South of Nick’s, the latest venture from NickCo Hospitality Group, delves
into Southern California’s Mexican roots to add a little chile and spice to
Nick’s brand of fresh, flavorful food and warm hospitality.
Located at the historic corner of Avenida Del Mar and El Camino Real, South of
Nick’s continues a tradition of hospitality started on that spot nearly a
century ago by San Clemente founder Ole Hanson.
While creating the menu for South of Nick’s, owner Nick Nickoloff and his
culinary team studied relentlessly both locally and in Mexico to perfect the
nuanced layering of flavors that forms the base of Mexican cuisine. They
returned to San Clemente to blend those lessons into new recipes as well as
dishes they knew and loved from their family traditions.
Updates of entrees like Snapper Veracruz and Huevos Rancheros sit side-by-side
with classic combination plates, nachos and Mexican shrimp cocktail. The menu
also offers wood-grilled prime steaks and steak-and-seafood combinations,
including a crowd-pleasing Tablita that combines grilled prawns, prime rib-eye
and citrus grilled chicken.
To honor the historic site, designers Charles and Deborah Ramm retained the
original tile pavers on the patio, which now features bubbling fountains and
broad views onto bustling El Camino Real. Propelling South of Nick’s into the
21st Century, they accented the interior with splashes of charred cedar,
hammered nickle and red leather, along with artisan-crafted light fixtures and a
modern hearth.
For private events, South of Nick’s created space just off the main dining
room, fitted out with charred cedar walls and a handcrafted antique wood table
that seats up to 14 guests.
South of Nick’s will be open daily beginning January 10, 2012. For
reservations and information, call 949-481-4545 or nicksrestaurants.com
Located at 110 North El Camino Real in San Clemente.
Posted by Suzanna
