Nick's
$$$ • Restaurant
Most Recent Reviews
Nicks and the nicks group always knock it out of the park! I emailed them to ask what items would be gluten free and safe to consume since my boyfriend is celiac. They emailed a list for both their Nicks and South of Nicks restaurants. They are also well versed in cross contamination. I always feel confident in the team here!
Nick’s is an OC institution. About 30% of menu can be made GF, but there’s no GF menu or GF items marked on the menu. Be ready to ask the server questions. I was pleased to discover our server was highly knowledgeable about food allergies.
Small bummer: tortilla chips are made in a shared fryer.
I had the deviled eggs appetizer and the kale and quinoa salad as my main.
I was surprised when the server shared with us that the kitchen wanted to double-check that their quinoa was okay for me. Apparently the quinoa’s package said “processed in a facility that also processes wheat.” That doesn’t trouble me, so I gave them the all-clear to continue prepping my meal.
I’ve never had a kitchen carefully reassess core ingredients for warnings for me before! Very cool.
When I expressed my appreciation to our server, she told me that the kitchen was always scrupulous about food sensitivities. For example, she told us that all the wheat flour was stored in the bottom shelves of the kitchen and all the GF grains are stored up high in sealed containers.
More good news: 3 of the 5 desserts they serve can be GF: sundae, bon bons, and affogato.
I had to try the sundae. And I’m glad I did. It’s phenomenal. Like, if you’re having a bad day, I bet this sundae would cheer you right up. Top quality ingredients.
Nice work, Nick’s!
Service was not good - our 30 min wait turned into an hour waiting for a table, once we were seated someone brought a delicious looking dessert to us then they shortly realized it was the wrong table and took it away (such a painful psych after waiting for so long!), and the server never came back and asked if we needed anything. Being GF and vegetarian made my options extremely limited, so when I asked how much would a side of mashed potatoes cost (since it’s not on the menu) the server made quite the face at me. That being said……the spinach artichoke dip was really good.
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More Reviews
Everytime we're in the area this is a must go! Upscale atmosphere, and delicious food. Menu is not marked for gluten free but every visit wait staff has pointed out all the GF options. Deviled eggs appetizer so so good! Steak and loaded baked potato has been amazing both times.. and of course the hot fudge Sunday for dessert. Dreaming about this place, can't wait till our next trip!
The staff was knowledgeable and when my food was delivered they confirmed food was gluten free and prepared safely to avoid cross contamination. The food was fantastic - favorite meal in San Clemente.
We come here for special occasions. They always accommodate!
Always attentive and knowledgeable to your needs. They put you at ease. Food is excellent and they have a variety of gluten free items.
Absolutely fantastic food and the staff were so comfortable with celiac and gluten free I didn’t worry and had a wonderful meal!!
I’ve been eating here for years and they have changed their policies to be very friendly to customers with special requests. The manager comes to the table after you tell your server you are Celiac. Then they explain everything will be prepared separate and safely. I order the same thing every time because they are consistent in quality and service. I get the roasted artichoke, the Sea Bass and vegetable sides, sometimes I get the baked potato- all delicious!!
We have eaten here countless times and the staff takes celiacs very seriously. They have a dedicated fryer for their chips. The food is fantastic too.
Absolutely phenomenal! The server was respectful and extremely helpful with options. The manager came over and spoke with me about my restrictions and worked with the server to ensure I had an amazing experience!
I've eaten hear multiple times and they always go out of their way to make food selections Celiac approved. I've never been sick or had any issues. The food is 5 stars! If you are in San Clemente, you have to give Nick's a try.
