This past weekend my husband and I traveled to Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City for a lunch and learn event with Chef Jose Garces at his on-site restaurant, Amada. We dined at the restaurant’s Philadelphia outpost several times and were excited to experience the Atlantic City location. Garces’ original Amada location is celebrating 18 years in Philadelphia.

We were greeted with a welcome glass of prosecco and made our way to our group’s table. A plate of crackers, Marcona almonds, olives and a tuna dip sat at each table. The tapas-style menu included lamb meatballs, short rib flatbreads, chickpea and spinach stew, cauliflower and grilled chicken. Dessert was olive oil cake. We enjoyed excellent wine pairings with the dishes, including Albarino, Rioja, and sherry with dessert. Each of the dishes highlighted Andalucían cuisine, and the wine pairings elevated the dishes even further.

I spoke to Garces after lunch. He plans to franchise his fast-casual Bueno Onda restaurant, which offers tacos, nachos, bowls and other Mexican dishes. He also has plans to focus on his retail business, Casa Verde. The food company offers plant-based meals. There are exciting things on the horizon for the chef in Philadelphia, Atlantic City and beyond.

It was a great afternoon enjoying traditional Andalucían cuisine and meeting Garces. Amada is a must when visiting Ocean Casino Resort.

— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director