Ossu Asian Tavern — Restaurant in Atlantic City

edit as of September 2023:

Ossu has changed hours and menu items as well as preparation of menu items so frequently that I feel it's worth it to detract a star from the rating. Most recently, the shishito peppers were overly ripe (yellow in color) and lacked hoisin sauce. The eggplant tonkatsu was also over-ripe; the medallions were over twice the size as it has been in the past and it had a bitter aftertaste.

Additionally, the yakitori has been removed from the menu.

As it stands, it's still good; however, it's no longer the place that my boyfriend & I find a sitter for our child specifically to go to on our date nights.

Original review from March 2023:

I rarely have such excellent dining experiences.

I went to Ossu with my boyfriend on a Friday night when they had a live DJ playing.

The high ceilings, lighting, and slick, black decor made it feel as if we were outside in a city at night eating. It was immediately exciting, especially paired with the DJ's live music. It wasn't playing so loud that I couldn't hear my boyfriend talk, but loud enough that we couldn't hear other diners.

The server didn't mind when we asked to sit side-by-side. He was efficient and had a good attitude. Our drinks were refilled very promptly.

The food itself was SO good! We ordered crispy, spicy shrimp roll, pork belly & bacon-wrapped asparagus skewers, a shishito pepper app, and two alcoholic drinks. The sushi was the weakest part of the meal but it wasn't bad by any means; there was a little bit too much rice relative to the filling in the roll. The peppers were uniquely delicious, grilled, then coated in a sweet sauce and crunchy tempura flakes. They paired well with a chili vodka cocktail. The skewers were also very good - smoky tasting from the grill and hefty in serving size for the price point. It was difficult to determine which dish was the star of the show.

It was easy to be in love & in awe while dining there. The atmosphere was transformative. I can't...

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Tropicana, Ossu beckons with promises of culinary excellence and a warm, inviting atmosphere. As you step into its embrace, the ambiance envelops you—a blend of tropical chic and understated elegance.

Seated comfortably, your journey begins with Deborah, a beacon of hospitality whose knowledge and warmth elevate the evening. Her recommendations are spot-on, guiding you through an array of delights that promise to tantalize the senses.

The pork belly yakitori arrives first, a masterpiece of tender meat skewered and glazed to perfection. Each bite is a symphony of smoky sweetness, paired flawlessly with a mushroom yakitori that surprises with its depth of flavor and delicate char.

The sake flight, a curated selection of rice wines, proves to be a wise choice. Each sip complements the dishes beautifully, enhancing the nuances of flavors without overpowering.

The lo mein, a testament to the chef's skill, arrives with a wok-charred essence that is unforgettable. The noodles are tossed with precision, every bite revealing a harmony of textures and a hint of smokiness that lingers long after.

Sushi follows, showcasing the ocean's bounty with crab and shrimp delicately wrapped in seaweed and rice. Each piece is a revelation—fresh, vibrant, and bursting with maritime goodness.

Throughout the meal, the ambiance of Ossu enhances the experience. Soft lighting plays on, making you feel like you stepped in an izakaya on the streets of Nagato, creating an intimate yet lively backdrop for conversation...

We went as a group of four-it was busy we sat at the bar. The bartender/ waitress was friendly suggesting several things on the menu that she felt were very good. We ordered a black bean clams appetizer that was a special for one or for two.They said it was new to their menu. We ordered it for two We also ordered a surf and turf with asparagus, onions with white rice. The couple we were with received their order promptly. They were enjoying their meal when our clams arrived. We questioned the bartender about the side of the dish she agreed the order was for one although we had ordered for two. They would bring us an additional order. our friends finished their dinner and we still had not recv’d our additional clams or our dinner. We had already asked twice if they could check on our food.16 minutes passed before the additional clams arrived- and then an additional 7 minutes before my dinner arrived. the server handed me the plate and I questioned her she said in a really rude tone blame it on the bartender/waitress it’s her fault- it’s two different kitchens. The plate was all...