Nicholas Greek & Italian Restaurant

My fiancé and I came here for our anniversary, and it was amazing! Quiet and cozy atmosphere. They're humble about their food, but it's really the best place we've been all year! Delicious!!

Nicholas' restaurant in Tullahoma, TN is a "hidden gem" to borrow the phrase from the guidebook published by the American Automobile Association. The owner is a trained executive chef. The quality of the food reflects his knowledge and experience. The restaurant of the European family style restaurants I liked when I lived there. There are many times the entire staff, which is small, are all family members. We have been eating at this restaurant since before the two children were born. The children have grown up in the restaurant and watching them grow and mature has been a delightful experience. They are polite, knowledgeable, excellent students, and reflect the values and work ethic one would expect from a family that has developed a small, successful business over several decades. The restaurant has always reflected the family-owned nature of the restaurant. When business was slow, one or both of the children were working on homework on a table in the corner or using a computer. While some reviews have commented on this in a negative way, I found it charming and reflecting the values of the parents raising their kids. They were fully immersed in running the family business. I have lived in large cities, enjoyed dining in gourmet restaurants in France, Germany, England etc. and on luxury cruise ships with a staff of experienced chefs for different cultural tastes. I appreciate the difference in the quality available in a well-prepared meal with fresh ingredients. Large cities inevitably have some chef owned restaurants that stand out. Taking the time to find them is worth the effort. The food is almost always fresher, prepared with style and experience and the pride of the craft is evident in the quality of the food. Most of these restaurants are more expensive and in many cases getting a reservation requires an effort in an area with a large population and an established clientele. The salads at Nicholas' are always fresh. I do not how or where the fresh tomatoes are obtained but they are always on the salad, even during the winter months. The lettuce is always crisp. My preference is to specify a piece of hot pita bread to accompany the salad. My favorite meal here always includes green beans. They are fresh, well seasoned and always cooked perfectly. There is no problem substituting french fries that come with some dishes with the green beans. It is a personal preference but the beans are healthier and the best I have ever eaten. In fact, ordering a large salad with a side order of green beans is a good option for those who are seeking a low calorie, delicious meal. For those who appreciate a good steak, try a filet mignon with a baked potato and green beans. The meat has always been very tender and cooked exactly as ordered (medium rare)—even the smaller size of filet. The seasoning was better than similar meals I have ordered at restaurants in larger cities and that cost twice as much (but with the plate sitting on white cotton table cloths) as this meal which is only about $21. The pepper steak is another excellent option. We have eaten it at this restaurant too many times to count and this dish is always served with the same quality result. There are several desserts available.The baklava is cooked in-house and the result is always the same: a light brown color for the dough in this dish with plenty of walnuts in the center. Other desserts are also available and provided by a local baker. Try the chocolate cake with marshmallow if a delightful taste is your choice for a dessert without regard to whatever the calorie count may be in this dish. As this is a chef owned restaurant, if there is a particular meal that a person desires, calling a day or two in advance may result in a person being able to order and enjoy a special meal that is not on the menu. No doubt, it depends on availability and the time available but worth the experience. If you are in Tullahoma and have not done so, Nicholas' Restaurant is worth a visit.

I had the Greek salad and lamb gyro- the salad came out fast but it was definitely fresh and delicious. My lamb gyro followed in a timely manner. It came with lettuce, onions, tomatoes and taziki sauce. It was a large portion for lunch so I did take home and finish the gyro for supper. This is a small, quaint family owned restaurant. The owner is also the chef and takes pride in what he prepares. No fuss, no frills just really delicious Greek food! I would love to see some stuffed tomatoes or peppers and maybe spanakopita! I visit tullahoma regularly and will definitely be back! Great place, give it a try’

Beef stroganoff sauce was a little to thin. Sweet tea was great! Kabobs were good. Service was good!