Dock's Oyster House
Winner of an Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator, Dock's Oyster House has been owned and operated by the Dougherty family since 1897. Although their service is refined in this fine dining establishment, the atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for a special night out, whether you are on a date or have kids in tow. In addition to their extensive raw bar, recent oyster offerings have included those from Wellfleet, Massachusetts; Chesapeake Bay, Maryland; and Narraganset Bay, Rhode Island. With its emphasis on seafood, try some of the specials such as "Beef and Reef" (filet mignon and broiled cold water lobster tail), Dock's Seafood Fry and Cowboy Steak.
Dock's Oyster House
2405 Atlantic Avenue
Atlantic City, NJ
(609) 345-0092
docksoysterhouse.com
Tre Figlio
Given Awards of Excellence by Zagat and Wine Spectator, Tre Figlio has served Italian and European cuisine in casual yet elegant surroundings for over 20 years. A perfect place for a quiet, romantic date, Tre Figlio specializes in pastas, all of which are homemade. Try the Gnocchi Della Casa, a Naples classic with crabmeat, and clams over spaghetti or the lobster ravioli. Additionally, there are veal, chicken, seafood dishes (both the Lobster Francaise and Lobster Venetian are local favorites) as well as a prix fixe menu. Closed on Sundays. Reservations recommended for the weekend.
Tre Figlio Italian Restaurant
500 West White Horse Pike
Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215
(609) 965-3303
trefiglio.com
Sofia
With frescoes on the wall, lion-head fountains and outdoor tables, dining at Sofia is like taking a trip to the Mediterranean. Start with the raw bar or one of the mezethes (Mediterranean dips served with pita bread) such as the taramosalata, a Greek caviar mousse. Move onto the entrees such as the Santorini crab cakes and the seafood plaki with jumbo prawns and fish baked in a terracotta pot. Supportive of local artists, Sofia hosts live music every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Do note that while it is mostly European in fare and atmosphere, Sofia also has its American touches: every Sunday and Monday night is Football Night with drink specials.
Sofia Restaurant
9314 Amherst Avenue
Margate City, NJ 08204
(609) 822-9111
sofiaofmargate.com