Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Atlantic City

One of the most popular restaurants in Atlantic City, and rightly so. Opened in 1897 by "Dock" Dougherty, Dock's has been family-run for three generations and still serves up some of the best steaks and seafood around. An extensive list of fresh oysters from all over the globe is complemented by hearty entrées such as Rack of Lamb and Crab Meat au Gratin. A comprehensive wine list of classic and esoteric varietals and blends allows you to choose the perfect accompaniment to your meal. Open everyday from 5pm until closing.

Since 1935 Angelo's has been offering locals and tourists hearty, home-style Italian cuisine. Family owned and operated for three generations, the bar is designed to look like an Italian alleyway, balconies and all. The menu is full of Italian classics like Veal Florentine and Linguine with Clams, as well as a large selection of seafood specialties and steaks. Their wine list blends the best of Italian and Californian vintages, and don't miss dessert: there are Italian gelati as well as American classics like carrot and cheesecake.

For a casual and fun dining experience The Irish Pub does not disappoint. Thanks to a menu of reasonably priced and delicious pub food, the restaurant was once named "Best Cheap Eats" by the Atlantic City Magazine. Dishes like Fish and Chips combined with traditional Irish music and free flowing beer make for a jolly good time. After a night of eating and drinking, walk right up the stairs and settle into one of the rooms available for rent above the bar.

The Deck Bayfront Bar & Restaurant is exactly what its name implies. A huge deck on the bay side with a good sized stage for live performers and a big bar. It's a popular summer hangout, since it's only open May through September and you can typically find people of all ages who come here to bask in the sun while enjoying a meal or cocktail. A big table outside is provided for outdoor eating and on weekends, live bands play in the afternoons and evenings.

Diners at the red roof-topped Knife & Fork agree that eating here is a treat, even more so than at many restaurants on the Boardwalk. Regardless, the elegant decor, the friendly, efficient service, and the romantic atmosphere indicate that a pleasurable experience is in store. For starters, whet your appetite on the pleasing Cornmeal Crusted Calamari drizzled in roasted pepper aioli. For the main course, reward yourself and order the delectable Stuffed Veal Chop or the Whole Lobster. One caveat: sometimes the restaurant can get noisy, so request a more private dining table if necessary.

Since World War II, this sub shop has been a favorite sandwich joint for locals. It may be just a little place, but it is filled with character and history. A whole sandwich is 3 feet long and the rolls are baked fresh everyday, from Formica Brothers Bakery (just across the street). These sandwich artists really know what they are doing—just order the White House Special and you'll see what all the rave is about.