Back with another episode of Greetings From the Garden State! This time, we found ourselves in the vibrant heart of Atlantic City, New Jersey, at the newly revamped Angeloni’s Club Madrid. Almost a year has passed since our last visit to AC, and I was thrilled to sit down with Julia Vain, the dynamic force behind this incredible transformation.
As soon as I stepped into Angeloni’s, I was struck by the meticulous attention to detail. The place exudes a blend of old-school charm and modern flair, thanks to a Philadelphia-based design team that truly captured Julia’s vision. Walking around, I couldn’t help but admire the original floors and ceilings from the Club Madrid era, unearthed during renovations. It’s like stepping into a time capsule that honors both its storied past and its exciting future.
For those who don’t know, Julia is a South Jersey native with deep roots in the Atlantic City hospitality scene. From her early days at Bungalow Beach Bar to her transformative role at Tony’s Baltimore Grill, Julia has always been a trailblazer. Her journey is a testament to her passion and dedication, and it’s no wonder she’s become a local celebrity, known for her creative events like Christmas in July and Sopranos brunches.
Julia’s story of how she came to be at Angeloni’s is nothing short of serendipitous. After a memorable dinner at Palizzi in Philly, the idea of revamping Angeloni’s was born. What started as a casual conversation quickly turned into a full-blown project. Julia and her team decided to honor the legacy of both Club Madrid and Angeloni’s, creating a space that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
One of the highlights of our conversation was the unique culinary and cocktail offerings at Angeloni’s. Julia’s “Girl Dinner”—a dirty martini with blue cheese-stuffed olives and a side of gummy worms—perfectly encapsulates the playful yet sophisticated vibe of the place. The menu is a delightful mix of fresh pasta, spicy chicken pomodoro, and other Italian-inspired dishes, all designed to be light yet satisfying.
What sets Angeloni’s apart is its deep connection to the local community. Julia has made it a point to collaborate with other local businesses like Alibi Gin and Rando’s Bakery. The menu even features nods to Atlantic City staples like White House Subs and Dock’s Oyster House. It’s clear that Angeloni’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Atlantic City’s rich culinary heritage.
Julia hinted at exciting future events and collaborations, promising that Angeloni’s will continue to be a hub of creativity and community spirit. Whether it’s a special New Year’s Eve event or a unique brunch collaboration, there’s always something to look forward to.
For those looking to make the most of their experience, Angeloni’s offers a membership program that provides priority access and personalized service. It’s a way to show appreciation for those who support the restaurant from the beginning, making every visit feel special.
Recording this episode at Angeloni’s Club Madrid was an absolute blast. Julia’s passion and vision have truly brought this historic venue back to life, creating a space that’s both a nod to the past and a beacon for the future. If you haven’t visited yet, I highly recommend you do. Follow them on Instagram at @AngelonesClubMadrid for more details.