'The Time to Build Is Now': Developer Sees Atlantic City Entering a New Era

ATLANTIC CITY — For decades, Atlantic City's identity has been tied almost exclusively to casinos. But one local entrepreneur believes the city's future will be shaped just as much by neighborhood restaurants, independent businesses, community investment and the authentic experiences visitors increasingly seek when they travel.

Appearing on The AC Mike Lopez Radio Show on News Talk 1400 & 92.3 WOND, Evan Sanchez, founder of Authentic City Partners, said he believes Atlantic City is entering one of the most promising periods in its modern history.

Rather than viewing Atlantic City simply as a gambling destination, Sanchez sees a city beginning to redefine itself—one where redevelopment, local businesses and community pride are creating a new identity alongside the casino industry.

"I think there's so much on the rise right now," Sanchez said. "It's an amazing time to be building in Atlantic City, whether that's for-profit, nonprofit, new restaurants, building this, that. It's the time to come into Atlantic City and build."

Sanchez has put that belief into practice.

Through Authentic City Partners, he has been involved in developing restaurants, hospitality businesses and community initiatives designed to attract both visitors and residents. Among the company's projects are Cardinal restaurant, Hayday Coffee and several ventures in Atlantic City's Orange Loop district, an area that has become one of the city's fastest-growing entertainment neighborhoods.

But during the interview, Sanchez suggested that the story is bigger than any one business.

He said today's travelers increasingly want experiences that feel authentic—places where they can experience the community the way residents do rather than remaining inside large tourist destinations.

"Visitors want to go where locals like," Sanchez said. "Visitors want to go to where the cool places are."

That trend, he believes, creates an opportunity for Atlantic City unlike any it has had before.

As an example, Sanchez pointed to New Orleans, a city known for embracing its neighborhoods, culture and locally owned establishments as much as its major attractions.

"When you go down to New Orleans, you feel it," he said. "It's amazing. You cannot ignore it. You fall in love with the place."

He believes Atlantic City is developing that same kind of energy.

Over the past several years, new restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, entertainment venues and small businesses have begun opening throughout the city, particularly outside the casino walls. At the same time, organizations have continued investing in public spaces, community programming and neighborhood revitalization, giving both residents and visitors more reasons to explore different parts of Atlantic City.

For Sanchez, that's exactly the kind of momentum that encourages additional investment.

He said entrepreneurs, nonprofits and developers all have an opportunity to help shape the city's next chapter while contributing to a stronger local economy.

The focus, he said, isn't simply on attracting more tourists—it's on creating places that residents are proud of first.

That philosophy has become central to many of Authentic City Partners' projects, which aim to blend hospitality, neighborhood development and community engagement.

Sanchez also highlighted the work of the Atlantic City Community Fund, an organization that supports neighborhood improvement efforts and local initiatives throughout the city. He encouraged residents interested in community projects to learn more about the fund and its work.

While Atlantic City continues to face familiar challenges—from economic pressures to competition from neighboring gaming markets—Sanchez said he believes the city possesses something increasingly valuable: authenticity.

Instead of trying to imitate other destinations, he believes Atlantic City is finding success by embracing its own neighborhoods, businesses and culture.

He also praised local media outlets for highlighting positive developments and stories that often go unnoticed.

As Atlantic City continues to evolve beyond its casino roots, Sanchez said he believes the city is positioned for continued growth—and hopes others will recognize the opportunity he sees.

"It's the time to come into Atlantic City and build," he said.