"Rock and Roll Chef" Kerry Simon Hits His Prime

by Michelle Boland, Posted Jun 24th 2010 @ 2:00PM

Photo: Michelle Boland

The Atlantic City Hilton isn't laying low, waiting for the economy to improve. Instead, the city's smallest casino has gone all in, spending $20 million on renovations and opening four new restaurants.

The centerpiece is Simon Prime, a contemporary steak house by celebrity chef Kerry Simon.

"I tried to come up with something that was fun and low key," Simon told Slashfood at Tuesday's opening. "I put the waiters in jeans and sneakers."

Along with steak and seafood, Simon Prime will serve comfort food favorites like mac & cheese, meat loaf and his signature cotton candy.

Dubbed the "Rock-n-Roll" chef by Rolling Stone magazine, Simon has created a brand of restaurants known for an eclectic vibe and innovative menu. His other restaurants include Simon LA and LA Market in Los Angeles and Simon at Palms Place in Las Vegas.

Next month, Simon will open a burger joint called KGB: Kerry's Gourmet Burgers at Harrah's in Las Vegas. At KGB, he'll take inspiration from his 2005 "Iron Chef America" victory, where he defeated Cat Cora in the ultimate burger battle.

Filed Under: Restaurants, Chefs
Tags: atlantic city, atlantic city hilton, kerry simon, simon prime