ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - When it comes to finding the best burgers in Atlantic City, NJ, there are several options worth considering. Atlantic City offers a variety of burger options. Whether you're looking for a luxurious dining experience, award-winning burgers, creative toppings, a British pub vibe, or a casual hangout with live music, there's a burger joint in Atlantic City that will satisfy your cravings.
In a city famous for its casinos and boardwalk, the burger scene often flies under the radar, overshadowed by high-end steakhouses and classic Italian joints. However, Atlantic City offers some serious contenders for the best patty in the state, from bayside taverns to gourmet casino gastropubs.
If you are looking for the perfect bite, here are the five best must-try burgers in Atlantic City, NJ.
1. Vagabond Kitchen & Tap House
Located just over the bridge in the Chelsea Heights section (away from the boardwalk), Vagabond is a local favorite that feels miles away from the casino glitz. It’s a laid-back tap house known for its extensive craft beer list and incredible "sunset views" over the bay.
- The Must-Try: The Spartan Burger. This is an actual "Jersey" burger. It comes topped with pork roll (Taylor Ham, if you insist), American cheese, caramelized onions, and their signature spicy ranch sauce on a brioche bun.
- Why it hits: The salty pork roll adds a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy spicy ranch. It’s messy, indulgent, and best enjoyed on their patio.
2. Broadway Burger Bar
Nestled inside "The Quarter" at the Tropicana, this spot leans into a modern New York theme. It’s one of the few places in a casino that focuses almost exclusively on gourmet burgers, grinding their beef fresh daily.
- The Must-Try: The Madison Square Garden. A barbecue lover’s dream, this patty is stacked with applewood-smoked bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, Cajun onion straws, and BBQ sauce.
- Why it hits: The Cajun onion straws provide a spicy, crispy texture that cuts through the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
3. Back Bay Ale House
For a meal with a view, it’s hard to beat Back Bay Ale House in Historic Gardner's Basin. The vibe here is distinctly "Key West," with large mason jar cocktails and an open-air deck overlooking the boat slips.
- The Must-Try: The Guinness Burger. This 8-oz chargrilled patty is glazed with a homemade Guinness BBQ sauce and topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and a fried onion ring.
- Why it hits: The Guinness glaze gives the meat a rich, malty sweetness that you don't get from standard ketchup or BBQ sauce.
4. Wingcraft Kitchen & Beer Bar
Located inside the Tanger Outlets (near the Convention Center), Wingcraft is a polished gastropub that takes its meat seriously. They use a high-quality, custom-blended burger mix, which locals consistently rate among the best in the city.
- The Must-Try: The Jalapeño Burger. This burger brings the heat with fresh roasted jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and a cooling avocado crema to balance the spice.
- Why it hits: The meat quality here is noticeable—juicy and loosely packed—and the avocado crema prevents the spice from overpowering the beef.
5. Bill’s Bar & Burger
Found inside the Golden Nugget, this casual, "no-frills" burger joint has gained national recognition. It feels like a classic American diner mixed with a beach bar.
- The Must-Try: The Fat Cat. This award-winning burger (once listed as a CNN Top 10 burger) is unique because it’s served on a toasted English muffin. It comes with American cheese, caramelized onions, and special sauce.
- Why it hits: The English muffin is the secret weapon; it holds up to the juices better than a standard bun and adds a nice toasted crunch to every bite.