Looking for a delicious culinary experience while in town for a meeting or event? Dive into the vibrant soul of the city! Black-owned restaurants in Atlantic City offer a variety of flavors and cuisine, from finger-lickin' BBQ to fresh seafood and vegan dishes, with a side of southern hospitality.
Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a celebratory group dinner, here are some of Atlantic City's Black-owned cafes, bakeries, and restaurants you’ll want to add to your itinerary.
Kelsey’s Restaurant
Craving comfort food with a soul that fuels both meetings and good times? Look no further than Kelsey's Atlantic City on Pacific Avenue, with husband and wife duo Kelsey and Kim Jackson at the helm. This Black-owned gem whips up elevated versions of familiar favorites, from melt-in-your-mouth BBQ ribs to fresh seafood and crave-worthy sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
Need a space for your pre-meeting huddle or post-event celebration? Kelsey's private dining room lets you customize a buffet-style spread just for your group. And if weekend brunches are on the agenda, Kelsey's Saturday and Sunday smorgasbords are guaranteed to leave everyone happy and ready to tackle the day.
Kelsey & Kim’s Southern Cafe
Situated near the Absecon Inlet is Kelsey’s sister restaurant, Kelsey & Kim's Southern Cafe. Enjoy home-cooked dishes for lunch or dinner, including tender steaks, fresh seafood platters, and classic Southern comforts like chicken gumbo and shrimp and grits. Daily specials keep things fresh, so prepare to try something new and delicious with every visit. Kelsey & Kim's is the place to refuel after a long day with plenty of good food and company.
Vegans are Us
With a sister spot in Vineland, Vegans are Us whips up 100% plant-based goodness. Behind the delicious food is Chef Sharonda Harris Bunton, who also owns the place. Forget bland salads and beige beans–here, vegan food gets a southern makeover.
Sink your teeth into juicy plant-based burgers and mouth-watering sandwiches, like the iconic Philly-V Steak or Ultimate Beast Mac & Cheese Burger with beyond meat. The restaurant also offers breakfast dishes, smoothies, desserts, and more.
Mike B’s Cafe
Mike B’s Cafe is a soul food haven with breakfast, lunch, and bakery goods that’ll fill you with love. From chicken and waffles to meaty sandwiches and everything in between, Mike B’s Cafe is a local Black-owned staple you have to try.
Eat Up
The next time you’re in Atlantic City for a meeting or event, make it a point to dine at our city’s Black-owned eateries. Those mentioned above are just some of the many options found throughout our coastal destination. Beyond eateries, you’ll find many local African-American attractions and businesses you’ll want to add to your trip.
