90 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022
Our flight on Sun Country went
without a hitch, and we enjoyed the
comfortable and spacious seating on
their Boeing 737-800 jet. Upon arrival
in Atlantic City, the Borgata Hotel staff
shuttled us to the property and picked
up our luggage to make everything
stress-free. Check-in in at the hotel was
a breeze, and within a short period, our
bags were delivered to our room. This
spacious accommodation was perfect
for our three-night stay with its firstclass
amenities, such as a large-screen
smart TV and a luxurious bathroom
and shower.
As you would expect, the casino
area in the center of the building
offers all types of gaming in a beautiful
setting. Surrounding the casino are
restaurants, lounges and retail shopping
opportunities. There was so much to do
that we never ventured away from the
property, not even to visit the famous
boardwalk. One of our first stops was
the spa, where we decompressed with
a wonderful couples massage. The spa
area includes all types of other health
opportunities from a deluxe workout
room to an indoor and outdoor pool.
We spent much of our time going
from restaurant to restaurant, indulging
ourselves in the unusual and special
opportunities to wine and dine. At the
uniquely designed Izakaya by Chef
Michael Schulson, we learned that the
name in Japanese means stay-drink
place, so we settled in and sampled
offerings from its three kitchens, one
for sushi, sashimi and rolls, another for
Robatayaki (Japanese fireside cooking
over charcoal, similar to barbecue), and
another that prepared items such as
charred Chilean sea bass and Karaage
“Hot” Fried Chicken. We loved every
bite at this beautifully appointed
creative dining spot.
Another highlight was dinner at the
Old Homestead Steak House, the only
offshoot of its New York City parent.
In keeping with its more than 100-yearold
reputation, the steak, service and
every other element of dining here was
superb. Don’t miss the creamed spinach.
Another memorable meal was at the
Borgata’s newest fine dining locale, the
American Bar & Grille that focuses on
seasonal ingredients and global flavors.
Executive Chef Aram Mardigian has
created a decadent menu and epicurean
experiences, such as his apple cider
glazed Atlantic salmon with smoked
shallots and beet hips. Likewise, Chef
Michael Symon has crafted an inspired
Italian menu for his Angeline restaurant.
TRAVEL
Izakaya is one of 13 dining options within the Borgata Hotel Casino
& Spa, each with its own flair and style.
The Crispy Rock
Shrimp at Izakaya
was so good that
we ordered a
second serving.
GRAM
THE BORGATA