Behind the Scenes at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa’s American Bar & Grille

By Alana Tielmann

The Jersey Shore, or “The Shore” is more than shiny hair gel, self-tan lotion and skimpy clothing for young adults as seen on television.

It is a vacation destination for tri-state residents boasting mile-long boardwalks, amusement parks, and world-class casinos (said no state ever).

With COVID-19 restrictions lifted across the state, Atlantic City is welcoming all as restaurants make their re-openings (and grand openings) in New Jersey’s iconic resort city. Now open at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, American Bar & Grille is a contemporary grill concept glazed in bright red, burnt-orange and golden colors – picture the Northeast’s famed fall foliage. It resides in the former Wolfgang Puck space with existing design elements like chopped timber.

American Bar & Grille - A Bit Old Fashioned

American Bar & Grille – A Bit Old Fashioned

Led by Executive Chef Aram Mardigian, the seasonal food menu pays homage to the native crops of the region, specifically New Jersey’s famous tomatoes, corn, and even fresh seafood reeled in from the shoreline. Selections include the Summer Heirloom Tomato Salad with Bufala mozzarella, basil, red onion, and old balsamic; Jersey Corn Soup with jalapeño cream and cilantro, and Sautéed Local NJ Fluke with white wine, garlic, and lemon sauce. Guests will be kissing and extending their fingertips at the likes of these dishes.

Executive Chef Aram Mardigian

Executive Chef Aram Mardigian

“One of New Jersey’s top industries is agriculture, and it is widely known for its fresh and rich produce – specifically its blueberries, the official state fruit.”
– Chef Mardigian

“We’ve created colorful [crossover] recipes with local blueberries in items such as the Jersey Blueberry Tart dessert and the Jersey Blueberry Mule cocktail.”

Signature Jersey Blueberry Tart, American Bar & Grille

Signature Jersey Blueberry Tart

The beverage program – supported by a 17-seat, centerpiece bar – celebrates classic cocktails with a South Jersey touch, like Philly Sour, combining Philadelphia’s honorary Rittenhouse Rye, fresh lemon juice, orange zest, aquafaba, and Angostura bitters; ABG Negroni, blending dry Bluecoat Gin (also birthed in Philly), Grand Marnier, Campari, and fresh lime, and Jersey Blueberry Mule, featuring ‘The State Fruit.’

American Bar & Grille Negroni

American Bar & Grille – Negroni

“We’d recommend the Jersey Blueberry Mule with the Double Cut Pork Chop, as well as, the Hemingway G&T with the Bigeye Tuna Crudo,” he mentions.

American Bar & Grille - Sunset Grille

American Bar & Grille – Sunset Grille

Craft beer options hail from nearby Cape May, Mount Holly, and elsewhere; in addition to an all-American wine-by-the-glass and bottle offering from various wine regions.

“The dining landscape is ever-changing, especially after the year we’ve had.”
– Chef Mardigian

“We’re very excited about the opportunity to enhance our dining experience for guests and offer our globally-inspired, American-fare concept to those dining at our resort.”

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa is operating at 100% capacity with many amenities, including Gypsy Bar, Borgata Beer Garden and The Water Club, reopening for the summer season. Guests can expect an exceptional dining (and drinking) experience they once knew and loved when visiting pre-pandemic.

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