Scannicchio's Restaurant   

2641 Boardwalk
Atlantic City, NJ 8401
609-348-6378
www.scannicchios.com

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It was in April of 1978 that John Scannicchio opened his modest family-style Italian restaurant just steps off the Boardwalk, barely a month before Steve Lawrence' toss of the dice on Resorts International's craps table launched Atlantic City's gaming era. The menu was created from treasured family recipes, with classic antipasto; Steamed Clams; Clams Casino, Oreganata or Posillipo; Mussels; and Italian-style Stuffed Artichokes. There's homemade Manicotti, Lasagne and Gnocchi; tender Veal Cutlets prepared in nearly a dozen variations; Brajole and Sirloin Pizzaiola. Homemade soups include a creamy Seafood Bisque, Pasta Fagioli and the traditional Italian Wedding Soup with escarole and tiny meatballs. John Varalli, who started as a busboy from the restaurant's opening, rose to waiter, manager and chef, took over when the Scannicchio family decided to retire from the restaurant business. Today, John shares the honors with his son Christian, a graduate of the prestigious Philadelphia Restaurant School. John has become something of a local legend for his homemade desserts, including Tiramisu, Ricotta Cheesecake and crispy, cream-filled Cannoli. The Italian home-style atmosphere is further enhanced by the softly piped music with selections ranging from Sinatra to Bocelli, Louis Prima and Domenico Modugno. In keeping with tradition, they offer a selection of fresh fish daily, which will vary according to the catch of the day. It's one of the few restaurants in AC where you'll find fresh Soft Shell Crabs -- they're flown in daily from Louisiana when not in season locally. The cozy 60-seat restaurant has a bar/cocktail lounge offering seating for 20 more waiting for tables. Between a loyal local customer base, repeat word-of-mouth conventioneers returning year after year, and casino players who've discovered the tiny restaurant just off the Boardwalk, there's often an overflow weekend crowd. Reservations are strongly recommended. Free customer parking is available at the corner of Pacific and California Avenues. Scannicchio's can accommodate 75-80 for private parties. Hours: Sunday through Thursday 4:30 to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 4:30 to 11 p.m. The menu is a la carte, with entrees all under $20. Selected wines are available by the glass. --Ellen Burke Rawls