Nick's Tavern & Deli — Restaurant in Clemson

One of the best lowkey dive bars in downtown clemson. Cannot rave enough about Nicks. Known as more of the graduate/professor bar, they cater well to people who are nit picky about their cocktails and food selections, but each come at a very reasonable price. Known for their mozzarella sticks (best in Clemson).

The bartenders are always super knowledgeable and friendly; they know how to pair good cocktails well and even create cocktails that may not be listed on the menu for you. The best selection of draft beers and mead as well. I would also boast the best priced and best tasting shrimp po boy in Clemson (Walk-on’s can’t even compare).

The atmosphere at Nick’s is perfect; the decor and lighting and grunge feel really adds to the overall experience. It’s a great chill vibe for older students and staff who genuinely care about food and drink quality. The bathrooms are also kept clean and single stall; a rarity among bars downtown. Nicks is a must stop to enjoy a fine drink and good mozzarella sticks if you’re ever in town looking for...

What can I say about Nick's? It's been around probably 3 times as long as I have and I'm pretty sure everyone who grew up or went to school here knows it. It's got a chill pub-like atmosphere that isn't found in most Clemson bars. It feels almost wholesome in a way, which is how I like to feel before I get really messed up on expensive craft beer. It's not a place to drink cheap. It's not the place to go for dancing or live music. It's the people that make it really great. It's super cozy and friendly and they have the best microwave cheeseburger in town. Seriously, the bar food here is pretty good, and while I won't say it's the best value ever, the food is truly satisfying and prepared with love by really nice people. Also, you can get Redstone mead here at liquor store prices. Everyone should try Nick's once, and then most of those people should never come back because the ones that fall in love with it need the booth space and quiet to do smart...

The end of an era. So Nick's has been sold. Apparently to the owners of TTTs. So I suspect it will lose its niche and become a carbon copy of that joint. Odds are the new owners have no idea why some preferred Nick's over TTTs but that magic is sure to evaporate.

Additionally I am hearing they have let go of some staff in classic South Carolina "at will" fashion. With zero notice, zero severance and zero explanation. Which is scummy behavior and certainly is not going to motivate me or other regulars to give them a chance.

If you are going to clear out the staff we have enjoyed for years, expect us to pass the word and clear out of our former favorite bar for one that better respects both...