The Squire says, “You gotta Borgata!”
Izakaya, a modern Japanese pub, has definitely redefined Atlantic City’s dining scene. Inspired by his time living in Japan, Chef Michael Schulson’s first restaurant endeavor, offers guests a unique combination of Japanese cuisine and a dynamic social scene. “Opening my first restaurant at Borgata was a natural decision for me,” says Schulson. “My vision was to offer a contemporary interpretation of Japanese fare in a unique setting that is glamorous, yet still authentic.”
A cross between a restaurant and a bar, guests at Izakaya can choose to converse over cocktails and small plates at one of the communal sushi and sake bars or dine in a more intimate setting in one of the private areas, which offers a full multi-course meal. The restaurant also boasts an authentic Robotayaki grill or Japanese barbeque, where seating is also possible.
Among the more interesting dinner plates are the edamame dumplings, a spicy tuna cracker or the Kobe beef with apricot mustard and cilantro. While seafood makes up a hefty portion of the menu, guests can also expect traditional continental dishes like duck breast and lamb chop, albeit with Japanese flair. Dessert is similarly surprising, with late-night craving creations such as the Chocolate Marquis (Fruit Loops ice cream with assorted candy) and the S’more Tart (Oreo crust with marshmallow and peanut crunch) as well as old favorites like apple pie.
Izakaya also offers a fabulous selection of craft cocktails along with a huge list of top notch sakes, making it an ideal spot to launch a night of dancing and socializing. With a contemporary interpretation of Asian elements, including a floating glass sake bar, a modern pagoda style sushi bar and glass bridge entrance, it’s is a must if you’re planning a night or two of casino hopping in Atlantic City.
Even if you’re skipping the blackjack tables in favor of hanging with friends, this is your kind of place. A few signature cocktails are the Lychee Spiked Tea (Sweet Tea Vodka, Soho liquor and lime juice), a Sour Cherry Martini (TyKu Sake with Grenadine and fresh lime juice) and a Green Apple Mojito made with TyKu and Apple Pucker muddled with fresh mint and lime juice and topped with club soda. You can hit the slots after a few rounds.