Atlantic City is more than its dazzling casinos and sandy shoreline. It’s also a culinary hotspot where award-winning chefs, hidden gems, and historic landmarks offer unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for fine Italian fare, a chef-driven tasting menu, or classic surf-and-turf with oceanfront views, this city caters to every palate — all with its signature Atlantic charm.
Here’s your curated guide to the top must-try restaurants in Atlantic City — a mix of iconic institutions, modern marvels, and neighborhood favorites.
1. Angeline at The Borgata
Angeline is the first fully Italian restaurant by celebrity chef and Iron Chef winner Michael Symon. It pays homage to his mother, with a soulful menu featuring housemade pastas, arancini, chicken Parm, and a signature lasagna made from her recipe. The ambiance is both modern and warm, with an elegant wine list that rounds out the experience.
📍 The Borgata, 1 Borgata Way
2. Café 2825
Tucked away from the glitz of the casinos, Café 2825 delivers old-school Italian charm with tableside mozzarella preparation and cacio e pepe served straight from a Pecorino wheel. It’s an intimate space with just 52 seats and decades of family tradition in every bite.
📍 2825 Atlantic Avenue
3. Cardinal
Chef Michael Brennan’s comeback spot, Cardinal, offers a refined yet approachable dining experience. Signature dishes like duck wings with peppery hoisin and artful entrées show off his creative, upscale twist on comfort food. A hidden gem for those who appreciate culinary artistry.
📍 201 S. New York Avenue
4. Chef Vola’s
Operating since 1921 and famously discreet, Chef Vola’s serves homey Italian classics like bone-in veal Parmesan and shrimp fettuccini in a cozy basement setting. It’s BYO, cash-only, and reservation recommended — an intimate experience for true food lovers.
📍 111 South Albion Place
5. Council Oak Steaks & Seafood
Located in the Hard Rock Hotel, this upscale steak and seafood house boasts panoramic views and a raw bar that’s among the best on the Shore. From wood-fired lobster to tableside caviar, it’s fine dining at its most indulgent.
📍 1000 Boardwalk
6. Dock’s Oyster House
An Atlantic City icon since 1897, Dock’s is a family-owned seafood institution known for its fresh raw bar, rotating oyster selections, and timeless charm. Recently renovated, it remains a local favorite for refined, ocean-forward cuisine.
📍 2405 Atlantic Avenue
7. Girasole
Girasole has brought understated elegance to the Atlantic City scene since 1992. Sunflower-themed interiors and a menu filled with handmade pastas, baked calamari, and traditional Italian sausage make this a sophisticated choice for date night or special occasions.
📍 3108 Pacific Avenue
8. Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill
For a British twist on Boardwalk dining, Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant at Caesars offers traditional pub fare with flair. Think beef Wellington, shepherd’s pie, and over two dozen beers on tap — all within an upscale setting.
📍 2100 Pacific Avenue
9. Knife & Fork Inn
This historic steakhouse first opened as a private club in 1912. Today, it serves prime steaks, seafood, and classic sides in a stately, club-like environment. It’s one of Atlantic City’s most storied and elegant dining destinations.
📍 3600 Atlantic Avenue
10. Ocean Steak
Inside the Ocean Casino Resort, Ocean Steak offers high-end surf-and-turf with standout dishes like the Jersey corn-purée scallops and the tomahawk steak for two, topped with shrimp scampi. It’s sophisticated, sleek, and perfect for special evenings.
📍 500 Boardwalk
11. Pancho’s Mexican Taqueria
Just steps from the famous White House Subs, Pancho’s is a hidden taqueria gem serving handmade tortillas and tacos cooked right before your eyes. Family-run and full of heart, it’s perfect for casual, flavor-forward dining.
📍 2303 Arctic Avenue
12. Park Place Prime
On the 6th floor of Bally’s, Park Place Prime delivers perfectly cooked steaks, an impressive seafood selection, and breathtaking views of the ocean and casino lights. Make sure to reserve a seat in the main dining room for the full experience.
📍 Bally’s, 1900 Pacific Avenue
A Lifestyle That Starts with Taste
The restaurants of Atlantic City offer more than a night out — they’re part of the lifestyle. Living near the Jersey Shore means never being far from incredible food, vibrant culture, and ocean breezes. If you're considering a second home, investment property, or full-time luxury living along the coast, now is the perfect time to make your move.
Live near the best Atlantic City has to offer.
Explore coastal homes, luxury condos, and elegant retreats just steps away from AC’s top dining spots. Contact Sean Elstone today to begin your journey toward living where others vacation!
Photo Credits: Christopher Villano
