This Italian chef is also an astute businessman who has helped influence the development of Atlantic City’s restaurant scene for more than a decade. From his arrival in 2003 at Borgata with not just one, but three Italian restaurant concepts—ranging from high-end, composed plates to quick eats—he proved his mastery of the cuisine while earning his stripes as a restaurateur. The owner of a critically acclaimed restaurant and catering company in Northfield, New Jersey, Palladino is known around town for revolutionizing South Jersey dining. “Coming here with new restaurants and projects was a no-brainer because I didn’t think there was anything really compelling,†Palladino explains. “Restaurants here were tired and old. I liked Borgata’s vision to change the face of Atlantic City and attract a whole new market.†Now huge crowds flock to his swanky, stylish namesake restaurant at Harrah’s for a taste of Palladino’s innovative cooking style, modern approach, and healthy Italian ingredients sourced from local family farms (suitably, many belonging to Italian families). Harrah’s reaps the benefits of housing such a top-notch eatery, and the successful partnership has prompted Palladino to launch another project with casino giant Revel this summer. Says Palladino: “Our goal is to stay here and continue to grow. I believe in this market. I love it here.†Harrah’s Resort, 777 Harrah’s Blvd., 609-441-5576; harrahsresort.com PS This Italian chef is also an astute businessman who has helped influence the development of Atlantic City’s restaurant scene for more than a decade. From his arrival in 2003 at Borgata with not just one, but three Italian restaurant concepts—ranging from high-end, composed plates to quick eats—he proved his mastery of the cuisine while earning his stripes as a restaurateur. The owner of a critically acclaimed restaurant and catering company in Northfield, New Jersey, Palladino is known around town for revolutionizing South Jersey dining. “Coming here with new restaurants and projects was a no-brainer because I didn’t think there was anything really compelling,†Palladino explains. “Restaurants here were tired and old. I liked Borgata’s vision to change the face of Atlantic City and attract a whole new market.†Now huge crowds flock to his swanky, stylish namesake restaurant at Harrah’s for a taste of Palladino’s innovative cooking style, modern approach, and healthy Italian ingredients sourced from local family farms (suitably, many belonging to Italian families). Harrah’s reaps the benefits of housing such a top-notch eatery, and the successful partnership has prompted Palladino to launch another project with casino giant Revel this summer. Says Palladino: “Our goal is to stay here and continue to grow. I believe in this market. I love it here.†Harrah’s Resort, 777 Harrah’s Blvd., 609-441-5576; harrahsresort.com PS