Nick’s Laguna is a small restaurant that is always busy. And, though it is located on PCH, it does not offer ocean views, but that does not take away from the excellent food and service.  We’ve been customers of Nicks for around 12 years, and throughout the experience, it has been consistently excellent.

What’s in a Name

Nick Nickoloff, the owner of Nick’s restaurant, has continued the family legacy as the fourth generation of restaurant proprietors in the Nickoloff family. There are now many locations, but Downtown Laguna Beach is the first.

While the name of the restaurant may appear straightforward, it pays homage to his grandfather Carl Nickoloff’s Long Beach coffee shop, Nik’s. Although Nick’s has its unique concept compared to its predecessors, the core objective of providing delectable food and exceptional, professional service remains a cherished tradition in the family.

Since its opening, the Laguna Beach location has consistently operated at full capacity and has even led to the establishment of three additional branches in San Clemente, Long Beach, and Manhattan Beach. Additionally, there is a Mexican-themed counterpart named South of Nick’s in San Clemente.

The Dining Experience

Upon walking into Nick’s, we were immediately greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The decor is understated but stylish, echoing the casual sophistication synonymous with Laguna Beach. There is seating both inside and on the outdoor patio.

The menu at Nick’s is a blend of American traditional and contemporary cuisine. The well-balanced selection caters to a variety of palates, with vegetarian and gluten-free options thoughtfully included. We have frequented Nicks and enjoyed the grilled vegetable sandwich, a delightful blend of flavors that showcases the fresh produce, and the prime rib dip sandwich, a must-try for meat lovers.

In our option, the stars of the show are the seafood dishes, resonating with the seaside location. The San Francisco Cioppino, brimming with a generous mix of shellfish, is cooked to perfection and has a delightful depth of flavor that pays homage to the ocean’s bounty. You can view their menu here: http://nicksrestaurants.com/wp-content/uploads/nicks-laguna-beach-food-beverages-menu.pdf

Nick’s service complements the food and ambiance perfectly. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, never hesitating to offer recommendations when asked.

As for the bar, it is well-stocked with a wide range of drinks. We loved the touch of deep friend olives added to our Bloody Mary.  The wine list is a bit limited offering a small variety of primarily the regions in California.   

The restaurant falls a bit short on the dessert selection. While the offerings are enjoyable, they do lack a bit of originality, and this is where Nick’s could further enhance its culinary experience.

In Conclusion

Overall, Nick’s Laguna Beach offers a sublime dining experience that is hard to match. It is perfect for a romantic date or a relaxed lunch with friends. A must-visit for locals and tourists alike, Nick’s Restaurant in Laguna Beach is a culinary jewel that showcases the very best of California coastal cuisine.