In a significant nod to Atlantic City’s flourishing culinary scene, Kuro, the contemporary Japanese craft kitchen housed within the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, has been named USA TODAY 10Best’s Best Hotel Restaurant. Having previously ranked among the top three in 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024, Kuro’s elevation to the top spot underscores the city’s transformation into a destination that balances legendary entertainment with extraordinary dining.
This accolade strengthens Atlantic City’s brand as a multifaceted travel destination—one that offers an immersive hospitality experience where world-class cuisine stands alongside casinos, boardwalks, and entertainment.
Diversifying the Atlantic City Experience through Food
Tourists today expect more than traditional attractions: they seek authentic, elevated, and sensory travel experiences. In response, Atlantic City’s hospitality sector has embraced culinary innovation to reframe the city’s cultural narrative. With nearly 18 million visitors recorded last year—a 1.2% increase over the previous year—the city is leveraging diverse dining offerings to attract a broader audience, especially food-adept travelers.
Kuro’s success exemplifies how a restaurant can act as a powerful tourism magnet. By offering sophisticated Japanese cuisine—featuring items like A5 Wagyu beef and premium sushi—prepared with both imported and locally sourced ingredients, Kuro offers a compelling reason for travelers to book into the Hard Rock Hotel and extend their stays.
Chef-Led Excellence Drives Destination Appeal
At the helm of Kuro is Executive Chef Leslie Daniel, whose creative vision infuses each dish with nuance and expertise. His leadership reflects Atlantic City’s ongoing shift toward destination dining rooted in both culinary artistry and local engagement. Coverage in travel media highlights the dynamic appeal of Kuro—think wagyu tacos, A5 wagyu ribeye, inventive sushi riffs, and even standout desserts such as cinnamon-sugar Japanese donuts—making it a gastronomic highlight in reviews of the Hard Rock resort.
These menu offerings align with travelers’ desire for creatively elevated cuisine—marked by familiar textures and new taste profiles that deliver on both comfort and artistry.
Broader Tourism Momentum in Atlantic City
Atlantic City’s tourism engine is showing momentum on multiple fronts. Beyond Kuro’s culinary recognition:
- The city welcomed approximately 18 million visitors in 2024, a modest but positive increase year-over-year.
- Its casino resorts generated more than $1.65 billion in non-gaming revenue—a testament to the growing importance of amenities such as dining and entertainment.
- Strategic reinvestments—including upgrades to local amenities and marketing consolidation under the “Do AC” brand—are modernizing the city’s tourism infrastructure and enhancing visitor appeal.
What This Means for Travelers
For guests contemplating Atlantic City as a getaway, here’s why Kuro’s recognition matters:
- Culinary Excellence at Your Doorstep
Kuro’s status as the top hotel-based restaurant means world-class dining is available right where you stay. - Elevated Stays Beyond the Casino Floor
With the Hard Rock offering concerts, a vibrant atmosphere, and now award-winning cuisine, visitors can enjoy a well-rounded, immersive experience without venturing far. - A Destination for Food-Curious Travelers
If gastronomic experiences drive your travel decisions, Atlantic City now offers ample reasons to plan a visit—Kuro being chief among them.
Looking Ahead: A Culinary Compass for Tourism Strategy
As Atlantic City continues its evolution, establishments like Kuro will play critical roles in shaping its future tourism identity. By blending fine dining and cultural relevance, they help shift the perception of the city from a gaming-focused resort to a hub of sophisticated, culinary-minded travel. This shift aligns with broader trends in global tourism, where food experiences increasingly serve as key drivers in destination choice.
Summary
- Recognition: Kuro at Hard Rock AC earns USA TODAY 10Best’s top hotel restaurant honor in 2025, after multiple top-three placings.
- Tourism Impact: This distinction reinforces Atlantic City’s appeal as a well-rounded destination, drawing culinary tourists alongside gaming and entertainment seekers.
- Citywide Synergy: Growing visitor numbers and investments in infrastructure complement Kuro’s acclaim, aligning Atlantic City’s leisure offerings with modern traveler expectations.
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