Business Buzz
Atlantic City’s dining scene continues to evolve, and one of its most exciting additions is Simpson Restaurant and Bar, located at 2100 Atlantic Ave., in the Tanger Outlets.
Led by internationally recognized Chef Wenford “Patrick” Simpson, the restaurant is becoming a popular choice for locals and visitors seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.
Chef Simpson’s journey to Atlantic City is nothing short of inspirational. Born and raised in modest circumstances in St. Ann Parish, Jamaica, Simpson discovered his passion for cooking out of necessity. At just 10 years old, he was preparing meals for his younger sister, never imagining that those early experiences would lead to an extraordinary culinary career.
After graduating from the Jamaica HEART/NSTA Trust trade school, Simpson began working in Jamaica’s hospitality industry, refining his skills at renowned resorts, including the luxury Sandals properties.
At age 17, he embarked on an 11-year journey at sea, serving as a sous chef with Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Lines, and gaining valuable experience with international cuisines and high-volume operations.
His career path led him to New York City, where he became executive chef at the famed Negril Village in Greenwich Village. He later spent 13 years with the legendary BB King’s Blues Club in Times Square, serving as corporate executive chef, overseeing multiple entertainment venues and restaurants, including Sony Hall, The Blue Note and The Howard Theatre in Washington, D.C.
Along the way, Chef Simpson cooked for an impressive roster of celebrities and dignitaries. His client list includes presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, along with entertainment icons Jamie Foxx, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, George Clinton, Rick Ross, Nelly, CeeLo Green, Mary J. Blige and Bon Jovi. In total, he has prepared meals for more than 400 celebrities throughout the United States and the Caribbean.
Launching a namesake restaurant to showcase his personal culinary vision was always Chef Simpson’s dream, but he is the first to admit that his success belongs equally to his exceptional staff and management team.
In 2020, during one of the most challenging periods in hospitality history, he opened Simpson Restaurant and Bar in Brooklyn at 673 Atlantic Ave. The 300-seat establishment quickly developed a devoted following and earned a reputation for exceptional Jamaican cuisine and warm hospitality.
Chef Simpson first entered the Atlantic City market through ACX1 Studios on Playground Pier at Caesars. Although the concept was innovative, foot traffic at the now bankrupt ACX1 proved insufficient. Undeterred, he found a new opportunity at 2100 Atlantic Ave., where he opened Simpson Restaurant and Bar earlier this year. The response has been overwhelmingly positive.
Guests are discovering a menu that masterfully blends authentic Caribbean flavors with Southern soul and American influences. Signature dishes include expertly seasoned jerk specialties, succulent seafood creations, oxtail, curry dishes and elevated comfort food presentations that showcase Chef Simpson’s artistic approach to flavor and plating.
The growing popularity of the Atlantic City location has already fueled expansion aspirations. Chef Simpson recently announced plans to expand into the former LongHorn Steakhouse space at 2108 Atlantic Ave., reflecting both consumer demand and his confidence in Atlantic City’s future.
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Simpson has become a familiar television personality. He has appeared on the Food Network and numerous national media outlets, including NBC, “Good Morning America,” Fox 5, PIX11 and CBS2. He hosted “Cook-Up with Chef Patrick” on TEMPO Network, and made history as the first Jamaican chef in the United States to host a cooking show on a major network, “Cooking with Love” on Prime Video.
Today, Chef Simpson oversees a growing restaurant brand employing more than 150 team members. Additional locations are planned, including Miami, with further expansion on the horizon.
Yet despite his accomplishments, he remains grounded in the values that shaped him. His personal motto says it all: “Teamwork makes the dream work. Believe in your dreams, be your number one cheerleader, and keep God in the middle of everything you do.”
If you’re searching for a dining experience you’ll never forget, Simpson Restaurant and Bar deserves a place at the top of your Atlantic City itinerary.
Chef Simpson has brought world-class talent, authentic Jamaican heritage and entrepreneurial spirit to the city – and Atlantic City diners are the fortunate beneficiaries.
For more information, visit www.chefwenfordpsimpson.com
