If you’re planning a trip to the Jersey Shore and need safe gluten-free food, let me introduce you to one of my favorite hidden gems in Margate City, New Jersey – Margate Dairy Bar & Burger.
Whenever my husband and I visit Ventnor City or Atlantic City, we almost always make the short drive—less than 15 minutes—to Margate Dairy Bar & Burger.
Ventnor has become one of our favorite beach towns because it’s quieter than Atlantic City while still being close enough to enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Best of all, there are several excellent gluten-free restaurants nearby, and Margate Dairy Bar sits in the top 3 of my list.
After multiple visits, I can confidently say this isn’t just a restaurant with a few gluten-free options. It’s a family business that genuinely believes everyone deserves to enjoy a great meal safely.
Where to Stay Nearby:
Ocean’s has a vibrant setting and one of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a lively spot with two good gluten-free dining options on-site, making it a welcoming choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Ocean’s Casino is also directly on the Boardwalk, so you can enjoy the beach as well as a walk to some of the other casinos!
Just minutes away, Ventnor City offers a quieter alternative with easy access to Atlantic City. Ideal if you prefer a more relaxed stay while still enjoying nearby gluten-free restaurants within walking distance.
This is our favorite place to stay! We no longer stay in Atlantic City, but instead stay at an Airbnb in Ventnor City and take an Uber when we go into A.C.
This is our usual Airbnb in Ventnor!
Gluten-Free Options at Margate Dairy Bar
Some restaurants offer a gluten-free bun and call it a day.
Margate Dairy Bar goes much further.
During one visit, I asked one of the managers why they were so knowledgeable about gluten-free dining. I assumed someone in the family had celiac disease.
His answer completely surprised me.
He told me that no one in the family has celiac disease. Instead, the owners simply wanted to make sure all customers—including anyone with food allergies—could enjoy eating there without feeling excluded.
That answer honestly warmed my heart.
In a world where eating out with celiac disease can feel stressful and isolating, finding a restaurant whose mission is inclusion says everything about the people behind the business.
That attitude shows in every interaction with the staff.
Allergy Friendly
One of the biggest reasons I trust Margate Dairy Bar is how seriously they take cross contamination.
They have a dedicated separate fryer, which is a huge win for anyone with celiac disease.
That means you can safely enjoy:
French fries
Chicken dippers
Crispy fried favorites without worrying about shared fryer contamination
Having a dedicated fryer is still surprisingly uncommon, even at restaurants advertising a gluten-free menu, so this immediately sets them apart.
The staff also understands allergy procedures and answers questions confidently instead of guessing.
That peace of mind is priceless.
What Can You Eat Gluten-Free?
There’s a surprisingly large selection of gluten-free food available.
Burgers
Their burgers are excellent and can be ordered on gf buns, gluten-free buns, or as a lettuce wrap if you prefer.
If you’re craving a classic burger, don’t hesitate.
Every bite of their juicy grilled cheeseburger reminds me why we’ve made this a tradition every time we’re in town.
Not in the mood for beef?
They also offer:
Turkey burgers
A veggie burger
Hot dogs served on gluten-free buns
It’s refreshing to see a casual burger restaurant offer this much flexibility.
Fries
For many people with celiac disease, ordering fries at restaurants is almost impossible because they’re usually cooked alongside breaded foods.
Not here.
Thanks to their separate fryer, the fries are one of my favorite parts of the meal.
Whether you order classic fries or another fried side, you can finally relax and enjoy your meal instead of wondering what shared oil they’ve been cooked in.
Affordable & Family Friendly
Finding restaurants that truly understand celiac disease can feel overwhelming.
Finding one that cares simply because they believe everyone deserves to eat safely?
That’s something special.
Margate Dairy Bar & Burger has become one of our favorite restaurants in South Jersey—not only because the food is delicious, but because the people behind it genuinely care.
From their dedicated separate fryer and excellent allergy protocols to their welcoming staff and affordable prices, they’ve created an experience that makes gluten-free diners feel included instead of like an inconvenience.
We’ll absolutely keep coming back every time we visit Ventnor City.
If you’re heading to the Jersey Shore this summer, I highly recommend adding Margate Dairy Bar & Burger to your itinerary.
Safe fries, fantastic burgers, great service, and a family business with a heart—it’s hard to ask for more than that.
Overall Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
What I Recommend
Cheeseburger on a gluten-free bun
French fries from the dedicated fryer
Chicken dippers
Turkey burger
Water ice
Located on Ventnor Ave in Margate City, this beloved local spot has become a tradition for countless families visiting the Jersey Shore.
There’s something of pure nostalgia about pulling into the parking lot, seeing the iconic white signage, grabbing a seat near the yellow picnic tables, and enjoying burgers and ice cream after a day at the beach.
Whether you’re spending the weekend in Ventnor, exploring Atlantic City, or simply looking for safe gluten-free dining along the coast, this restaurant deserves a stop.
If you’ve visited Margate Dairy Bar & Burger, I’d love to hear what you ordered! Leave a comment below and help other gluten-free travelers discover one of New Jersey’s best family-friendly gluten-free restaurants.