What can we say about Atlantic City? It has a boardwalk we’re all allowed to stroll, yet we’re never quite sure where the real action begins. Beyond that, its defining feature is how many of you find yourselves craving classic American fare here, likely because it’s a glorious compromise between Vegas glitz and Jersey Shore charm.
American Bar & Grille
$$$ | (609) 317-1000 | WEBSITE
Most people only think to visit American Bar & Grille for dinner, which makes sense because this is a restaurant that feels like an intimate, warm escape. The intimate, warm escape actually lasts all evening, and you can also stop by for a casual lunch in the afternoon. The swordfish here is fine, but coming here is more about the experience of it. And the drinks.
AC Burger Co.
$$ | (609) 441-5800 | WEBSITE
Want to grab a burger in Atlantic City, but don’t want to leave the casino? AC Burger Co. is basically the casino’s casual dining spot, a convenient little place that serves burgers and drinks. You can use it while you’re taking a break from the tables, but it’s also useful when you need a quick meal before heading out. If it’s one of those times where you’re not looking for a fancy dinner, but also know you’ll get hungry if you don’t get some food in you, AC Burger Co. is perfect.
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks
$$$ | (609) 441-5579 | WEBSITE
We recommend McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks to friends constantly – not because it’s the finest dining, but because it’s one of the most reliably satisfying spots. It’s not cheap, but it’s reasonably priced for the quality, it works for everything from a birthday celebration to a weeknight dinner, it’s well-situated, you can usually snag a reservation, and the seafood and steaks are consistently good.
McCormick & Schmick’s isn’t valedictorian, but that student who hosted a few great gatherings and everyone agreed, “Yeah, they know how to do it”? Exactly.
Maria’s Luncheonette
$ | (609) 347-9300 | WEBSITE
Maria’s Luncheonette is a spot your neighbor just visited and calls “super charming.” She had the complete breakfast! And French toast! Maria’s isn’t the most groundbreaking restaurant around, and it kind of feels like it could be a classic diner in any small town, but it’s friendly, reliable, and everything is delicious.
Broadway Burger Bar
$$ | (609) 317-4660 | WEBSITE
Broadway Burger Bar is Atlantic City’s slightly more classic, though still casual and reasonably priced burger joint. The burgers are quality enough that you can get away with ordering a straightforward cheeseburger, and the space is nice enough to be suitable for a relaxed family meal. The counter seating is also a good spot to dine solo, with the courteous staff making you feel welcome as you enjoy those perfectly cooked, juicy patties and tasty fries.
Michael Patrick’s Brasserie
$$ | (609) 441-2815 | WEBSITE
Your go-to American spot near the water. The steak and cheesecake are solid here, and the atmosphere is quiet and peaceful as well. It’s nothing extraordinary, but it’s not a total disappointment either.
Chart House
$$$ | (609) 340-5030 | WEBSITE
Chart House locations are now located all over Atlantic City, but the one on the marina is the original. It’s a fairly large space, and a good place to post up, meet someone for a special occasion, or grab some high-quality fish dishes. The window seating offers spectacular views of the marina, perfect for birthdays and anniversaries, with thoughtful touches like personalized menus and complimentary cake.
Servers like Keith and Tommy provide attentive service, going above and beyond to ensure a great experience. While the music on Fridays can be loud, the overall atmosphere remains inviting, and the restaurant offers a good price point compared to other prime Atlantic City spots. Occasionally, during busy times, the food can be overcooked or service may be slower, but the staff often makes efforts to make up for it.
Despite these minor issues, many guests consider Chart House Atlantic City their go-to place when in town.
Tony Boloney’s Atlantic City
$ | (609) 344-8669 | WEBSITE
Tony Boloney’s is kind of like your favorite college pizza joint: reliably delicious, unpretentiously cozy, universally satisfying. Probably gets voted best late-night slice every year. Tony Boloney’s serving up that ‘Fuckin Gindolune’ pizza is the best thing to happen to Atlantic City’s casual dining scene since pretty much ever.
Old Homestead Steak House
$$$$ | (609) 317-7723 | WEBSITE
People often ask us about steakhouses, as if Atlantic City is overflowing with amazing American restaurants on every corner. In reality, there are only a few greats, and Old Homestead Steak House is the best of them. The menu is a mix of classic and more impressive cuts, and pretty much all of them are good. The NY sirloin with Brussels sprouts, the 44 oz Porterhouse, the rib eye, and the chicken parmesan should definitely be part of your order.
Dave & Buster’s Atlantic City
$$ | (609) 572-8100 | WEBSITE
Simply put, Dave & Buster’s Atlantic City is a lively arcade spot with decent bar food. It’s a fun, laughter-filled place you find in a lot of family venues, except more enjoyable than most. Playing games is also part of the deal here.
Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House
$$ | (609) 350-6721 | WEBSITE
No, Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House is not the name of a new travel-themed cooking show, though we would entirely back that if the chefs wanted to start such a thing. Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House is a restaurant that’s as pleasant and varied as they come. You can come here for craft beers and appetizers, but Vagabond is particularly known for its very good Goat Cheese Burger.
Celebrity Corner
$$ | (609) 345-6633 | WEBSITE
If you spend any time near the Tropicana in Atlantic City, your morning will change significantly for the better once Celebrity Corner becomes a part of it. This small, beachy spot has a fantastic AC-style tuna sub and solid breakfast options, and we all know what happens when you put those things together with friendly service. There’s a relaxed vibe here with jassy music, so this is strictly a casual, affordable meal situation.
Hash House A Go Go
$$ | (609) 340-4639 | WEBSITE
A straightforward, satisfying spot, Hash House A Go Go delivers reliable, generously portioned breakfast classics and is a solid choice for a hungry group that’s thinking, “Hmm… anyone know somewhere hearty and reasonably priced the bunch of us can hit up this morning?” If you’ve tried similar bustling brunch spots in Atlantic City, Hash House A Go Go fits right in with that lively, spacious vibe, offering much the same dependable, flavorful experience as the others.
The Deck Bayfront Bar & Restaurant
$$ | (609) 441-2000 | WEBSITE
The Deck Bayfront Bar & Restaurant is the first spot many people think of when it comes to Atlantic City’s bayfront, and that’s probably because it’s right on the water, with views of the marina and the boardwalk. We may not be able to control the weather, but we can (if we arrive early) grab a seat under the cover, and we’re pretty sure that’s a lot better.
Enjoying the live cover bands here is a great way to spend a lively evening, and the drink options, from beer to cocktails, are pretty fantastic here too.
