A little over two months ago my absolute favorite spot in Newark closed its doors! Nick’s Restaurant, located at 28 Halsey Street, was no more. The college friendly, neighborhood bar, with its all American menu of burgers, chicken wings, and beer was about to make a big transformation and even I never saw it coming.
The restaurant formerly known as Nick’s has reopened as Nizi, a sophisticated eatery serving fresh sushi and Asian cuisine! Let me be clear, Nizi is not Nick’s with a new, fancier name. This is a totally different restaurant that co-owners Nick Yourth, Yong Sook Lee, and Seho Lee have opened together. In addition to the new name, Nizi boasts a new sushi bar, new chefs, a new Japanese themed decor, and a completely new menu.
Complimentary mussels after 3pm! (I ate them before I took this pic)
Gone are the days of fried chicken, sliders, and burritos. Instead, guests at Nizi are treated to a variety fresh sushi rolls made from tuna, eel, crab, shrimp, avocado, and much more. The menu also includes hot appetizers a la tempura and dumplings, traditional Japanese soup, and a few Korean options. Check out the full menu here. Still, being a devout fan of Nick’s I was very skeptical about this new direction, but had heard great things about the Lee’s from the fans of their previous restaurant in Rutherford. Nick is such a great owner that I gave it a try.
The new Nizi menu! The food is all Asian, fresh, and made to order
The food is great! If you’re a fan of sushi you’ll love the freshness and flavor of the dishes as well as the variety. If you’re new to sushi there are some great non-raw items you can try including Udon (Japanese noodle soup). Nizi still has the full liquor bar so you can still have a great drink courtesy of my favorite bartender Corey! The bar is open late (until 3:00am), so if you’re looking for a place to have that late night cocktail this is a great option!
TIP THIS GUY! Corey is still there bringing a great piece of Nick’s to Nizi!
To all the Nick’s fans give Nizi a try… It’s worth it! To the Nizi lovers, this location offers the same great food, service, and variety as Nizi’s Rutherford, which I hear is under new ownership and not as good! There is also a great ambiance, good service, and it is easily accessible!
JOIN NIZI FOR ITS GRAND OPENING FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 2012
Seeweed Salad was tasty!
Restaurant hours: Monday-Friday 11:30am-10:00pm, Saturday 3:00pm-10:00pm
Bar hours: Monday-Wednesday 11:30am-2:00am, Thursday & Friday: 11:30am-3:00am, Saturday 3:00pm-3:00am
973-622-5300, 28 Central Ave. Newark, NJ
Making food fresh!
Great decor and plenty of seating!