New York City, a canvas painted with eclectic strokes of diversity, culture, and flavor, offers more than just iconic landmarks and towering skyscrapers. Nestled in its vibrant neighborhoods are culinary gems known as ‘Nicos’—unique establishments serving up sumptuous delights that tantalize the senses. These quaint havens are not just places to eat; they embody the heartbeat of their respective locales, offering an authentic taste of the city’s rich tapestry. Here, we unearth ten Nicos, each a beacon of culinary artistry, set against their vibrant backdrops.
1. NICO Kitchen & Bar
Address: 716 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 582-5800
Website: www.nicokb.com
Nestled in the adrenaline of Hell’s Kitchen, NICO Kitchen & Bar is akin to discovering an intimate oasis amidst a bustling market. This spirited eatery marries classic Italian fare with modern culinary techniques. The aroma of roasted garlic wafts through the air as diners indulge in handmade pasta and artisanal pizzas, each dish a testament to the chef’s love for flavor and tradition.
2. Nico’s Taco & Tequila
Address: 588 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10016
Contact: (212) 686-8462
Website: www.nicostacotequila.com
A vibrant explosion of color and zest, Nico’s Taco & Tequila in the heart of Midtown is reminiscent of a lively marketplace in Mexico. With a menu brimming with authentic tacos, handcrafted margaritas, and a cornucopia of salsas, this spot is a flavorful fiesta for the palate. The eclectic decor pulsates with energy, becoming a gathering place for friends and families enjoying the warm embrace of culture and community.
3. Café NICO
Address: 575 E 185th St, The Bronx, NY 10458
Contact: (718) 733-1242
Website: www.cafenico.com
In the heart of the Bronx lies Café NICO—a cozy bistro that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Its ambiance invites you to linger, while the menu, displaying a trove of authentic Latin and Caribbean fare, transports you to vibrant shores. Each plate is a colorful mosaic of tastes, with ingredients sourced from local markets, reflecting the cultural heritage of its bustling neighborhood.
4. NICO’s Pizza
Address: 273 E 8th St, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 673-2555
Website: www.nicospizza.com
For pizza aficionados, NICO’s Pizza in the East Village is the sacred temple of flatbread creativity. Here, dough becomes a canvas for culinary trysts, adorned with fresh ingredients and innovative toppings. The aroma of baking pizzas fills the air, drawing in passersby like moths to a flame. The spirited vibe harmonizes laughter and clinking glasses, crafting an unforgettable dining experience.
5. NICO’s Italian Kitchen
Address: 307 Sean Blvd, Astoria, NY 11106
Contact: (718) 274-0001
Website: www.nicositaliankitchen.com
Nestled within the friendly confines of Astoria, NICO’s Italian Kitchen exudes the charm of a rustic Italian villa. The tantalizing scent of Nona’s sauce simmering on the stove beckons you inside. Each dish, crafted with love and nostalgia, tells the story of Italian heritage. Diners are enveloped in warmth, with families and friends sharing stories over heaping plates of delectable homemade pasta.
6. NICO’s Patisserie
Address: 153 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (646) 336-4453
Website: www.nicospatisserie.com
A sweet escape situated in Midtown, NICO’s Patisserie is akin to stepping into a fairy tale, where dreams are crafted into pastries. This charming bakery features exquisite French confections—flaky croissants, luscious éclairs, and dainty tarts—each bite a delicate dance of flavor and texture. The artistry extends beyond taste, making every pastry a feast for the eyes.
7. NICO’s Mediterranean Grill
Address: 2245 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11234
Contact: (718) 377-8384
Website: www.nicosgrill.com
In Brooklyn, NICO’s Mediterranean Grill is a vibrant echo of sun-soaked shores and azure waters. Here, recipes woven from the threads of ancient traditions come alive in dishes that celebrate the richness of Mediterranean cuisine. The aroma of grilled meats and fresh vegetables pervades the air, and each plate is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, inviting patrons to indulge in the splendid heritage of the region.
8. NICO’s Fusion Bistro
Address: 539 S 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 255-3330
Website: www.nicosfusion.com
At NICO’s Fusion Bistro, culinary boundaries dissolve like mist in the morning sun. Located in the dynamic landscape of Greenwich Village, this eatery juxtaposes global flavors into an innovative culinary tapestry. Diners experience a delightful interplay of tastes—from Asian-inspired tapas to European classics, creating a truly transcendent dining affair. Here, every dish is a passport to a new world, promising an adventure to excite the palate.
9. NICO’s Bistro & Bar
Address: 455 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 555-0169
Website: www.nicosbistro.com
In the heart of the West Village, NICO’s Bistro & Bar is reminiscent of a Parisian café, complete with a cozy patio adorned with twinkling lights. Here, the culinary prowess shines through classic French and New American dishes. Diners enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, further enhancing the experience of blissful indulgence amidst the charm of this residential haven.
10. NICO’s Diner
Address: 785 6th Ave, New York, NY 10010
Contact: (212) 987-1230
Website: www.nicosdiner.com
Rounding out this culinary journey is NICO’s Diner, an unassuming treasure located in Chelsea that radiates a nostalgic aura—a haven for breakfast enthusiasts and late-night diners alike. The tantalizing scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the savory aroma of crispy bacon and fluffy pancakes, creating a symphony of comfort. Each meal is a celebration of the quintessential American experience, serving up plates that embody warmth and familiarity.
As the sun sets over the city that never sleeps, these Nicos stand as unseen bastions of culinary creativity and community warmth. Each restaurant, with its unique charm and delectable offerings, is woven into the fabric of its neighborhood, inviting both locals and visitors to partake in their stories. Whether you’re enveloped in the aroma of baking breads or savoring a piquant taco, the essence of these Nicos lingers like a cherished memory, beckoning you to return again and again.
