New Jersey's oceanfront gambling mecca will soon be getting a Monopoly-game inspired boutique hotel in its Orange Loop, a neighborhood pegged for revitalization with non-casino restaurants and live entertainment.
Construction is slated to kick off early next year on The Top Hat, a small mixed-use development planned for a vacant lot at 215 S. Tennessee Ave. in Atlantic City. The property will have 1,400 square feet of ground-floor commercial space and boutique hotel-style short-term rental space on the upper level.
As reflected in its name, the development will have a Monopoly-themed motif and be literally capped by a prominent top hat. The project is being undertaken by developer and restaurant owner Mark Callazzo, who is a managing partner of RMS Capital in Lakehurst, New Jersey. The hospitality property's design aims not only to pay "homage to Atlantic City's iconic board game legacy but also aims to establish Top Hat as a cultural landmark and must-visit destination," according to a statement from RMS.
The Orange Loop's name is a reference to the board game Monopoly, which was based on the streets of Atlantic City, including the three blocks that bound the Top Hat's neighborhood: Tennessee Avenue, St. James Place and New York Avenue. There's been an effort to redevelop the area, with the addition of nightlife venues and restaurants. Callazzo owns several of those businesses, including Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall at 133-135 S. Tennessee Ave., Tennessee Avenue Tobacco Co., Cuzzie's Pizzeria, Bar 32 and Rhythm & Spirits.
Atlantic City has been making a comeback since it almost went bankrupt in 2016, and in an economic development drive has been trying to diversify its offerings beyond gambling. Part of that effort is to offer residents and visitors non-casino-related attractions, including dining outside the huge gaming hotels, in places such as the Orange Loop.
Top Hat's boutique short-term rental component will have six bedrooms accommodating up to 12 guests, as well as a rooftop deck with views of the city.
“The Orange Loop has come a long way from its ‘Dead Zone’ days, and this project represents the next step in its evolution," Callazzo said in a statement. 'It’s about revitalizing the area, supporting local businesses, and offering unique experiences that drive tourism and economic growth."
He described the project as "a symbol of Atlantic City’s resilience and innovation.”
In addition to attracting tourists with its unusual accommodations and design, Callazzo expects Top Hat to increase foot traffic in the Orange Loop and draw visitors to nearby establishments. The development will also offer concierge services to guests to help them explore Atlantic City’s diverse dining, entertainment and cultural options both inside and outside of the casino scene.
As part of his continuing investment in the Orange Loop, Callazzo is temporarily closing down Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall on Dec. 22 for renovations.
"This temporary pause will allow us to dream even bigger, refresh our space, and debut a new concept that reflects our commitment to delivering something special to our loyal customers and our community,” he said.
Callazzo's Tennessee Avenue Tobacco Co., a cigar lounge, is one of Tennessee Avenue's latest addition. A container park with entertainment and community spaces is also slated to break ground next year.