Down the Shore

Sammy D’s Opens at Harrah’s; Mussel Bar Coming to Revel

Sam DeMarco at Sammy D's
Sam DeMarco at Sammy D’s Photo: Sammy D’s

Sammy D’s, the glammed-up retro diner concept that Grub reported had Sam DeMarco partnering with BR Guest’s Steve Hanson to bring to Atlantic City, finally opened Saturday at Harrah’s. Billed as a 24-hour coffee shop that features local flavors — local flavors re-imagined by DeMarco (think broccoli rabe egg rolls and Philly cheesesteak dumplings) — replaces Reflections Cafe at the back bay casino. It will serve customers around the clock from Wednesdays to Sundays. Across town at the opening-soon Revel, D.C. chef Robert Wiedmaier is bringing the Mussel Bar to life. The Belgian-inspired gastropub, which will be modeled after Wiedmaier’s original is in Bethesda, MD, will feature a 26-seat bar, open kitchen and a large dining room.

Though still not ready to receive guests, Revel, which will also feature restaurants from Jose Garces as well as fellow Iron Chef Marc Forgione, is raising some eyebrows with its hiring practices. Each employee hired will be subject to four to six year term limits, according to Newsworks. While union leaders and labor advocates question the move, Revel insists it will “attract the most highly professional people who are inspired by a highly competitive work environment.”

Sammy D’s, Harrah’s Resort, 777 Harrah’s Boulevard, Atlantic City, (609) 441-5402.

Revel casino in A.C. says new hires shouldn’t get too comfortable [Newsworks]
D.C.-area Chef Robert Wiedmaier to bring beer, music and great food to new gastro pub in Revel [Press of Atlantic City]

Sammy D’s Opens at Harrah’s; Mussel Bar Coming to Revel