I arrived for dinner last evening around 6 pm. I was greeted by the bar staff as soon as I entered. Followed by a welcome from the Executive Chef and Owner Michael Brennan. I opted to sit near the bar at a low table. In seconds my table was surrounded by the team, my server, the bartender and the owner, making me feel welcome and insuring I was comfortable. I was presented with multiple menus, all updated for the season, I selected the That Dill Though, it was there in two minutes, a tall glass with ice, vodka, dill syrup, lemon, Granny Smith apple, and prosecco, garnished with fresh dill. It was cool, refreshing and delicious. I discovered a lot of new items with creative flair and sounding amazing. I selected from the Prix Fixe menu. This is a new feature that includes an appetizer, main and dessert at a great cost saving price with various options. My appetizer was a Caesar salad, it included a generous portion of fresh crisp hearts of romaine, preserved lemon, parmesan, onion jam, croutons and just the right amount of house made creamy Caesar dressing. Together the flavors are an outstanding, the preserved lemon pieces offer a fresh pop and contrast with the onion jam. This is absolutely a must have, just writing about it is making me crave it again. My main was the Jail Island Salmon. It was beautiful and delicious. The Salmon is delectable the skin is perfectly seasoned and crispy, look at the photo how moist flaky and executed perfectly, It is perched atop wonderful butternut squash and chilled farro with apple and fresh parsley. This was without a doubt the best salmon I ever had. For dessert I enjoyed the house made cheesecake, it was so creamy, served with fresh strawberry slices blueberries and a fresh whipped cream a light dusting of powdered sugar and a mint leaf this was decadent, a very rich soufflé style, simply spectacular. My server was Manuel, very friendly professional and attentive. The entire staff checked on me, frequently including the Chef Michael who stopped at my table after every course was delivered. The restaurant is decorated nicely for the holiday with a great sound system playing excellent music. This was such a wonderful dinner that when I was leaving I opted to walk the beautiful grounds even though is was raining, just to prolong this exquisite culinary journey! This place is worthy of a visit when in Atlantic City. It's steps off the world famous Atlantic City boardwalk between Ballys and Resorts casinos on New York Avenue. read more

Good, good, good, good, good. I would give it 4.5 stars but that's not a thing so I gave it 4 stars and 5 goods. The girls picked this place, I just wanted to eat but I'm glad they did. It was a bit tricky getting into this place because maps told us to go to the backside of the restaurant and there was no entrance there but there were signs saying go here for this and go there for that but we figured it out, obviously. Soon as we walk in they seat us. There are a few others dining but it's not packed. There's a lively group sitting behind us and that's fine because it's daytime and it's meant to be lively. The setup was such that there was a constant draft. I don't really like drafts where I eat because too much can blow through and the food cools down faster but it wasn't that bad but it is why I didn't give it 5 stars. It was a little chilly that day also so that didn't help. It wasn't cool enough that we needed a jacket on but with the draft, maybe we should've put them on but who wants to eat with a jacket on? I ordered the chicken and waffle but substituted for french toast. The french toast was so good that there was no reason for syrup at all. The french toast was cooked perfectly and wasn't dry and already sweet so you didn't need syrup to make it sweet or to soften it up. It was perfect as it was and the eggs were light and fluffy. What does that even mean? Light and fluffy eggs? I heard that somewhere so I repeated it, lol but if I knew what that meant, I'm sure I would say these were that. Regardless, they were good. I love eggs! Please try this place. You will not be disappointed. read more

Cardinal - Was chicken & waffle but I wanted French toast so... - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

See all

We made dinner resy before a show at the Hard Rock and were seated immediately. It did take us a minute to figure out the entrance too. We came from St James street and that was the backside...our server Michelle was great. Hubby enjoyed the duck wings and chicken sandwich while I enjoyed the shaved brussel sprouts salad and cauliflower steak. I'm always excited for excellent vegetarian options. Hubby had two beers and I had glass of wine. All of that totaled $110 which was a great value. I would recommend them for food, service and vibes. Huge outdoor space too so I imagine fun summer vibes too. Give them a try! read more

See all

Way below mid food. Worse service. The employees are frustrated. Felt like we forced a neighbor to make us dinner and drinks for free, at their house while they were in the middle of a huge family fight. I paid and tipped for the most unpleasant dining experience in our lives. Comically bad! The host was miserable. Our waiter was miserable. The bartenders were miserable. The female bartender 5/15/26 should never be allowed to tend a bar anywhere ever again. And the Asian guy bartender was somehow worse. Not another penny to this dump. read more

Just off the boardwalk and super easy to find , Cardinal AC has that effortlessly cool vibe that pulls you right in. I only stopped for a drink, but honestly could've stayed for hours. The bartender had a chill hipster energy and nailed the drink recommendations. That Dill Though was perfection -- refreshing, balanced, and just the right amount of unique. Definitely worth a stop whether you're looking for a great cocktail or just a cool spot to take in the scene. read more

Cardinal - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

I had dinner here for the first time with two girlfriends Friday 10.17.25 6pm. Patrick took excellent care of us (I think I got that right). The outdoor set up is really nice. I wish I had come here in the summer. Dinner inside was great. I wish I heard what the bread service was but the song playing was loud and the girl dropping it off was softer spoken. I believe it was a cranberry walnut bread with a whipped ricotta that maybe had a jammy roasted green grape tomato on top. I loved my avocado fries. The table ordered avocado fries, garden salad, caesar salad, cheeseburger, cauliflower steak, ny strip, flourless chocolate cake, basque cheesecake, and a couple of rounds of wine. I loved my avocado fries. My Tempranillo was tasty, decent pour size, in a pretty crystal glass. Recommend. read more

See all

My dish was amazing and the duck wings were tasty as well. I'd really like to highlight how awesome the service was. It was super easy to reserve. They kept up the surprise. Everything was simply amazing and perfect. The restaurant is massive and has great options for large parties which made my planning easier lol. It's very clean and the bathrooms are super clean as well. Thank you guys for making my mothers birthday dinner phenomenal! read more

Cardinal - Salmon Caesar salad - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

See all

The service was stretched it appeared. The server was good, but the wait time for drinks and food was a bit much. The apps came out quickly, but our drinks and main food were very much delayed. When it did arrive, the food was delicious. The smash burger was everything it should be, crispy, fresh, flavorful with mustard and ketchup. The scallops were cooked to the right temp with the perfect side. The halibut was crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. The flavor was right and the freshness was undeniable. If they get the service right, it can be a great place to nosh in AC. read more

See all

Went here last night for my high school reunion. Never been before but it was fantastic. The food and drinks were great and well priced. Th overall vibe was relaxed but still felt like you were out and about. What really stood out was the service. Our server for the night was Meredith and she went above and beyond to make our night perfect. We were a group of about 25 and she remembered everyone's names and drinks. I was so impressed and I will be returning specifically because she made our night. Highlybrecommen read more

So I'd heard about Cardinal. It's a great unique and recent addition to the awesome mix of great restaurants in AC. I decided to try it on a Sunday winter morning at the start of the year. The weather may not have been great, but the Cardinal experience certainly was. The vibe as soon as you pull up is cool and different. You walk in and that is reinforced with a unique decor that features the iconic Cardinal, but also plays on the rich history of AC. Food was amazing. I had the chicken and waffles - which was fabulous, along with the brussel sprouts and oysters for apps. Brussel sprouts - amazing. Griled oysters - the only thing that I had that was good but not great. Not their fault, I am just a fan of the way NOLA does grilled oysters vs here.. Our server was awesome, helping to suggest great choices after he learned we were first timers. I later learned that he was the owner, which made me even a bigger fan b/c we were treated wonderfully, including a special momento to take with us to remember Cardinal. Food, awesome, vibe and decor 10/10. I look forward to coming back, for the vibe, for the food and for the great cocktails available from the bar. Also will be a great place to hang outside, as they have a great outside setup for those that prefer the open air or want the full beach bar experience. read more

See all

Really cute bar restaurant. They have a great happy hour with a large assortment of appetizers. Friendly and welcoming staff. I look forward to visiting again in warmer weather. read more

Brian mixed some excellent drinks and our food was delicious. They offer upscale flavors and ingredients that worked to make us happy! Glad we found this place. read more

Cardinal - Knights of Ni! Love Monty Python nod. - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

See all

The New York Strip Steak was cooked to perfection! The sauce with the steak was delicious! The staff was friendly and attentive. Location is easy walking distance of the resorts on the northern part of the boardwalk. A bit pricey but well worth. Will definitely be going back next time we are in Atlantic City. read more

The staff was very helpfu and quick to accommodate us. The buffet was a lot smaller than expected. The prime Rib was dry and the bagels didn't seem fresh. We were very surprised after asking for coffee we were given a small pitcher each at $5.00 a piece. Usually beverages at a brunch are included. I can't say I'd go back. read more

Love it here. Food is always amazing. Ambience and staffs are wonderful . Although I might ask them to under cook the scallops a little bit next time. It's our fault, we forgot to ask. Our medium steak was perfect! read more

See all

Get away from the casinos. Get off the boardwalk. This is a gem of a restaurant that hits every note. From the moment you walk in, the host is inviting and friendly. The bar area is hip and cool. The restaurant is cool and industrial. The service was excellent. All this and I haven't mentioned the food. Started with crispy broccoli and it was perfect. Then came the halibut with crab and the salmon. Some of the best fish I've ever had. We didn't have any drinks but they looked amazing as well. There's also a very cool outside area. We'll be back. read more

Awesome experience!! happy hour specials are perfect too! I Sat at the bar and had the kindest service from the staff, especially the bartenders Manuel and Brian! I even chuckled at the receipt because Brian went out of his way to make the exact drink I wanted. 10 out of 10 recommend I will come here every time. I'm in Atlantic City great food, great drinks, Great location and close to the boardwalk! read more

Cardinal - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

Hospitality, Seth, was superb. Friendly and inviting. Well versed in the menu. Ordered and provided extras to our meal gratis. Menu was eclectic and stimulating. And the dishes are wonderfully fresh and superbly well balanced. Just a really delicious meal and experience. read more

I'm obsessed with this late night happy hour!! Every time I'm in AC I stop by. The food is fantastic and very reasonably priced. I forget his name, but one of the bartenders is the best. He made me the best Vodka Punch i have ever had. I love it here, and I'm looking forward to the next time I can go. PS: I'd literally start a petition to bring back the fish and chips lol. They were my favorite!! read more

See all

If you're looking for a place in Atlantic City that offers a DAILY happy hour at 2 different times of the day, then look no further because Cardinal is that place! it's from 4-6 & 9-11pm each day they're open. They're located in the Orange Loop which is one of the areas I've been visiting on the regular because it shares a parking lot with MPX, so IYKYK! Shoutout to Meredith for providing on point service at the bar & my compliments to the chef for feeding me & my babe! I'll definitely be back for those $1 oysters & to try some cocktails! Raw Oysters were very fresh & I liked the vinaigrette that came with them, but the dressed oysters were just okay. Still worth trying though! Fried Brussels Sprouts - extremely flavorful, but very tasty and $6. Korean Fried Chicken Wings - not as crispy as other KFC wings I've had, & a smaller portion than I expected for $7 but were still tasty. Croquette - some of the whipped ricotta was a little funky for me but the croquettes themselves were very nice for $6. Crispy Chicken Sandwich - very tasty with the red onion jam & pickles & the chicken was perfectly crispy but juicy inside! For $14 it also came with fries that were a great addition to the dish. read more

See all

Love Michael... his food...his generosity of spirit and he serves the best Burger... Duck wings...Brussels sprout salad this side of heaven! Sorry, i forget to take pics before I eat... but trust me it looks as good as it tastes. Service always comes with a smile and a lot of care. And, how can this warm space be anymore inviting, when Cardinals are present. Everyone knows how important they are to any space... bringing messages of peace and joy. read more

Eating and drinking can turn an ordinary day into an unforgettable experience. Especially on a first date!!Amazing food and drinks created moments of joy, connection, and pleasure. We sat at the bar and had drinks,apps and main courses. The salmon and oysters are excellent!!They were very fresh... The cocktails played a crucial role in the dining experience as well. The skilled bartenders made every drink to perfection and gave there suggestions. The great atmosphere also made a huge difference when enjoying food and drinks with a smart gorgeous date. The service was fabulous . Overall the experience was awesome and will go back when i'm in AC again. read more

I'm obsessed! Our group was supposed to go to another restaurant, but because that one was full we decided to go to Cardinal instead and this place blew me out of the water. Truly these "finer" dining places outside in New York City are equally as good with better prices as well. We were seated immediately and glad they were open later into the night. - Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad - After days of eating "brown" food, this was a much appreciated meal. The salad was fairly standard although I did appreciate the craisins in there. The portion sizes were huge and I could eat it in 2 meals. - Chef's Seasonal Soup (Butternut Squash) - I thought the soup was okay, but I really appreciate the once again huge portions of Cardinal. Honestly, this soup could just be my dinner and I would be happy and full. - Flourless Chocolate Cake - I was obsessed with this cake. I feel like this is one of the best chocolate cakes I've ever had! Even though it is on the sweeter side, I really appreciated the truffle like flavors and texture as well as the refreshing strawberries sitting on the side. Because of its richness, two people could comfortably share this cake. Overall, fantastic flavors and portions and Cardinals. I will definitely be back next time I'm in Atlantic City. read more

See all

New spot, less than a year old. It's a nice addition to the AC landscape. I describe it as a gastropub due to the inspired menu, and the artisanal craft cocktails. I loved the late night Happy Hour from 9 PM to 11 PM. I was happy to leave our resort to head over for a late night nosh to try it out. The croquettes, duck wings, fried chicken sandwich & dressed oysters were yummy. My wife had beer & I had the cocktail seen picture and I can't remember the name of it right now, lol. But it's all there in the picture. The bartender makes his own bitters and syrups and things like that, you see it's very artistic and beautiful. And delicious! saving the best for last, Brian the fantastic & creative bartender is a legit artist! He has artwork on the wall, and I bought one, lol. My only con - the $$ for "HH." It was a Sunday night & the place was completely dead. No more than 5 people at the bar at a time. It's not convenient/nearby anything, thus you have to intentionally desire to patronize it. Brian said earlier in the day it was completely packed for happy hour and brunch, etc. But if you're going to be open at night, (and I appreciate being open at night for the late night Happy Hour, PLEASE keep it!) WE who ventured out should be rewarded with bigger, discounted deals, lol. The late night Happy Hour should be even better discount than earlier happy hour. For example, the chicken sandwich with the fries came to be the same amount as it would be on the regular menu. The Happy Hour price for the chicken sandwich is two dollars less than the regular menu item, which right there is NOT a big enough discount to start with. But if you want french fries, they charge you two dollars therefore bringing it up to the original $16 price point. That's a happy hour bummer situation! For late night HH, that chicken sandwich should've been $10. & what are you doing with those leftover dressed oysters? Not much! You should make those Buck-a shuck for late night! (they were out of raw oysters, my preference, which is totally understandable by that time of night.) Overall, we would've ordered more things & lingered longer if I felt a bigger value. The cocktails are handcrafted, so I can't argue about those price points, but I used to manage a wine bar in Rittenouse Square in Philadelphia, I know the markup... The glasses of wine don't have to be that high. :) especially since this was a Sunday night and they don't reopen till Wednesday, what a great opportunity to have legit specials on open bottles. Call it Sip'n Sundays and at late night Happy Hour, ANY glass of wine from bottles that are already open, $6 a glass. That HH would be hopping on Sunday nights! YOU'RE WELCOME! read more

Cardinal - Last Stop in Town - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

I had such high hopes too. Really friendly staff. Risotto was kind of hard with the scallops. Scallops were ok, so was the caesar salad. The Shrimp cocktail had no cocktail sauce. Maybe it was kind of an off night. Had some kind of a weird disney themed dinner on a random wednesday night. Eh maybe next time. read more

Cardinal - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

Patrick great guy, Food delicious, I forget the one waitress name she got a brownie on the house for my B day 10 .

Wonderful catered brunch for a family celebrations! Food was delicious; Mimosa and Bloody Mary Bar was fun; and service was great! Highly recommend. Michael and Sage were great to work with. read more

Have been back twice since my initial review. The first time was during lunch when we spent time in the outdoor area. That had a really good performer that day so it added to the experience. I had the Curried Chickpea Salad Wrap which was very good. Loved the flavor combination. The last time was this past week for dinner. I had the Cauliflower Steak which was delicious. The Cauliflower was great and the puree with the sunflower seeds and raisins made for a great bite. My wife had the Ricotta Gnocchi with crab. She really enjoyed it and I had the rest of the sauce the next day on my eggs and it was really good. The service still continues to be great and the staff is awesome. They also completed the decor on the private room and I must say it looked great from what I could see. read more

My wife had a Lamberhernthat both of us agreed was completely tasteless. I had Halibut with Crab. Looked perfectly, however it appears cooked on one side as that side was rather leathery. Service was terrific. Had their special bread (with Cranberries) I.wiuld go again, nut ask more questions on preparation and seasoning read more

AMAZING staff... Amazing food... Amazing atmosphere. My daughter and I started with the fried brussels sprouts and they were out of this world! Then I got the brussels sprouts salad with grilled chicken, which was to die for, and she got the smash burger with truffle fries. Victoria, our server, was friendly, accommodating, and very professional Next time we're coming for happy hour! read more

Cardinal - Fried brussels sprouts - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

See all

My favorite in AC right now! I shamefully went twice this week. The duck wings... I could eat them at least once a week. The Brussels sprouts are in a similar sauce and just as tasty. I sat at the bar the first time this week and it is my preferred dining option for 1-2 people. The bartender is on top of everything. We sat in the dining room area the 2nd time because it was better for my family group. It was not echoing so it was a perfect sound level for conversation. The outside dining options are high tops, picnic tables and a fire pit. There are grass and sand areas. You can find everything here. They also have festivals and events often! Great vibe & great food every time I visit! read more

See all

The food was yummy! Ambiance very pleasant. Nice neighborhood gem. Our server was good. read more

Cardinal - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

Cardinal is a delightful modern bar & restaurant steps away from the AC boardwalk and a welcome aesthetic if you're looking for something far more satisfying and healthy than fried oreos and pizza. After being here three weeks I've frequented Cardinal as often as possible, enjoying the brussels, broccoli and crispy chicken sandwich. Service is excellent, food is delicious and the ambience is calm and classy. Definitely feel like I'm back in Brooklyn while in the establishment. Loved the Bait & Switch mezcal concoction and espresso martinis are perfection. Thank you! Will keep returning until we leave! read more

See all

We were looking for a place to eat outside of the typical commercialized casino restaurants, which led us to Cardinal due to the fabulous reviews! The ambience was a mood -- cozy, dimly lit, and artwork done by a local artist (im assuming) ... our server was fantastic, educating us on the restaurant and the chef ... she was completely attentive, and guided us through some of the GF options we needed for my husband. Our food was beyond delicious (get the Crispy Broccoli & the Smashburger!), and we already plan on returning our next trip down! read more

Happy hour 7 days a week. Not many places offer that. Oysters for a buck. Raw was better than cooked. Truffle fries could have used some more truffle flavor. Wings were tasty. The crispy broccoli was fabulous. Drinks were good. Service was friendly and quick. Cute place with outside seating - fire pits and games We will be back. read more

See all

Businesses should not falsely advertise. Businesses should not double down on their false advertising when called out on it by a customer. Their website says they have $1 oysters at happy hour. They do not. Their staff member shrugged when I told them this and said that the new price is the new price. Cool. Everything else about my experience is tainted by this. It does not really matter that the rest of the meal was decent or that the employee with the huge mustache and the d20 pin seemed very sociable and knowledgeable about his craft. But I won't remember that. I'll remember a three dollar overcharge instead. read more

Cardinal - website still showing dollar oysters at happy hour - this is false advertising - New American Near Me - Atlantic City, New Jersey

See all

This place rules. The service was fantastic. The duck wings were delicious. The oysters were excellent. The halibut was phenomenal. Perfect ambiance. A gem in Atlantic City. read more

What a great little place! Spent a few nights with a buddy down in AC for a little winter break without the family. We had dinner reservations but decided to get there real early and check out the happy hour. Happy hour (4-6pm) was wonderful. It wasn't crowded at all at 4 and they had a nice selection of food and alcohol at discounted prices. So nice a selection we cancelled our reservation and just tried a bunch of happy hour dishes and some classic cocktails. All the food was great. I ordered a small salad with chicken off of the regular menu as my last item and it was large and delicious. Bartenders were friendly and the place just had a nice, local non-casino vibe. Looking forward to going back. read more

See all

This is an amazing place, with friendly amazing staff and delicious food. Chef Michael and his family have put a lot of love in creating this place and it is seen throughout. From plants, to decorations, to seating and even the creation of dishes, this is a place that you often do not see around. I love those duck wings, enjoy the croquette and super fan of the wedge salad. Love the crafted drinks and the love that are put into them when making. Whether for winter or summer, the vibe is amazing and some nights there is a solo performer that makes for an even incredible night. Well done! read more

See all

Wasn't crazy about the goat cheese grilled cheese. The bread was too thick. However this place is pretty cool, and I might like another dish better. Would go back. read more