Dining gems in Ventnor... plus!

August 2007

For years, Ventnor has been “squished” between the glitz of the Atlantic City casinos and the sophistication of Margate’s eateries along the beach block and back bays. This summer, Ventnor is enjoying a resurgence with several new dining spots. Judging from the sidewalks filled with waiting customers, Ventnor’s popularity is definitely gaining some ground. Lisa Savage, of Savaradio fame, has returned to Ventnor with Sage, a manageable 75-seat dining room. The BYOB eatery features many of her customers’ longtime favorites, plus many new items with a Mediterranean flair. Lisa’s Market, her upscale grocery, is soon to open and will offer gourmet breads, food items and ingredients.

Ventnor Avenue has become a popular boulevard. Osaka Sushi & Steak House opened on Memorial Day weekend. Its spacious dining room complements the large portions and reasonable prices. Along Ventnor’s southern border are Manna and Johnny’s, both small but much in demand.

Of course, there are also other solid dining rooms like Nostalgia Room and Yama, where the food is always good.

HOW FABULOUS CAN YOU “B”?

In an era when people dress more casually, expensive jewelry often sits unused in a home safe or jewelry box. However, colorful, creative costume jewelry can also put a dent into a clothing budget.

The owners of the new " B" Fabulous, the 15,000-square foot accessory store in Egg Harbor Township’s English Creek Shopping Center, realized that women wanted the freedom to experiment with different colors and styles without breaking the bank. The showroom floor opened in February.

Imagine the merchandise selection in a showroom that size.

Management claims they carry 700 handbag styles, thousands of earrings and a huge variety of fashion jewelry like sterling silver, silver-plated and semi-precious items.

In addition to the jewelry and handbags, I could hardly believe the large selection of scarves, hair accessories and extensions, small leather products, and cases for phones or iPods, and body jewelry. Men’s fashion items include only belts.

"B" Fabulous was holding a great handbag sale the night I stopped by...buy one, get one free. What a bargain.

Hundreds of fabric, vinyl and canvas bags lined the walls for under $20. How satisfying is it to get two bags for $10 each? Ladies, for under $100, you can stock up on some colorful, fun items that will accessorize every outfit in different, unique ways.

NEW EATING AND PLAYING AT RESORTS AND HILTON

Whether uptown or downbeach in Atlantic City, Resorts Atlantic City and its sister property, the Hilton, have debuted new dining, gaming and entertainment options for the summer.

Capriccio, the lovely Italian restaurant overlooking the ocean at Resorts, introduced its new summer menu. I recently ate there, and can confirm that the appetizers, pastas and veal were delicious. My favorite was the exquisite blend of flavors in the lobster risotto in saffron broth.

Either before or after a great meal, Resorts new casino salon features an array of popular Asian table games, traditional table game favorites and a large poker room. The new gaming parlor is closer to the Boardwalk than any other table game area in Atlantic City.

Open 24 hours daily, the room conducts Texas Hold'em Poker tournaments on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Active players may smoke.

Resorts has just extended the engagement of entertainer Joe Piscopo for several evenings into August. I have seen his terrific show, and was amazed that the versatile singer and comedian also plays several instruments, making the performance extra special. Further south, the Hilton has opened its 10Til late nightclub experience.

Every Saturday night through the end of the summer, the multi-million dollar Chairman's Club will be transformed into an upscale club with floorto- ceiling ocean views and stylish décor after 10pm.

For a $10 cover charge - free to Elite and Ultra members - guests may sample specialty martinis, cocktails and a light menu, featuring a variety of gourmet appetizers and desserts.

MOVIN’ OUT FOR LESS

Also this summer, Harrah’s has adapted the Billy Joel-inspired Broadway hit, “Movin’ Out,” to a 90- minute format. The show showcases the brilliant choreography of legendary Twyla Tharp.

Using many Joel favorites, the show profiles a group of friends during the stormy 1960s and 1970s.

The lessons and experiences they learn together create the backdrop for the no-dialogue show. The story is told completely through their music and dancing.

The show runs through August 21st. Ticketmaster is running a “buy one, get one free” ticket promotion. Go to www.ticketmaster.com, and enter “BILLY” in the promotion box.