The Best Dining Spots in Atlantic City, NJ
Atlantic City has become one of the top food destinations on the East Coast.
The city’s restaurant scene stands out for its nonstop energy, welcoming hospitality, and remarkable diversity.
Whether you’re drawn to classic Italian kitchens, iconic steakhouses, or crave the excitement of sushi bars, there’s a spot here that’s earned its place on every food lover’s bucket list.
Expect to find much more than boardwalk treats. Atlantic City's best restaurants combine family tradition, bold innovation, and standout global flavors. Local favorites serve up fresh seafood from nearby docks, while upscale venues bring memorable dining with unforgettable flair.
Each visit promises something new, and this guide brings together the essential places to eat so you can savor the best of Atlantic City, no matter your taste or budget.
Now’s the time to book a table and start planning your tour of Atlantic City’s best restaurants. From romantic dinners to lively brunches, each spot promises something new with every visit. If you want to make the most of your next trip or weekend out, let this list guide your journey.
Iconic Italian Experiences in Atlantic City
Atlantic City’s Italian dining scene brings old-world warmth and modern flair to the city’s restaurant lineup. Here, classic recipes, family traditions, and tableside finishing touches transform dinner into an experience. These beloved spots highlight both the depth of Italian-American flavors and the city’s appetite for show-stopping hospitality.
Cafe 2825: Tableside Theater and Old World Flavor
Cafe 2825 is a beloved, family owned Italian American restaurant known for its intimate setting, exceptional hospitality, and unforgettable tableside presentations. A reservation worthy Atlantic City classic, it blends Brooklyn roots with upscale, handcrafted cuisine.
- Fare: Southern Italian & Italian-American
- Best For: Special occasion dinner. Food lovers seeking authentic Italian flavors. Couples, small groups, and anyone who appreciates tableside culinary theater. Casino guests and locals looking for a refined, intimate meal
- Signature Dishes: Tableside fresh mozzarella. Tableside Cacio e Pepe prepared in a cheese wheel. Cavatelli. Bone in Veal Parmesan. Veal Chop Bolognese Fra D’Avolo
- Ambiance: Intimate, 14 table, white tablecloth dining room. Warm, family-run atmosphere with personal touches from the owners and staff. Upscale yet welcoming, with the feel of a classic neighborhood Italian spot
- Special Features: Free self parking nearby
- Why It Stands Apart: Cafe 2825 stands out for its rare blend of authenticity, hospitality, and culinary craftsmanship—where nearly every dish is made from scratch, and tableside preparations elevate dinner into an experience. Its loyal following, difficulty of reservations, and decades long reputation reflect a restaurant that consistently delivers some of the most memorable Italian cuisine in Atlantic City
Learn More: Visit New Jersey Leisure Guide review on Cafe 2825
Chef Vola’s: Secretive, Homestyle Excellence
Chef Vola’s is a legendary, reservation only Italian American restaurant tucked inside a historic Atlantic City home. Over 100 years of history (established in 1921). Known for its intimate atmosphere, generous portions, and iconic desserts, it remains one of New Jersey’s most coveted dining experiences.
- Fare: Classic Italian-American cuisine
- Best For: Special occasion dinners. Food lovers seeking old school, authentic Italian cooking. Couples and small groups looking for a cozy, memorable night out. Fans of hidden gem, “if you know, you know” restaurants.
- Signature Dishes: Bone in Veal Parmesan. Lightly breaded bone-in veal chop. Crab cakes and shrimp entrées. Ziti with blush sauce. Chilean sea bass. World-famous chilled Banana Cream Pie—loved by Frank Sinatra, JayZ, and Beyoncé
- Ambiance: Cozy, tightly spaced dining rooms inside a private residential home. Warm, family style service with a nostalgic, old world feel. Casual, intimate, and unpretentious—no flashy décor, just great food and conversation
- Why It Stands Apart: Chef Vola’s blends century old tradition with unforgettable hospitality, serving Italian classics in a setting that feels like a secret supper club. Its combination of legendary dishes, celebrity‑approved desserts, and a fiercely loyal following makes it one of the most iconic dining experiences in Atlantic City.
Scan the Chef Vola's Websire for Menu and Reservations
Angeline and Girasole: Modern and Coastal Italian Gems
If you want to experience Italian dining with a modern or coastal twist, Angeline and Girasole make perfect picks. Each puts their unique spin on tradition, yet both stay true to the roots of Italian hospitality.
Angeline is Iron Chef Michael Symon’s heartfelt tribute to classic Italian cooking, blending bold flavors with nostalgic family recipes. Located inside the Borgata, it delivers soulful red sauce favorites in a warm, timeless setting.
- Fare: Classic Italian cuisine inspired by Symon’s Sicilian roots
- Best For: Date nights, Celebratory dinners, Italian food purists. Casino goers seeking a refined yet comforting meal
- Signature Dishes: Mother Angeline’s Sunday Sauce. Handmade pastas. Wood-fired specialties. Mozzarella dishes, arugula salads, and standout desserts like ricotta cheesecake and strawberry shortcake
- Ambiance: Warm, dimly lit, and timeless, with a homestyle Italian feel and a beautiful interior that evokes nostalgia and comfort.
- Special Feature: Priority reservations for MGM Rewards Gold+ members.
- Why It Stands Apart: Angeline distinguishes itself by pairing chef driven Italian cuisine with deeply personal storytelling — every dish reflects Michael Symon’s heritage, passion, and signature bold flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a curated experience that blends nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the energy of Atlantic City’s premier resort.
Scan the Angeline Website for Menu and Reservations
Girasole brings the warmth and elegance of a Mediterranean café to Atlantic City, offering refined regional Italian cuisine just steps from the boardwalk. Known for handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and a sun splashed atmosphere, it’s a beloved neighborhood gem with an Old World soul.
- Fare: Regional Italian cuisine
- Best For: Romantic dinners, Special occasions. Wine lovers. Outdoor dining in warmer months. Guests seeking an upscale yet welcoming Italian experience
- Signature Dishes: Salmon carpaccio & steak carpaccio with mushrooms. Casarecce pasta. Veal chop parmigiana. Mushroom pasta. Tuna steak. Pasta trio sampler. Brick oven pizzas made with traditional Italian ingredients
- Ambiance: Bright, airy, Mediterranean inspired dining room with Old World charm. Impeccably decorated interior featuring warm tones and stylish details. Lush garden patio for al fresco dining during warmer months. A lively yet refined atmosphere that feels like a European escape
- Special Features: Outdoor garden patio seating. Vegetarian friendly options
- Why It Stands Apart: Girasole distinguishes itself by blending authentic regional Italian cooking with a breezy Mediterranean ambiance rarely found in Atlantic City. Its commitment to handmade dishes, elegant presentation, and a transportive café style setting makes it a standout choice for diners seeking both sophistication and heartfelt hospitality.
Scan the Girasole Website for Menu and Reservations
Both restaurants balance authenticity with memorable flair. Whether you crave the comfort of Sunday sauce or the brightness of coastal seafood, Angeline and Girasole deliver memorable meals rich with Italian soul.
Seafood and Steakhouse Standouts
Atlantic City earns its reputation as a dining powerhouse with its standout seafood joints and timeless steakhouses. Here, you’ll find a seamless blend of historic charm and modern flair, where chefs treat local catch with respect and serve up steak that rivals any city on the East Coast. These restaurants set the bar for freshness, quality, and atmosphere—making them essential stops for any food lover mapping out their next meal in AC.
Dock’s Oyster House: Over a Century of Tradition
A legendary Atlantic City institution since 1897, Dock’s Oyster House delivers impeccably fresh seafood, classic hospitality, and timeless charm. Known for its raw bar, refined dishes, and warm family run spirit, it remains one of the city’s most beloved dining experiences.
- Fare: Fresh seafood, steaks, and classic American coastal cuisine.
- Best For: Seafood lovers, Celebratory dinners. Date nights. Groups seeking a polished yet welcoming dining experience. Visitors wanting a true Atlantic City classic
- Signature Dishes: Nightly selection of up to 10 oysters from the raw bar. Soft shell crabs in season. Live lobster and premium steaks. Crab chowder, crab cakes, and Fish en Papillote
- Ambiance: Elegant, historic, and warmly upscale. Lively yet refined dining room. Piano bar enhancing the classic suppe club feel
- Special Features: Award winning wine list. Free parking for guests. Happy Hour daily from 4–6pm
- Why It Stands Apart: Dock’s Oyster House blends more than a century of tradition with consistently exceptional seafood, gracious service, and a timeless atmosphere. Its combination of heritage, quality, and genuine hospitality makes it not just a restaurant, but an essential Atlantic City experience.
Scan the Dock's Oyster House Website for Menu and Reservations
Knife & Fork Inn and Ocean Steak: Classic Chops, Local Flavor
For steakhouse lovers, few places build excitement like Knife & Fork Inn and Ocean Steak. Both serve up prime cuts and fresh seafood in settings that make dinner feel special from the moment you walk in.
A century-old landmark, the Knife & Fork Inn blends historic charm with elevated steak and seafood dining in the heart of Atlantic City. Known for its impeccable service and timeless atmosphere, it remains one of the city’s most iconic culinary destinations
- Fare: Classic American steakhouse and seafood
- Best For: Special occasions. Romantic dinners. Celebrations. Upscale nights out. History lovers seeking a storied dining experience
- Signature Dishes: Braised Short Ribs. Pan-Roasted Halibut. Kobe Sliders. Crab Cocktail. Lamb and Ahi Tuna entrées. Classic desserts like crème brûlée and lemon donut balls
- Ambiance: Warm, historic, and elegant with a meticulously restored earl 20th century charm. Romantic and intimate, with a classic steakhouse feel and polished service
- Special Features: Over 100 years of history, originally established in 1912 as an exclusive dining club. Storied Prohibition-era past, frequented by political boss Enoch “Nucky” Johnson
- Why It Stands Apart: Knife & Fork Inn isn’t just a restaurant — it’s an Atlantic City institution. Its combination of century-old architecture, legendary Prohibition-era stories, and consistently top-tier steak and seafood makes it a destination that blends culinary excellence with living history.
Scan the Knife & Fork Inn Website for Menu and Reservations
Ocean Steak delivers a refined surf and turf experience inside the Ocean Casino Resort, blending premium cuts, fresh seafood, and modern coastal style. It’s a vibrant, upscale destination where classic steakhouse indulgence meets Atlantic City energy.
- Fare: Premium steaks, fresh seafood, elevated American classics.
- Best For: Date nights. Celebrations and special occasions. Business dinner.Upscale nights out at the casino. Cocktail forward evenings with friends
- Signature Dishes: Filet Mignon and Bone In Ribeye. Maine Lobster Tail. NJ Diver Scallops. Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice. French Onion Soup with Gruyère. Jumbo Lump Crab Cake with apple slaw
- Ambiance: Warm, vibrant, modern steakhouse atmosphere. Sleek and upscale without feeling stiff. Relaxed, private dining feel with music that enhances the experience.
- Why It Stands Apart: Ocean Steak distinguishes itself by merging a polished, contemporary steakhouse vibe with the excitement of a premier Atlantic City resort. Its combination of premium cuts, standout seafood, a strong cocktail program, and a lively yet refined atmosphere makes it one of the city’s most versatile upscale dining experiences.
Scan the Ocean Steak Website for Menu and Reservations
Both restaurants deliver the gold standard of steakhouse luxury, but with Atlantic City’s unmistakable sense of hospitality and a focus on local flavor.
Council Oak Steak & Seafood: A Modern Take on Surf and Turf
A refined, classic American steakhouse inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Council Oak Steaks & Seafood delivers prime dry aged steaks and impeccably fresh seafood. Its wood fired cooking, elegant design, and elevated service make it one of Atlantic City’s premier fine dining destinations.
- Fare: USDA prime dry aged steaks. locally sourced seafood
- Best For: Romantic dinners. Celebrations and special occasions. Upscale nights out at the casino. Guests seeking premium steakhouse dining with seafood depth
- Signature Dishes: Dry aged bone in New York strip and ribeye. Wagyu meatballs. Scallops, oysters, and tuna tartare. Lobster mac & cheese. Crème brûlée and key lime pie for dessert
- Ambiance: Sophisticated, intimate, and warmly lit. Elegant décor inspired by Seminole heritage. Lounge area with nightly live entertainment and an extensive wine by the glass program
- Special Features: State of the art wood fire grills and Josper coal ovens for signature flavor. Tableside presentations (including caviar service at the fish focused counterpart)
- Why It Stands Apart: Council Oak blends the precision of a premier steakhouse with the freshness of an ocean to table seafood program, all within a luxurious casino setting. Its combination of dry aged beef, expertly sourced seafood, elevated cooking techniques, and a refined atmosphere creates a dining experience that feels both indulgent and distinctly Atlantic City.
Scan the Council Oak Steak & Seafood Website for Menu and Reservations
Sizzling Spots for International Cuisine
Atlantic City’s food scene pulls inspiration from every corner of the globe, bringing vibrant Japanese, Cuban, and Mexican flavors to diners right on the Jersey shore. If you want more than classic boardwalk eats, these standouts bring bold tastes, fresh ingredients, and stunning ambiance together in memorable ways. Here’s where to find the city’s best upscale international dining experiences.
Ossu Asian Tavern: Japanese street food spirit
Ossu Asian Tavern at Tropicana Atlantic City blends Japanese street style energy with a modern fusion menu spanning Japan, China, Korea, and Thailand. Expect bold flavors, creative small plates, and a lively, transportive dining experience steps from the Boardwalk.
- Fare: Japanese-focused Asian fusion
- Best For: Happy hour gatherings. Date nights and small groups. Pre or post casino dining. Guests seeking a fun, immersive, street market vibe
- Signature Dishes: Yakitori skewers, including butabara pork belly. Sushi & sashimi selections, including rainbow rolls. Chili wontons, gyoza, and miso soup. Galbi ribs with rich Korean-style flavor
- Ambiance: Dimly lit, Japanese back alley–inspired interior that feels like stepping into a Tokyo night market. Vibrant, warm, and sensory—aromas, décor, and lighting all designed to immerse diners in an urban Asian tavern experience
- Why It Stands Apart: Ossu Asian Tavern distinguishes itself with its blend of authentic Japanese street food spirit and a broad, pan Asian menu that appeals to adventurous and casual diners alike. Its immersive alley style setting, high quality ingredients, and consistently praised service create a dining experience that feels both transportive and approachable—rare for a casino floor restaurant.
Learn More: Visit New Jersey Leisure Guide review on Ossu Asian Tavern
Nobu and Kuro: Sushi and Small Plates with Style
Nobu, inside Caesars, sets a high bar for modern Japanese cuisine in Atlantic City. The sleek, cosmopolitan decor gives off an immediate sense of luxury, but it’s the food that draws repeat crowds. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature approach fuses traditional Japanese methods with contemporary creativity.
- Fare: Modern Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences
- Best For: Special occasions. Romantic nights out. Food focused travelers. Fans of omakase and elevated Japanese dining. Stylish nights with cocktails and ocean views
- Signature Dishes: Black Cod Miso. Rock Shrimp Tempura with creamy sauce. Sashimi tasting selections. Mirai Japanese Beef. Chef crafted sushi and sashimi
- Ambiance: A sleek, intimate, and modern dining room designed by acclaimed architect David Rockwell, featuring warm lighting, refined Japanese inspired décor, and stunning views overlooking the beach and boardwalk. The atmosphere blends sophistication with a relaxed coastal elegance.
- Special Features: Ocean view bar with signature Nobu cocktails. Located steps from the Nobu Hotel at Caesars Atlantic City
- Why It Stands Apart: Nobu Atlantic City brings Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s iconic global brand to the Jersey Shore, offering a rare combination of world class Japanese cuisine, dramatic oceanfront scenery, and a meticulously crafted dining experience. Its blend of culinary innovation, architectural beauty, and signature Nobu hospitality makes it one of Atlantic City’s most distinguished and memorable restaurants.
Scan the Nobu Website for Menu and Reservations
Over at Kuro, inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the vibe is upbeat and contemporary, perfect for group dinners or date nights. Here, the focus is on sharing modern Japanese small plates, each made with handpicked local and imported ingredients.
Kuro delivers a modern, artisanal take on Japanese dining, blending bold flavors with meticulous craftsmanship. Its robata grill, sushi bar, and premium ingredients create one of Atlantic City’s most elevated culinary experiences.
- Fare: Contemporary Japanese cuisine
- Best For: Date nights and romantic dinners. Food focused travelers seeking refined Japanese cuisine. Groups who enjoy shareable plates. Casino guests looking for a standout dining experience
- Signature Dishes: Robata charcoal grilled skewers.Fresh sushi, sashimi, and hand rolls. A5 Japanese Wagyu beef selections. Crispy tuna and spicy tuna.
- Ambiance: Modern, sophisticated, and serene with a sleek Japanese aesthetic. Open kitchen energy where guests can watch chefs prepare sushi and grill skewers. Upscale yet warm, ideal for lingering over cocktails or shared plates
- Why It Stands Apart: Kuro distinguishes itself through its fusion of traditional Japanese techniques and contemporary artistry, using both locally sourced and directly imported Japanese ingredients. Its robata grill, premium Wagyu, and innovative cocktail program create a dining experience that feels both authentic and cutting edge—earning it recognition as one of Atlantic City’s top hotel restaurants.
Scan the Kuro’s robata grill Website for Menu and Reservations
Both restaurants shine thanks to attentive staff, a focus on the finest ingredients, and a commitment to elevating Japanese fare above the ordinary. Perfect for an indulgent dinner or a special celebration.
Cuba Libre and Pancho’s Mexican Taqueria: Bold, Authentic Tastes
Cuba Libre
Escape to Old Havana at Cuba Libre, where vibrant Cuban flavors meet high energy nightlife in the heart of Atlantic City. This immersive restaurant and rum bar blends award winning cuisine with tropical cocktails, dancing, and vintage 1950s Havana charm.
- Fare: Contemporary and traditional Cuban
- Best For: Couples seeking a lively date night. Groups celebrating birthdays or milestones. Visitors wanting dinner + dancing in one place' Fans of Latin cuisine, mojitos, and nightlife
- Signature Dishes: Classic & contemporary Cuban plates. Popular mojitos in flavors like Classic, Grilled Pineapple, Pomegranate, and Fresh Watermelon. Chef’s Tasting Menu
- Ambiance: A transportive 1950s Havana setting with open air tropical décor, vintage architectural salvage, warm lighting, and upbeat Latin music that shifts from relaxed dining to energetic nightlife as the evening progresses.
- Why It Stands Apart: Cuba Libre isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a full cultural experience. From its meticulously recreated Old Havana architecture to its chef driven Cuban cuisine, live entertainment, and standout rum program, it delivers one of Atlantic City’s most immersive dining and nightlife destinations
Scan the Cuba Libre Website for Menu and Reservations
Pancho’s Mexican Taqueria
Pancho’s Mexican Taqueria is a beloved Atlantic City staple known for its bold, authentic Mexican flavors made fresh right before your eyes. Since 2005, it has earned a loyal following for its handmade tortillas, vibrant dishes, and true taqueria spirit.
- Fare: Authentic Mexican taqueria
- Best For: Casual, flavor packed meals. Food lovers seeking authentic Mexican street style dishes. Families, locals, and tourists looking for a no frills, high quality meal
- Signature Dishes: Tacos al Pastor. Carnitas tacos. Lengua (cow tongue) tacos. Fresh, made to order corn tortillas
- Ambiance: A simple, cozy taqueria with an open kitchen setup where guests can watch tortillas and meats prepared fresh. Expect a casual, welcoming environment with friendly service and a community driven vibe.
- Why It Stands Apart: Pancho’s stands out for its unwavering commitment to authenticity—fresh tortillas, vibrant flavors, and dishes crafted with heart and tradition. Its reputation as one of the best Mexican spots on the East Coast, combined with its loyal fan base and community roots, makes it a must visit in Atlantic City
Scan the Pancho’s Mexican Taqueria Website for Menu and Reservations
Both Cuba Libre and Pancho’s prove that authentic atmosphere and true-to-their-roots cooking can easily rival the city’s priciest venues for pure satisfaction. This is where you’ll discover the spirit of Latin America—served with plenty of spice, music, and nods to tradition.
Casual Classics and Local Favorites
Atlantic City's best-loved restaurants aren't always fancy or hard to find. Sometimes, the most memorable bites come from spots that feel like they're part of local life. These classic joints welcome everyone—families, night owls, and even celebrities—serving up big flavors and signature Jersey energy. If you want to taste the true spirit of the city, there’s no better place to start than at these crowd-pleasers.
White House Subs: An Atlantic City Legend
A legendary Atlantic City institution since 1946, White House Subs is famous for its overstuffed, no nonsense submarine sandwiches. It’s the kind of place where the line out the door tells you everything you need to know.
- Fare: Classic Italian American subs
- Best For: Families looking for a casual, satisfying meal. Beachgoers and boardwalk wanderers. Late night cravings. Anyone seeking an authentic AC food landmark
- Signature Dishes: White House Special – a massive Italian sub stacked with salami, ham, capicola, and provolone. Cheesesteak Sub. Meatball Sub. Tuna Sub
- Ambiance: Old school, bustling, and proudly unpretentious. Expect tight booths, walls lined with celebrity photos, and the constant rhythm of sandwich makers slicing, stacking, and wrapping subs at lightning speed.
- Why It Stands Apart: White House Subs isn’t just a sandwich shop—it’s a cultural icon. Its combination of tradition, consistency, and unapologetically huge, flavor packed subs makes it a must visit stop that captures the real spirit of Atlantic City.
Scan the White House Subs Website for Menu
Gilchrist Restaurant and Hash House A Go Go: Breakfast and Brunch Staples
Nothing brings a community together quite like breakfast. Atlantic City locals know where to go when they want a morning meal that hits the spot.
Gilchrist Restaurant
A beloved Atlantic City institution since 1946, Gilchrist Restaurant serves classic breakfast and lunch with warm, hometown charm. Its waterfront setting and famously fluffy hotcakes make it a must‑visit for locals and visitors alike.
- Fare: Classic American breakfast and lunch
- Best For: Breakfast lovers. Families and casual diners. Visitors seeking a relaxed waterfront mea. Anyone craving hearty, no nonsense comfort food
- Signature Dishes: Famous Blueberry Hotcakes. Crab, Spinach & Cheddar Omelette. Banana Walnut Pancakes. Codfish & Grits.
- Ambiance: Cozy, friendly, and unpretentious. Bright, lively diner energy with a welcoming staff. Beautiful marina and harbor views, especially from the large patio
- Why It Stands Apart: Gilchrist Restaurant blends timeless comfort food with a serene dockside setting, creating a uniquely relaxing Atlantic City experience. Its decades long reputation, signature hotcakes, and genuine hospitality make it a rare spot where tradition, flavor, and local charm come together effortlessly.
Scan the Gilchrist Restaurant Website for Menu
Hash House A Go Go
Hash House A Go Go at Tropicana Atlantic City brings its famous “twisted farm food” to the Boardwalk with oversized portions and bold, playful flavors. It’s a high energy spot where comfort classics meet creative, over the top presentations.
- Fare: American comfort food with a modern, “twisted” farm style spin
- Best For: Families and groups craving big portions. Breakfast lovers and brunch seekers. Casual Boardwalk dining Visitors looking for fun, photo worthy plates
- Signature Dishes: Sage fried chicken & waffles. Brown sugar banana pancakes' Chorizo hash. Biscuits & sausage gravy. Towering burgers and creative Benedicts
- Ambiance: Lively, upbeat, Midwest meet coastal café vibe. Casual, energetic, and family friendly. Playful plating and oversized dishes add to the fun, social atmosphere.
- Why It Stands Apart: Hash House A Go Go stands out for its bold, larger than life approach to comfort food — transforming familiar dishes into towering, whimsical creations that are as fun to look at as they are to eat. Its mix of hearty flavors, generous portions, and a lively Boardwalk setting makes it one of Atlantic City’s most memorable breakfast and brunch destinations.
Scan the Hash House A Go Go Restaurant Website for Menu
Whether you crave pancakes at sunrise or a full feast at brunch, both Gilchrist and Hash House A Go Go serve up comfort and character in equal measure. Here, breakfast isn’t just the most important meal of the day—it’s a celebration.
Atlantic City Restaurants: Final Thoughts
Atlantic City's dining venues are shaped by its changing seasons, lively crowds, and a mix of long-standing favorites with fresh newcomers. Planning where—and when—to eat makes all the difference for anyone hoping to taste the best. From breezy summer nights to quieter off-season evenings, every meal tells its own story.