McCormick and Schmick's Restaurant Review:
A must try spot in Atlantic City, NJ
McCormick and Schmick's Restaurant
777 Harrah's Blvd.
Atlantic City, NJ
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
McCormick and Schmick's: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: Seafood & Steaks
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Committed to using locally caught seafood to supplement their more exotic fresh imported catches from Alaska, Hawaii, and the northwest. They also use local farm to table fresh products and ingredients.
Service: Friendly, professional, attentive
Decor: Attractive with dark woods, shiny brass, beveled glass, and attractive color schemes.
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = poor to Four stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: High during peak hours
Dress: Upscale Casual
Recommended For: Date nights, anniversaries, business dinners, holiday meals
Not Recommended For: Casual drop-ins or noisy group gatherings
Recommended dishes: When available, Cajun Dusted Rare Yellow-fin Tuna; Grilled Mahi Mahi with Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo and Sauteed Spinach; and the U.S.D.A. Prime New York Strip.
Liquor: Extensive wine list, specialty cocktails. Bar scene is vibrant.
McCormick & Schmick’s offers a refined seafood and steakhouse experience with regionally inspired cuisine, elegant ambiance, and consistently praised service—ideal for special occasions and upscale dining.
🏛️ History & Vision
Founded by Bill McCormick and Doug Schmick in the 1970s, McCormick & Schmick’s has grown into a nationally recognized brand with over 80 locations. Their vision blends culinary tradition with imaginative innovation, emphasizing fresh, sustainable seafood and classic steakhouse fare. The Atlantic City location, nestled inside Harrah’s Resort, continues this legacy by offering coastal elegance and exceptional hospitality
🍽️ Food & Cuisine
McCormick & Schmick’s specializes in premium seafood and aged steaks, with a menu reflecting flavors from the Pacific Rim, Atlantic Ocean, and Gulf of Mexico. They source ingredients from local farms, ranches, and wineries, supporting a farm-to-table ethos. Signature dishes include:
- Parmesan-Crusted Sole with lemon butter and crispy capers
- Chilean Sea Bass over mushroom-spinach sauté, topped with lump crab and roasted red peppers
- Crab Cakes
Preparation emphasizes simple elegance, allowing fresh ingredients to shine. While not exclusively organic, the restaurant prioritizes quality and sustainability.
👨🍳 The Culinary Team
The brand is known for employing culinary professionals with strong credentials and regional expertise. The kitchen consistently delivers expertly seared seafood and steaks for flavor, consistency, and presentation
🎶 Ambiance & Décor
The restaurant exudes classic charm with upscale touches. Located within Harrah’s Resort, it features:
- Elegant wood accents and soft lighting
- Comfortable table spacing for privacy
- Low noise levels ideal for conversation
- Background music that complements the refined vibe
- No outdoor dining, but some tables offer scenic views of the marina
The ambiance suits romantic dinners, business meals, and family celebrations, leaning more toward ornate and traditional than rustic or industrial
🤝 Service & Hospitality
The staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, with attentive service and well-paced courses. The team is trained to offer menu guidance and wine pairings, enhancing the overall experience. Service is reliable and polished, even during peak hours.
🍷 Other Features
- Bar Service: Full bar with an award-winning Happy Hour, offering cocktails, wines, and bar bites
- Child-Friendly: While upscale, the restaurant accommodates families with kid-friendly options
- Recommended For: Date nights, anniversaries, business dinners, holiday meals
- Not Recommended For: Casual drop-ins or noisy group gatherings
- Parking: Valet and garage parking available via Harrah’s Resort
- Dress Code: Business casual to upscale attire preferred
- Holiday Hours: Open on Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day
🔧 Areas for Improvement
The ambiance, while elegant, may feel dated to those seeking modern aesthetics
🌟 What Sets Them Apart
McCormick & Schmick’s stands out for its commitment to fresh, regionally inspired seafood, exceptional service, and refined atmosphere. Their integration with Harrah’s Resort adds convenience and prestige, making them a top-tier choice for Atlantic City fine dining.
Updated October 2025
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