More than smokin’ chicken wings: Nick’s Restaurant is a roadside gem

Just outside of downtown Xenia on Route 68 heading toward Yellow Springs is a causal roadside gem that has consistently been given accolades over the years.

Nick Malavazos opened Nick's Restaurant in 1949 and in 2009 Marc Perkins took it on, giving it new life.

It's a restaurant that makes you feel at home from the time you walk in and a great spot to grab breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m.-noon. They have a sweet hot bloody Mary, a spicy bloody Mary and a classic bloody Mary ($7.50 each) to go with your breakfast of choice.

Over the years it has consistently taken home some of the top honors at the Kickin' Chicken Wing Fest at Fraze Pavilion thanks to their Sweet Hot Damn sauce and flavorful, moist delicious wings that have impressed crowds and judges alike. Their chicken wings come breaded or naked in quantities of 20 ($19.99), 10 ($10.99) and 5 ($5.99) with options of 14 different sauces. Just stay away from their "Fire in Ya Hole" hot sauce unless you can take the heat.

>>RELATED: Why people are coming from all over to this Xenia restaurant (hint: it’s the sauce)

One of the most popular sandwiches is the Big Nick Burger, which also can be done as a "Big Chick" with chicken. It's a half-pound burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, special sauce and cheese for an additional 50 cents. It's a straightforward no-nonsense burger that does what it does well and doesn't try and complicate things needlessly.

Overall, the portions are generous and the price is right, which makes Nick's Restaurant worth a visit.

WANT TO GO?

What: Nick's Restaurant

Where: 1443 N. Detroit St., Xenia

More information: 937-372-3202 or http://gotonicks.com

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