Let's EatAugust 06, 2008
Tasty cuisine with a view and rich history – that’s a gimmeNORTHFIELD—There are few places where three things come together to make for a wonderful dining experience; great food, an impressive view, and a rich history. The Atlantic City Country Club is one of those rare finds. Sitting in the heart of Northfield, it is easy to miss the club as a destination for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a sumptuous Sunday brunch, but it would be a mistake to miss. The country club has also become a very popular destination for weddings, with its open patio offering a sweeping view of Lakes Bay and Atlantic City beyond. “People drive by here all the time and do not realize we are open to the public and invite them to come in and give us a try,” said Charles Fahy, the club’s PGA golf professional. It has been more than 100 years since the Atlantic City Country Club opened its doors. They have hosted six Ivy League Championships, numerous PGA events and had the likes of Sam Sneed and Arnold Palmer tee off. The restaurant along with the locker rooms has the look and feel of history, with rich woods and walls lined with the men and women who love the game of golf. “What we have to offer is very special. It is quiet here; we don’t rush you. We want our customers to come in and enjoy their meal and enjoy the conversation with the people at the table with them,” said Pete McCollum, the banquet and golf sales manager. The club offers meals from a seasoned kitchen staff headed by Chef Brian Clotworthy, who has been creating magic in the kitchen for two decades. For years the club was private, but since Harrah’s purchased the property several years ago and added a liquor license in 2005, they have been open to the public for all meals and happy hours in the Tap Room Grille. Golf Digest Magazine recently named the Tap Room Bar and Grille among the top 50 19th holes in the country. McCollum said Chef Brian is the key to creating great meals, and his attention to detail is what makes the difference in having a good meal and enjoying a great meal. “Our Sunday brunch is truly a great meal. Our Early Birdie menu specials offer a wonderful dinner at a reasonable price that allows diners to choose the Atlantic City Country Club for more than just special events,” said McCollum. The Sunday brunch is an impressive array of choices, with wonderful fresh fruit and pastries. The omelet station offers every kind of egg made to order. At the waffle station, fresh waffles made on the spot are complemented by fruit toppings. Chafing dishes are loaded with freshly prepared eggs Benedict, chicken Marsala, garlic shrimp with couscous, bacon and link sausage. A carving station features roast prime rib and fresh roasted turkey. The brunch features homemade miniature desserts and a chocolate pastry display. The cost is $29.95 a person, with children under 12 just $14.95 and no charge for children under 4. “People don’t realize that our prices are in line with other restaurants in the area and we have never skimped on quality. Everything is fresh every day in our kitchen,” said Fahy. “We never use filler in our crab cakes,” added McCollum. “It is all lump crab, lightly breaded, and delicious.” Customer Favorites Breakfast Golfer’s Breakfast ($16) Prime sirloin and two eggs any style. Lunch The Oversized Reuben ($11.50) Corned beef brisket, sauerkraut, imported Swiss cheese and Russian dressing on Jewish rye bread. Fresh Cobb Salad ($14.25) chicken breast, blue cheese, cucumbers, chopped tomato, bacon, egg, red pepper and balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Early Birdie specials are all $18.95 and include five choices along with homemade ice cream or sherbet. Dinner Filet Mignon and Crab Cake ($32). Breaded and Pan Fried Veal Louis ($28) Topped with jumbo lump crabmeat in a Grand Marnier butter sauce. If You Go Early Birdie dinner specials 5 to 6 p.m. |
