Where can one find truffled mac ’n’ cheese, walk on glittering floors and get pampered beneath their own beach umbrella? The Chelsea in Atlantic City, N. J.
The Chelsea is nestled in the perfect location — between the hustle and bustle of Atlantic City’s casinos and a quiet stretch of boardwalk.
With a bright neon pink sign, it is hard to miss The Chelsea, and what lies inside creates an equally bright experience.
The Chelsea is the type of hotel that makes guests feel Hollywood-famous the minute they step through the door. With valet parking, modern décor and a friendly staff, the hotel excels at making visitors feel both welcomed and valued.
Opened in 2008, The Chelsea was the first non-casino hotel to hit A.C. in decades. While there aren’t any slots, the boutique hotel itself gives guests a plethora of options for entertainment and relaxation, with its Sea Spa, saltwater pools, fitness center, two restaurants and numerous bars — all of which tend to cater to a younger crowd. The guest rooms are among the hotel’s gorgeous aspects and are situated both in the Chelsea Luxe tower and the lower-cost Annex. King luxe rooms feature complimentary wireless Internet, a 42-inch flat-screen TV, custom mini bar and daily maid service. Many rooms also include breathtaking ocean views.
If you are a foodie, you can vary your dining experience from Dining on the Fifth Floor to Teplitzky’s.
Dining on the Fifth Floor can make one feel like a movie star — from its upscale décor only second to its ocean views. But, if you don’t have a movie star-sized wallet, the menu has something for every taste and price range.
If you are like me and could have mac ’n’ cheese for breakfast, lunch and dinner, then the white truffle mac ’n’ cheese ($6) is a must. Also outstanding was the roasted chicken with lemon pepper and broccoli rabe ($20) and filet mignon ($27). One could make a meal just from the sides — sea-salted string fries ($5), roasted garlic red-skin mashed ($5), sautéed spinach ($5) and grilled asparagus ($5).
Teplitzky’s is The Chelsea’s diner-inspired restaurant. Breakfast foods are usually a make-or-break deal and, sadly, Teplitzky’s did not deliver for us this time. The best part of our meal? The coffee. The worst? Overcooked eggs and not-so-friendly service. The Chelsea does offer extensive nightlife options for a variety of crowds. For those interested in drink and dance, The Fifth Floor, right next to the restaurant, offers a boutique-style nightlife experience for those who love to party. The Fifth Floor features an extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails, DJs and an area for dancing. For those who enjoy a more “open” arena, the Cabana Club offers a Las Vegas-type scene with a pool.
Another fun space is The Chelsea’s private beach club. Guests interested in lounging on the beach can get a complimentary beach umbrella and chairs. Staff will gladly bring you and your guests both — as well as food and non-alcoholic drinks — so you can soak up the rays in style.
One of the only letdowns at The Chelsea was the valet service during the check-out process. First, the line was extremely long, and it took 30 minutes to reach our car. And watch out for an added fee if you don’t move your car after check-out. But overall, The Chelsea offers amenities and an atmosphere that those young — and young at heart — will enjoy.