resort ATLANTIC CITY, N.J., April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ocean Casino Resort today announced over $50 million in property-wide capital investments planned for 2025. These new development projects are part of a seven-year, $270 million property transformation that Ocean has been implementing since its inception in 2018. This latest commitment includes more than 500 new Blu Rooms and Suites, a casino expansion, five new dining options and more. 'Ocean continues to invest in property enhancements that enable us to provide an unmatched guest experience not only in Atlantic City, but nationwide,' said Bill Callahan, General Manager for Ocean Casino Resort. 'We are introducing five highly anticipated dining concepts that our customers have been asking for. This year also marks an exciting milestone as we complete the entire hotel with fully renovated guest rooms and suites.' New Ocean Blu Rooms & Suites ($25 million) Ocean's 2025 investment in its guest rooms and suites marks the culmination of a multi-year project to transform all 1,860 guest rooms and suites at the property. In 2022, Ocean introduced 12 floors of renovated Blu Rooms and Suites that had been unfinished by the previous owner and, in 2023 and 2024, unveiled more than 700 guest rooms and suites, as well as the introduction of its Duplex and Bay suites. The design of the new Blu Rooms and Suites is inspired by colors and patterns of the shoreline, elevating Ocean's unmatched beachfront location on the waters of the Atlantic. The beach-inspired flooring and wallcoverings create a calming atmosphere, while the soft-touch fabrics mimic the style and forms reminiscent of this modern, yet iconic building. Pops of color complement Ocean's breathtaking views, while the luxurious bathrooms feature marble flooring, a double vanity, and an over-sized shower. The newly built suites offer elevated interior finishes and additional amenities such as a dining area, wet bar, and generous lounge seating for guests to host small gatherings. Two New Dining Concepts with Famed Restaurateur Stephen Starr ($5 million+) Ocean Casino Resort is opening two new restaurants in partnership with restaurateur Stephen Starr, who is lending STARR Restaurants' expertise on the conceptualization of the two venues. The multi-million-dollar concepts will be located on Ocean's Lobby Level and are scheduled to open this summer. LaScala's Fire Coming to Ocean A South Jersey & Philadelphia area favorite, LaScala's Fire is famous for being your home away from home for classic Italian American cuisine reimagined in a great atmosphere with great service. Its newest iteration, LaScala's Fire at Ocean will continue that standard, with starters like the ricotta board, cheesesteak egg rolls, and meatball trio, along with delicious pastas, gourmet pizzas, and oversized entrees ranging from chicken parm to grilled salmon. Everything at LaScala's Fire at Ocean will be homemade, just like owner/restaurateur Rob LaScala's grandmom did. LaScala's Fire at Ocean will be located on the Casino Level across from Villain & Saint and is slated to open early summer. Additional Food & Beverage Offerings Over in The District, the all-new High Steaks has quick eats that are bold and flavor packed. The menu is centered around premium, mouth-watering steaks, loaded with hearty, satisfying options for every craving. Indulge in the signature Wagyu cheesesteak or opt for the classic Philly Cheesesteak on a seeded or non-seeded roll for a true taste of tradition. Making its debut the end of May, Ocean guests will be able to start their day at Blend – Ocean's go-to spot for hand-crafted smoothies and acai bowls bursting with delicious flavors. Nestled on Ocean's Lobby Level next to Eclipse Pool, Blend presents a warm and inviting atmosphere that beckons you to unwind or recharge. Whether you're fueling up for a busy day or grabbing something fresh on the go, Blend's curated menu brims with delectable options designed to both energize and satisfy. Asian Gaming to Double in Size ($4 million) As part of its ongoing upgrade of the casino experience, Ocean will introduce a larger polished Asian Gaming space by summer 2025. Designed by R2Architects, the footprint will double its size, from 4,000 to 8,000 square feet, offering 32 gaming tables including Mini Baccarat and Pai Gow Poker. Ocean's 18 Mini Golf & Bar Opens Featuring $500,000 Immersive Holograms Get ready for a hole-in-one experience! Ocean's 18 Mini Golf & Bar, a new multi-million-dollar entertainment destination, will open later this summer, offering fun for visitors of all ages. This exciting venue will present technology used at The Sphere in Las Vegas, featuring a state-of-the-art course and two stories of immersive fun, all within an expansive 8,000-square-foot space. As guests enter, they will be greeted by two eye-popping holograms, including a 12-foot Great White Shark towering over the vibrant main bar, creating an atmosphere unlike any other. It will be conveniently located next to LaScala's Fire on the Casino Level. Sweetheart Coast by Sammi Sweetheart Ocean's newest retail offering will represent the Jersey Shore in all the best ways. Slated to open early summer within the Shops at the Row, Sweetheart Coast is a fashionable clothing boutique for women of all shapes and sizes with fun home décor, accessories and unique gifts. Even More North Beach Currently situated on 20 beachfront acres on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ocean's sandy shores have expanded in 2025. With the recent completion of the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers' $92.6 million project to replenish the sand on the beaches of New Jersey's coastline, Ocean guests will now have access to additional exclusive beachfront fun just outside the doors of the property. ABOUT OCEAN CASINO RESORT Spanning over 20 beachfront acres on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, Ocean Casino Resort, named 'Best Casino' by Philadelphia Magazine's 'Best of Philly' awards, features 1,860 guest rooms and suites; 135,000 square feet of gaming entertainment; over 1,750 slot machines; 125 gaming tables; 160,000 square feet of meeting and convention space; 90,000 square feet of unique outdoor space; 5 upscale dining restaurants; 10 casual dining options; a 40,000 square foot spa; 6 signature day and nightlife experiences; and a 4,500-seat concert venue. Ocean is home to the world's largest Topgolf Swing Suite and offers both land-based sports wagering and online gaming within the state of New Jersey through its real-money gaming sites. Ocean Casino Resort is owned and operated by AC Beachfront, L.L.C. For more information about Ocean, please visit or follow Ocean on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, & TikTok. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Ocean Casino Resort
Forbes
03-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Stephen Starr Is Opening Two New Concepts In Atlantic City This Summer
Visionary restaurateur Stephen Starr is developing two new dining concepts for Atlantic City's Ocean Casino Resort. There's no shortage of buzzy developments and events in the pipeline for Atlantic City this summer—from the return of the Atlantic City Airshow to the debut of Steel Pier's new roller coaster Sky Rocket II—but the biggest news is the just-announced partnership between the visionary James Beard Award-winning restaurateur Stephen Starr and Ocean Casino Resort for two new dining concepts. 'I formed some of my finest childhood memories in Atlantic City, both at the beach and on America's most popular boardwalk, where I worked as a teenager,' Starr shares exclusively with Forbes. 'When the team at Ocean first approached me, it felt like a full circle moment. I admire how Ocean is constantly improving and enhancing their offerings, while keeping the guest experience front and center.' While the restaurants are still in the development phase, one thing's for certain: in true Starr style, they'll deliver exceptional crowd-pleasing cuisine, detail-oriented design, and polished service from start to finish. 'The 'Americana' concept will be open for breakfast and lunch, and will offer a nostalgic menu of comfort foods that are familiar and beloved by all,' says Starr. 'The menu will feature dishes such as Pigs in a Blanket, Tuna Tacos, Pierogies, Home-Style Meatloaf, and Thanksgiving Dinner served year-round.' One of Stephen Starr's new concepts at Atlantic City's Ocean Casino Resort will focus on the classic French bistro favorite, Steak frites. As for the second concept, Starr is drawing inspiration from Paris' iconic Le Relais de Venise L'Entrecot—'it combines old-school charm with a new-school twist'—and its cult favorite steak frites smothered in herbaceous butter sauce. Starr shares, 'The menu will be a prix-fixe of Steak, Salmon and Lobster with frites—in addition to a few à la carte offerings.' Starr's partnership with Ocean Casino Resort couldn't have come at a better time. Atlantic City has been on a steady upswing since the pandemic, and this news will give all kinds of travelers, from gourmands to high rollers, another reason to visit. 'We are excited to add to this historic culinary fabric with our own interpretation of classic dining that will be a draw for locals and out-of-towners alike,' says Starr, who hopes to recreate some of the magic he experienced in Atlantic City as a kid.
