Cafe 2825

AC locals and visitors alike hear the name “Café 2825” and say, “Yeah, I saw that place, right by Tropicana. Never been.” If you have not stopped in at 2825 Atlantic Avenue and sampled the fare created by chef/owner Joe Lautato, you are missing out on an Atlantic City institution. Scoring high on Mr. CityAtlantic’s list of top spots in town, Café 2825 has been in its present location for more than 20 years, and is one of the few non-casino restaurants in AC that has a year-round buzz. Joe and his food have attracted quite the local following, and it shows after the tourists leave town. Walking into the restaurant is like coming home; you will more than likely see Joe’s mother behind the bar, and one of his children may be your server. The domestic details carry over to the décor: sconces provide soft, warm light, and the ornamental artwork frames look more like they belong in the family's dining room than in a restaurant. The food? As good as mom used to make. As one reviewer very correctly said, the dishes have “obviously been fussed over” before being served. We like the Sunday Gravy and the Chilean Sea Bass. Dinner is served Tuesday thru Friday from 4:30 to 9:30pm; Saturday from 4 to 10pm. Reservations are a must on Fridays and Saturdays from March through November, and can be made by calling (609-344-6913). Most major credit cards are accepted; gratuities requested in cash.