The Embers Restaurant

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

Ocean City's Rooftop Steakhouse with a Serious Wine List

Perched on the third floor of the District 24 complex on Philadelphia Avenue, 1945 Steak & Seafood — operating under The Embers Restaurant — brings something genuinely different to Ocean City's dining scene. The open kitchen and rooftop concept frames sweeping views over the bay, while the room itself carries a lounge-style ease that keeps things relaxed without sacrificing polish. A suggested smart-casual dress code signals the tone: elevated, but not stiff.

Brick Oven Flavors and Chophouse Classics

The American menu spans a confident range — elevated pizzas from the brick oven, chophouse classics, small plates, and rustic seafood combinations. Featured starters include a seafood tower, lobster cocktail, crab cocktail, shrimp cocktail, and oysters. Guests have praised the lobster mac & cheese, risotto, and fingerling potatoes. It's the kind of menu where a table can share across categories without anyone feeling shortchanged.

A Wine Program Worth the Recognition

The wine list earned a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2024 — recognition that reflects genuine depth and curation. The list moves across Burgundy Chardonnays, Alsatian Pinot Blanc, Sancerre, Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Napa Cabernet, and Italian varietals from Veneto and Tuscany, among others. Selections are available by the glass, bottle, and even by Coravin for certain reds — a thoughtful touch that suits both the casual visitor and the wine-focused diner.

The Experience on the Ground

Guest accounts consistently highlight the warmth of the staff across every floor of the complex, from the ground-floor reception to the third-floor dining room. Live music on the patio while waiting for a table adds to the atmosphere. For those who prefer to stay in, delivery and pickup options extend the American steakhouse and seafood experience beyond the restaurant walls.