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Popular Atlantic City Restaurant Named New Jersey’s Most Iconic Steakhouse

The exterior of the Knife and Fork Inn restaurant in Atlantic City, New Jersey

Popular Atlantic City Restaurant Named New Jersey’s Most Iconic Steakhouse

The exterior of the Knife and Fork Inn restaurant in Atlantic City, New Jersey

Peter Candia

New Jersey has no shortage of must-try steakhouses. But according to a new ranking by Business Insider, one century-old Atlantic City institution stands above the rest.

Opened in 1912, The Knife and Fork Inn was named the most iconic steakhouse in New Jersey, part of Business Insider’s nationwide list identifying the most legendary steakhouse in all 50 states. The publication states: “The iconic steakhouse is known for its classic cuts, seafood dishes, and storied past, which includes ties to Prohibition-era figures and politicians.”

At more than 100 years old, the Knife and Fork Inn is one of the most historically significant restaurants in the state. Originally opened as a men’s-only drinking and dining club—with a “ladies lounge” on the second floor—the restaurant was known to host gambling and other risqué activities during Prohibition. The property was raided by federal agents during the 20s, and all of its contents destroyed.

Eventually, new owners would take over and convert the restaurant into a standard, high-end steakhouse—open to the public and not segregated by gender. In the ensuing decades, it would morph into the institution it’s known as today.

For Atlantic City, the recognition is a reminder that the city’s dining scene extends well beyond the casino floor. The Knife and Fork Inn has been drawing diners to the corner of Atlantic and Pacific Avenues for a century. 

According to many, it’s still the gold standard. 

The Best Steakhouses in New Jersey: 2026 Guide

Peter Candia is the Food + Drink Editor at New Jersey Digest. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Peter found a passion for writing midway through school and never looked back. He is a former line cook, server and bartender at top-rated restaurants in the tri-state area. In addition to food, Peter enjoys politics, music, sports and anything New Jersey.

Picture of Peter Candia

Peter Candia

Peter Candia is the Food + Drink Editor at New Jersey Digest. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Peter found a passion for writing midway through school and never looked back. He is a former line cook, server and bartender at top-rated restaurants in the tri-state area. In addition to food, Peter enjoys politics, music, sports and anything New Jersey.