Ossu Asian Tavern, Atlantic City, NJ: Restaurant Review
Ossu Asian Tavern
Tropicana
2831 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
Ossu Asian Tavern: Restaurant Highlights
Fare: Asian fusion with Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai influences
Price: Expensive
Food Quality: Excellent, with refined dishes and premium ingredients
Service: Professional, attentive, and well informed
Ambiance and Decor: Chic, dimly lit, stylish, and energetic
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Note: Four-star rating system from 1/2 star (Poor) to 4 stars (Best in Class)
Recommended For: Diners who enjoy polished Asian fusion in a modern setting.
Not Recommended For: Diners who prefer classic American fare, BYOB spots, or a low key vibe.
Recommended Dishes: When available,
- Lobster Dumplings in a sweet sake broth
- Galbi Short Ribs with kimchi mayo and furikake fries
- Mongolian Beef, tender Angus flank steak with garlic and scallions
Liquor: Full bar with a large drink list, 50-plus Japanese whiskies, Japanese beers, and a themed cocktail lineup.
Perched on the Atlantic City Boardwalk inside the Tropicana, Ossu Asian Tavern Atlantic City blends Japanese street food with wider Asian flavors. The menu spans sushi, yakitori, wok-fired plates, and noodles, which makes it an easy pick for groups that want variety with flavor.
Executive Chef Michael Buckley leads the kitchen. He trained at Atlantic Cape Community College and previously headed the kitchen at il Verdi in Atlantic City. His approach focuses on bold flavors, clean execution, and shareable plates.
The restaurant’s hybrid menu is a true Asian crossroads with diverse Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Thai dishes,
Expect sushi-grade fish, well marinated yakitori skewers, and wok dishes that hit the sweet, salty, and savory notes. Portions are generous for small plates, so sharing feels natural. You can pair sushi rolls with Mongolian beef or shrimp pad Thai, then settle in with a pour of Japanese whisky.
The room has a downtown feel, with neon accents, street-style murals, and glowing signs. Communal tables help create a lively scene that works for date night, pre-show bites, or a fun group dinner. By late evening, the energy ticks up, and the space leans into nightlife with music and a buzzier crowd.
Hours are limited to dinner on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, so plan ahead if you want a weekend table.
Key Takeaways
- Come for the shareable plates and sushi, stay for the high energy vibe, and order a Japanese whisky to tie it all together.
- Ossu Asian Tavern brings modern Asian fusion to Atlantic City with style, strong cocktails, and polished plates.
- The sushi is fresh, the small plates are flavorful, and the vibe is upbeat.
- Service is friendly and on point, which rounds out the experience.
- It is also a smart pick for late-night happy hour, with well priced plates and drinks that fit the scene.
FAQs
How expensive is it?
It falls on the higher end, especially for sushi and premium cuts.
Do they take reservations?
Yes, reservations are recommended on weekends.
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual fits the room. Trendy attire is common at night.
Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
You can find a few, but ask your server for guidance on sauces and substitutions.
Is it good for groups?
Yes, the communal seating and shareable plates are great for groups.
Updated October 2025
Our Restaurant Rating Criteria to Ensure Minimum Subjective Evaluation
