South of Nick’s Mexican Kitchen + Bar in San Clemente continues the legacy of the esteemed Nick’s Restaurants, delivering an exceptional dining experience that’s authentically Mexican with a refined touch. Having previously enjoyed Nick’s in Long Beach and Laguna Beach, our visit to their San Clemente location proved to be another resounding success. On a beautiful Sunday morning, we joined friends Kim and Mary, who journeyed from San Diego, eager to experience this highly-regarded establishment. South of Nick’s is perfectly situated in a charming Spanish-style building, conveniently located near Avenida Del Mar and its vibrant Sunday morning Farmer’s Market.
Arriving right as the doors opened at 10 a.m., our anticipation for a delicious brunch was high. Stepping inside, we were immediately captivated by the restaurant’s inviting ambiance. The interior boasts high beamed ceilings and a stylish bar area, leading to a spacious central dining room. South of Nick’s offers a variety of seating areas, each contributing to the restaurant’s overall warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Even though we were among the first guests, the restaurant quickly filled with patrons, a testament to its popularity and reputation as a premier Nick’s Mexican dining destination.
Dining area at Nick's Mexican in San Clemente
Interior Decor of Nick's Mexican Restaurant San Clemente
Ambiance inside South of Nick's Mexican Kitchen + Bar
For weekend brunch, available until 3 p.m., Nick’s Mexican presents three tempting options: the hearty Breakfast Burrito filled with Nueske’s bacon, hash browns, pico de gallo, jack cheese, avocado, cilantro, and scrambled eggs; Omar’s Skillet, featuring eggs your way, hash browns, chorizo, jalapenos, jack cheese, sour cream, house salsa, pico de gallo, avocado, black beans, and cilantro; and Huevos Rancheros, with fried eggs, ranchera beans, roasted tomato salsas, and crispy tortillas.
Patrons enjoying brunch at Nick's Mexican restaurant
As we explored the menu, we were treated to complimentary, freshly made tortilla chips accompanied by a trio of house-made salsas: mild, medium, and fiery hot. The “really hot” salsa lived up to its name, delivering a significant kick. After indulging in the chips and salsa, we were ready to order our main courses.
Complimentary chips and salsa at Nick's Mexican restaurant
Driven by our appetites, we started with the Queso Fundido appetizer. This rich and flavorful dish, a blend of jack and Oaxaca cheeses, roasted onion, poblano pepper, and pork chile verde, was served with warm, house-made flour tortillas. The Queso Fundido was an instant hit, earning rave reviews and quickly disappearing, despite its generous portion size – a testament to the exceptional quality of Nick’s Mexican cuisine.
For our main courses, Tracy and Mary both opted for Omar’s Skillet, a dish substantial enough to share, especially after appetizers. Tracy enjoyed her leftovers for dinner later that day, further highlighting the generous portions at Nick’s Mexican.
Omar's Skillet breakfast dish at Nick's Mexican restaurant
Close up of Omar's Skillet dish at Nick's Mexican
I decided to explore beyond the breakfast menu and chose the short rib tacos. These delectable tacos featured slow-braised short ribs, green tomatillo salsa, cilantro, white onions, picante salsa, avocado, radish, lime, and refried beans. The short rib tacos were a fantastic choice, showcasing the depth of flavor and culinary expertise that Nick’s Mexican is known for.
Short rib tacos at South of Nick's Mexican Kitchen + Bar
Kim selected the Enchilada combination, accompanied by Spanish rice and refried beans. With a choice of cheese, chicken, vegetable, chipotle chicken, or pork mole, Kim opted for a flavorful and satisfying enchilada dish.
As we left, we passed by the bustling open kitchen, the source of all the culinary delights we had just enjoyed.
Open Kitchen at South of Nick's Mexican Restaurant
Chefs preparing food in Nick's Mexican Kitchen
We also noticed an impressive bottle of premium tequila, Patron Lalique, priced at $450 per shot, a testament to the bar’s extensive and high-end offerings. While this particular tequila is exceptionally luxurious, Nick’s Mexican also provides a wide range of more affordable options, with margaritas ranging from $10 to $13 and a fully stocked bar catering to all tastes.
Premium Tequila Selection at Nick's Mexican Bar
Despite it being too early for us to indulge in alcoholic beverages on this visit, we are already planning to return to South of Nick’s for lunch or dinner to further explore their menu and bar offerings.
Stylish bar area at Nick's Mexican in San Clemente
With numerous enticing dishes yet to try, South of Nick’s Mexican Kitchen + Bar has solidified its place as a must-visit dining destination. Our third Nick’s restaurant experience has only reinforced our appreciation for their innovative menu, exceptional service, and knowledgeable staff. We eagerly anticipate visiting Nick’s newest location in Pasadena, Nick’s on South Lake, and expect another outstanding Nick’s Mexican experience.
MaiTaiTom Rating – 4.6 out of 5
South of Nick’s Mexican Kitchen + Bar
110 North El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
Phone: 949.481.4545
Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Parking: Street
Website: http://nicksrestaurants.com/south-of-nicks/
