Sure, Atlantic City is known for casinos, boardwalks, and maybe even those saltwater taffy shops. But for years, locals—and visiting fans—have been cheering for another local tradition: sports bars with serious game-day grub. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned regular or just passing through—this list is for you. We hit 7 top spots, sampled wings and brews, and ranked them.
Dave & Buster’s Atlantic City
$$ | (609) 572-8100 | WEBSITE
While the arcade games here can be a bit on the sparse side and the noise level may not always be ideal for conversation, features like the kid-friendly atmosphere and convenient parking across the street are solid. Plus this spot is right in the heart of Atlantic City with a lively vibe, arcade energy, and helpful staff like server ‘Bestie’—so you can turn a family outing into a fun-filled adventure.
Vanguard bar &gril
Our top Atlantic City sports bar happens to be this sophisticated NYC-inspired spot. Visiting Vanguard Bar & Grill feels like a special occasion—a destination in its own right, rivaling all those other generic venues that don’t have any delicious salads or entrees at all.
While this is an upscale restaurant with beautiful spacious decor, the steak et frites tastes just as good when enjoyed in the elegant dining room while sipping a cocktail and appreciating the friendly, attentive service from staff like Miguel, Sophie, and John.
Wonder Bar
$$ | (609) 344-8888 | WEBSITE
While Wonder Bar is known as a sports bar, the waterfront location offers a surprisingly pleasant dining experience. This Atlantic City spot is one of the more scenic sports bars we’ve visited. It’s spacious with great views of the water both indoors and out, and you can hear the waves from the patio—which we love, but might be distracting during big games. The atmosphere is amazing, with comfortable seating and an engaging vibe that makes you want to stay awhile.
Hooters
$$ | (609) 449-1500 | WEBSITE
We think the folks who decided to put a Hooters right in Atlantic City deserve a nod. While this sports bar isn’t anything extraordinary, it’s still one of the greatest game-day spots we know. Enjoy some delicious chicken wings with various sauces and a quiet, well-kept ambiance before settling in to watch the action. And if a few extra wings just so happen to disappear from your plate during an exciting play, then so be it—things happen.
Chickie’s & Pete’s
$$ | (609) 344-1080 | WEBSITE
This spot inside the Tropicana has a massive space (honestly you could host a whole sports team party in here), but it’s just a little too convenient and predictable for our taste. It’s so convenient that the place doesn’t even feel like a proper late-night dive. Plus, the fried shrimp are small and confusing. We’ll come back when enough crab fries have been devoured that we can wear the scent of the restaurant as a cologne.
Applebee’s Grill + Bar
$$ | (609) 345-7323 | WEBSITE
The experience at all Applebee’s is basically the same, but sometimes you come across a location that seems to put a little extra care into everything. Here at this Atlantic City spot, the boneless buffalo wings are just a bit more flavorful, the triple chocolate meltdown is extra decadent, and even the drinks taste like they have a splash more spirit. It’s no wonder you can usually find a steady crowd of people enjoying their classic sports bar dinner.
A’Dam Good Sports Bar & Grill
$$ | (609) 347-7770 | WEBSITE
This A’Dam Good Sports Bar & Grill in Atlantic City is a two-story sports bar, but it’s situated in what we’d accurately call a “sports viewing oasis.” It’s the go-to spot for nearby fans who need a $7 40oz beer on ice, decent chicken wings, trivia night—or more realistically, all three.
