Cheat Sheet: Dock’s Oyster House

The Gist: Open since 1897, Dock’s Oyster House has remained at the top of Atlantic City’s restaurants. An absolute must try for seafood and steak lovers; they bring traditional food to a modern audience. Their bar also showcases an ever-changing and impressive wine list, along with custom cocktails.

The Vibe: Warm and charming, Dock’s has undergone three renovations since it’s opening. A light-filled foyer provides a small seating area for waiting guests, as well as a small 15-seat bar with a built in piano, which is located directly behind the hostess stand. They feature live music every night, which can be quite loud during the busy summer services. This atmosphere is very reminiscent of a Irish pub, with dark wood finish and incredibly friendly staff. Behind the bar is a tight-fit 89-seat dining room. The room fills quite quickly, and you can find yourself having a conversation with your neighbor as you enjoy your meal. The summer months are their busiest, with advance reservations being highly recommended.

Eat This: Their raw bar menu is a must try. The chilled shellfish sampler ($33) includes 3 oysters, 3 clams, 2 shrimp, 6 mussels, fresh shrimp ceviche, crabmeat and ½ of a chilled lobster, meant to serve 2 guests. They are most famous for their indulgent scallop special ($28), which places pan-seared scallops over creamy tomato and Parmesan risotto, with a paprika lobster sauce and blanched sugar snap peas. For those who favor steak, the Cowboy steak ($36) is a 26-ounce bone in rib-eye steak, grilled to perfection and served with vegetables and their signature pommes soufflé, which are a delightful take on French fries. All of the desserts are house-made, but the fresh strawberry and rhubarb pie ($7) with vanilla bean gelato and raspberry sauce will leave you satisfied for weeks to come.

Drink This: They have an excellent list of beers (only three are on draft) and wine, including new and local breweries and vineyards. However, my suggestion is to take a chance on one of the many delicious martinis. The pomegranate pear is a fan favorite, but if you are feeling adventurous, just ask the bartender to surprise you. You won’t be disappointed.

Skip This: The grilled jumbo shrimp ($26) is excellently cooked, but there are far better options than shrimp served with a well-dressed arugula salad.

For Fans Of: Knife and Fork Inn, Fin, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Old Homestead

The Damage: You can most likely enjoy an appetizer, entrée and drink for between $40-$60, depending on your preferences. The portions are generous, reflecting their traditional style. If you’re looking to save a little, go during Atlantic City’s Restaurant Week to enjoy a three-course meal for $33!

The Verdict: A historical Atlantic City staple, Dock’s Oyster House has definitely earned their reputation and withstood the test of time. While this upscale fine dining establishment is not well suited for young children, they are flexible and willing to accommodate with portion sizes and other concerns. The owners operate two other popular restaurants, the famous Knife and Fork Inn and the recently renovated Harry’s Oyster Bar. All three restaurants are incredibly popular dining destinations in Atlantic City, but Dock’s possesses that old-world charm that encourages customers to come back year after year.

Dock’s Oyster House, 2405 Atlantic Ave; 609-345-0092