Nikki C’s: Small Restaurant, Large Appeal

Nikki C’s is a small restaurant which possesses a large appeal. It is named after the owner’s daughter and the restaurant has gathered a large faithful following over the years; among race track enthusiasts, local neighbors and a kaleidoscope of regulars from all parts unknown.

It offers an Italian menu with an old American Flair.  The restaurant is softly lit and has a club feel about it.  The bar has six TV’s and many of the patrons find Nikki C’s as attractive and satisfying as Norm would on any Cheers episode.  Most of the regulars sit at the bar when they take their main course and it appeared to me that they felt at ease, as if they were in their own home enjoying a meal.

For my last visit I decided to sit in the dining room, which is quaint or in proper American speak, on the small side. I wanted to get a better idea of what they had for a selection, so I decided that I would order half orders of appetizers and entrees. That way I could try more dishes and get a better idea of what they have to offer.

For starters I had the Blue Cheese Wedge Salad ($8). It is comprised of a crisp cut of lettuce topped with bacon bits and Blue Cheese dressing. That is one fantastic dish that I will order every time I attend this restaurant. I stuck with appetizers for our next course, which was a combination of Ahi Sashimi and Filet Mignon on toasted baguettes, with a touch of wasabi mayo ($10). This is a gold medal winner for this critic.

As a surprise our host Nikki brought us out a bacon wrapped filet mignon on a bed of Risotto.  I felt the Risotto could have been cooked another minute, but was assured that it was done correctly.  I guess I’m not so smart after all, no comment please!  During the meal I enjoyed a Cadillac Margarita; I missed the ice float, though. Well that just how I enjoy it.

Okay, its entree time.  You have to have Lasagna at an Italian restaurant, don’t you? It brought back a forgotten memory of a place that I went to in Hoboken, New Jersey on a rainy day. It has enough cheese to satisfy any cheese lover and flavor that your mama would lift her fork approvingly.  Since I wasn’t driving I ended the night with a martini at the bar, tasty, and only $8.

Nikki C’s 470 S. Rosemead Bl. Pasadena  (626) 792-7437  Well worth the drive. Check out their web site for exact prices and times of operation. www.nikkics.com

E Mail your favorite spot: thechefknows@yahoo.com. For more reviews by Peter Dills visit www.peterdills.com.