Nick's San Clemente

I don't know how this place doesn't have 5 stars. I have been a faithful customer for over a year now and have not been disappointed one single time. Food = excellent. Service = amazing. Pre and post food service is above everything around here. Management actually cares (rare). Atmosphere is perfect. Cleanliness could beat a hospital. I am always impressed. The only downfall you will have is that there is always a line, which speaks wonders, so plan ahead and prepare for an excellent evening.

We celebrate Valentine's Day by taking the train from LA to all points anywhere. This time  we set our sights on SC to go to Nicks. They delivered with everything we wanted that day: beautiful window seat to watch the world go by, savory bloodys, fish and chips were mouthwatering, roast beef sandwich was sumptuous. The side of Mac n" Cheese is a must. Service was friendly and attentive -- learned the South of Nicks (which is actually north in the same area) serves Mexican fare. This will be a return visit whenever we in the area.

Ridiculous. This place is ridiculously good. I want to be fat just so I can eat here all the time and not care. I had the Prime Rib Dip which fell apart in my mouth. Soft, tasty, and excellent. Best dip I've had, and I've had many. I ordered spinach for my side, and immediately wanted more. We also ordered the Fried Deviled Eggs...another winner. I tried my wife's Blackened Halibut Sandwich and wanted to come back so I could order one of my own. Any one of these menu items is good enough to warrant a return visit, but all of them together make it one of the better restaurants I've eaten at in awhile.

The only disappointment was the asparagus fries. After reading so many other reviews that praised them, I had to give them a try. I love asparagus, however the fried portion would just slip off and leave a soggy asparagus spear underneath. The process doesn't leave them with the correct texture..too chewy, wet, and drained of taste. I would prefer the subtler but more interesting taste of asparagus prepared well than mediocre and covered up by a fried crust.

Nonetheless, besides the fried asparagus, everything else at this restaurant is excellent. And, I certainly will return.