Ocean Casino Resorts Announces New Dining Venues from Stephen Starr

Ocean Casino Resort will open two Stephen Starr restaurants this summer
Chez Frites and Sunny’s will open in August 2025
Atlantic City is home to many celebrity restaurants

The allure of premier destination spots continues to define the luxury landscape of casino resorts, and the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City is currently enhancing that appeal. The resort is putting the final touches on two new dining spots crafted by the acclaimed Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Stephen Starr. This exciting development comes as the casino resort aims to enhance its culinary portfolio and provide visitors with even more enticing dining options.

Starr’s two restaurant concepts include Chez Frites, a French dinner spot, and Sunny’s, an American breakfast and lunch bistro. Both are set to welcome guests starting on August 1.

“American and French cuisines have always held a special place in my heart. Each offers a unique sense of comfort, tradition, and indulgence,” said Starr. “I’m thrilled to bring these experiences to life with Chez Frites and Sunny’s at Ocean Casino Resort this summer.”

Ocean, one of the most luxurious casinos on the Atlantic City Boardwalk along with the Borgata and Hard Rock, aims to attract a broader range of visitors by diversifying its dining options.

Located at the northern tip of the Boardwalk, the Ocean Casino Resort partnership with Starr was announced earlier this year in April. Both restaurants will feature stunning views from the 11th-floor lobby alongside The Park, a tranquil three-acre green space.

Culinary Accolades in Atlantic City

As Atlantic City settles into its bustling summer season, casino executives are optimistic that the stretch from Memorial Day to Labor Day heralds a renaissance for this hub of gaming and entertainment. Mark Giannantonio, president of Resorts Casino Hotel and the Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ), shared that the city’s culinary landscape is a major draw for visitors.

“We’re perceived as a great value. Our restaurants provide a high-quality experience at reasonable prices compared to those in New York or Philadelphia,” Giannantonio added.

The introduction of Stephen Starr’s restaurants further enriches the already impressive roster of celebrity-owned eateries in the area. Born in Philadelphia and raised in South Jersey, Starr has earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including a Michelin star for The Clocktower in NYC.

Starr expressed, “It feels like a full circle moment for me to work on restaurant projects in Atlantic City, where I made some of my fondest childhood memories, both at the beach and on America’s famous Boardwalk, where I worked as a teenager.”

In addition to his successes, Starr Restaurants Group operates around 30 venues, with many located in Philadelphia, as well as others across New York, Washington DC, South Florida, and even Paris.

Chez Frites will present a prix fixe menu comprising steak, salmon, and lobster, along with salads and unlimited fries. Meanwhile, Sunny’s will showcase refreshed takes on classic American breakfast and lunch dishes.

Celebrity Restaurants in Atlantic City

Casinos and celebrity chefs are synonymous in Atlantic City, just as they are in Las Vegas. The area boasts a plethora of renowned culinary personalities running eateries, enhancing the city’s appeal as a dining destination.

At Caesars Atlantic City, diners can enjoy offerings from Gordon Ramsay, Guy Fieri, and Nobu Matsuhisa, while Bobby Flay, Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro, and more can be found at Harrah’s.

At Ocean, Starr joins culinary heavyweights like the Wahlberg family’s Wahlburgers and celebrity chef Jose Garces’ Distrito. Additionally, the Golden Nugget hosts Michael Patrick, while Bally’s is home to renowned chefs like Jerry Longo and the Carluccio family’s pizza.