The Steakhouse at Harrah's Atlantic City

Anyone who thinks Atlantic City is just about endless buffets, hasn't eaten there in the 21^st century. The resort town has taken a page from the gambling Mecca of Las Vegas and adding fine restaurants to the portfolio. The Steakhouse at Harrah's Atlantic City is a prime (pardon the pun) example of that.

The Steakhouse is a combination of cozy and elegant, with formal service at the tables and romantic booths. A large menu includes a varied choice of every meat from steak to pork, and also a number of unusual selections. Despite the fact that it is The "Steakhouse," there's a large following of seafood lovers here. In addition to the raw bar offerings, the Lobster Mac & Cheese is a perennial favorite in this Jersey Shore eatery.

The meal starts with a most unusual bread basket that includes pretzel, onion and flat breads, all served with both butter and cheese spreads. The French Onion Soup at The Steakhouse at Harrah's Resort is delicious, as is the Gala Apple Salad, an unusual mixture of with endive, pecans in the salad and topped with a walnut-dressing. It sounded odd, but blended well. There's also a Caesar Salad made tableside if you prefer, but save room for dinner.

The Tornadoes of beef offers three filets cooked in different sauces. The Prime Rib is rightfully well known and the Chops are big enough to share. As for the sides, the sweet potato fries are sweetened, not salted for a taste that blends well with the steak. If you want to make it simpler, the baked potato is cooked just right. For a vegetable, spinach is great in garlic and oil.

You can't go wrong with any of the desserts at Harrah's The Steakhouse. The Crème Brulee is lit at the table to form a perfect caramelized crust. If you are looking for something lighter, try the chocolate soufflé. It was light like air, but still a deep, strong chocolate.

Harrah's often offers specials - like a Three Course Gourmet Dinner - at The Steakhouse in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Special holiday menus are also available and the hotel sometimes offers packages that include dinner. Check their website for details.