Seafood is everywhere in Atlantic City. You’ll find it in buffets, boardwalk shacks, and even slot machine lounges. But maybe the most common is the classic seafood dinner. Still, not all of them are worth the $30 (minimum) you’re about to spend. So, whether you’ve been chasing the perfect lobster roll for years or want to dip your toe into the ocean’s bounty, here are the best places to get seafood in Atlantic City.
Barbera Seafood
$ | (609) 345-0671 | WEBSITE
The seafood-starved across Atlantic City breathed a collective sigh of relief when Barbera Seafood returned after a brief winter closure. The local establishment on the boardwalk is a consistently line-worthy standby for seafood in all its forms—yes, the golden-brown fried flounder sandwiches with crispy edges are fresh, flavorful, and bar-setting, but you’re also here for jumbo crab meat that could single-handedly convince someone to move to the shore (or at least extend their vacation).
Linguini By The Sea
$$$ | (609) 783-8000 | WEBSITE
At Linguini By The Sea, you’re likely to overhear regulars swapping casino or beach recommendations while you savor a pasta al forno that’s baked until golden perfection. Once you’ve settled into the lively rhythm, explore the rest of the seafood offerings with platters, fish cooked just right, and salads, plus that popular burrata. The servers like Fai and Chris keep things warm and welcoming, though during peak times the pace can lag a bit.
Still, with garlic bread that’s crisp and buttery, and a wine list that stretches on, it’s easy to see why folks return for that fresh-from-the-ocean taste in every bite.
Morton’s The Steakhouse
$$$$ | (609) 449-1044 | WEBSITE
Morton’s 8 oz filet is perfect for anyone who hasn’t quite fully committed to a larger steak or prefers their portion a bit more manageable. There’s just enough richness to let you know it’s premium. Light on the seasoning, the version from this Atlantic City steakhouse avoids the danger of overwhelming the natural flavor.
Grab a seat at one of the beautifully set tables and enjoy a rare moment of celebration, or when the occasion calls for it, indulge in the chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream.
Dock’s Oyster House
$$$ | (609) 345-0092 | WEBSITE
Even the most particular seafood lover in your life will be happy at Dock’s. Their oyster selection is impressively versatile—enjoy them raw, Rockefeller style, or fried with Parmigiano, and, unlike many spots on this list, upgrade to a full seafood feast. All the options make ordering here exciting, but we love this Atlantic City institution for their crab cakes with just the right amount of seasoning.
Chart House
$$$ | (609) 340-5030 | WEBSITE
Chart House’s blackened mahi mahi should be enshrined in culinary archives as the definitive standard. (Seafood scripture? Forgive me.) It balances the line between spicy and delicate and is easy to devour, though you’ll want to take smaller bites to make the plate last. At their Atlantic City location, they also have Chilean sea bass available, in case you want something a little less bold.
Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen
$$$$ | (609) 317-2110 | WEBSITE
By day, this Atlantic City spot is all about the lively bar scene before transforming into an elegant seafood restaurant at night. Slide into one of the sleek booths and order the scallops that are cooked to perfection with a sear we’d eat straight from the pan. It’s the ideal savory dish for a special occasion, especially if you’ve spent the afternoon strolling the nearby boardwalk (metaphorically, of course).
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks
$$$ | (609) 441-5579 | WEBSITE
Seafood purists should make a reservation at McCormick & Schmick’s immediately. The restaurant on Atlantic City’s dining scene doesn’t try anything overly complicated. The just-broiled scallops and Chilean Sea Bass with no heavy sauces are fresh, flavorful, and the perfect companion meal for a special occasion dinner at one of the well-spaced tables.
Knife and Fork Inn
$$$ | (609) 344-1133 | WEBSITE
Stepping into the landmarked building from 1912 feels like entering a piece of Atlantic City history, an experience we highly recommend, especially if said history comes with Chef Nick Devine’s culinary genius. We love the braised short ribs with carrots, mushrooms, bacon, and red wine for a hit of richness and depth. Go for the pan-roasted halibut as a close second, or stake out a reservation well in advance due to their popularity.
Platters Seafood & Soul Food
$$ | (609) 300-5974 | WEBSITE
Platters Seafood & Soul Food is one of our favorite places to get soul food in Atlantic City, but their seafood—all four signature dishes—shouldn’t be overlooked. We always stay classic and get the fried shrimp that’s just perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection. For a richer option, try the salmon with sautéed shrimp that’s heartier and made with extra love (obviously).
Il Mulino New York – Atlantic City
$$$ | (609) 449-6006 | WEBSITE
Italian fine dining, special occasion destination, Atlantic City institution—Il Mulino wears many hats, but above all, it’s a temple of velvety lobster ravioli. The move is to start with their famous baked clams or the complimentary Parmesan cheese wheel and salami platter that arrives like a warm welcome. For a complete experience, try the $54 prix fixe menu with appetizer, entrée, and dessert—a relative steal in this lavish setting.
The atmosphere is beautifully lively, perfect for birthdays or celebrations, with attentive service that never feels rushed. While some dishes might not reach extraordinary heights, and the $18 cocktails can sting, the overall experience makes it a worthwhile visit. Just book ahead and arrive early to secure that prix fixe dinner.
