Summer in Atlantic County is all about sunshine, beach days and nights at your favorite local bars. One thing the bars and restaurants around here do right is happy hour. Whether you want to end a workday with fresh seafood, catch up with friends over cocktails or sit by the water with a cold drink in hand, there are all kinds of spots serving up happy hour specials and vibes, all summer long.
Here are eight local spots worth adding to your summer happy hour rotation.
Dock’s Oyster House – Atlantic City
A staple of Atlantic City dining for more than a century, Dock’s Oyster House continues to be one of the area’s most sought-after happy hour destinations. The iconic oyster bar draws a large crowd with its seafood options, great cocktails and welcoming atmosphere. Dock’s offers happy hour daily from 4 to 6 p.m., but plan to get there early, as a line to grab seats starts quick.
Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall – Atlantic City
Located in Atlantic City’s Orange Loop, Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall offers a more laid-back happy hour vibe. With a cozy atmosphere, large beer selection, outdoor seating and delicious appetizers, it’s a popular stop before shows or a night out. Tennessee Beer Hall offers a double dose of happy hour magic Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and then again from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. On Fridays, they offer happy hour from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Steve & Cookie’s By the Bay – Margate
For those who want another upscale happy hour joint, think Steve & Cookie’s. This longtime Margate favorite spot offers great drinks and food in an incredible setting. Steve & Cookies offers happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. in their popular Oyster Bar from Sunday to Thursday.
Back Bay Ale House – Atlantic City
Happy hour prices and a bay view? Need we say more? Back Bay Ale House is home to everything people love about summer at the shore. Known for its waterfront deck, frozen cocktails and relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to kick back after a workday. Head to Back Bay for happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. and all day on Sunday.
Queen Jayne’s – Somers Point
Queen Jayne’s has quickly become one of Somers Point’s hidden gems and a local favorite spot. Known for its cozy atmosphere and unique décor, you can sit and enjoy creative drinks, great small plates and a hometown feel. Queen Jayne’s offers happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
Knife and Fork Inn – Atlantic City
Another fan-favorite happy hour where the line will be out the door is at Knife and Fork. A great time to experience the restaurant’s upscale ambiance while enjoying signature cocktails, wine and select appetizers for less. Knife and Fork offers happy hour every day from 4 to 6 p.m., and it’s one you won’t want to miss.
Ventura’s
Ventura’s is a local staple restaurant with two locations. Same name, two different but equally great vibes. Ventura’s Greenhouse is located in Margate and is home to a well-known and very popular beach bar. Ventura’s Offshore is located in Northfield and is a local staple for catching a game at the bar or having dinner in the dining room. Both great spots depending on your vibe for the night. Ventura’s Greenhouse offers happy hour Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., while Offshore offers it Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. and all day on Sunday.
Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar – Somers Point
Another local staple, Gregory’s, where strangers become friends and locals keep on coming back. Gregory’s is your classic neighborhood bar with good food and refreshing drinks. Stop in and relax amongst the ease of the joint. Happy hour is offered every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., with fun Taco Tuesday discounts and deals on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
As summer continues in full swing, Atlantic County offers no shortage of places to unwind after a long day. Happy hour is the perfect way to keep the summer fun times going for less, and these happy hour destinations capture the best of the season with great food, refreshing drinks and the feeling of summer at the Jersey Shore.
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DLC Media, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
