Among the many iconic businesses that have and continue to make our city special, Nick’s Restaurant & Lounge holds a uniquely special place – one five decades in the making. 

I sat down with co-owner Nick Philson to discuss the history and future of the Cookeville staple for the cover of this edition of Cookeville Lifestyle Magazine. 

On beginnings and how Nick’s has evolved over the years he stated, “Our story begins in 1971 with our father Nick Philson partnering with Harry Zaharias at El Toro Steak House. In the 1990s, to clear up any confusion about it being a Mexican restaurant and Nick Philson buying out the partnership, Nick’s Restaurant was established. Throughout our childhood and teenage years, we were active in the business from seating guests to washing dishes and bussing tables. While we both attended and later graduated from Tennessee Technological University, we worked full-time in the family business, eventually moving to management. In 2005, our father became ill with Lou Gehrig’s disease, also known as ALS, and was forced to quickly retire from the restaurant – he did well for a Greek immigrant with no money or education. At this point, we stepped up to become owners/managers.” 

While Nick and his sister Nichole Wilson have successfully continued the vision established by their father as leaders and owners, they are quick to deflect the credit for the flourishing of the restaurant onto others. 

Philson stated,  “None of this would be possible without the thousands of people who have helped with Nick’s over the years. So much construction, repairs, countless deliveries (it’s crazy to think how many boxes have come in the kitchen door), and especially the employees! We like to refer to them as co-workers – there is no telling how many people have worked here over the years. Our current staff is remarkable, we have some long time people who keep everything moving forward. Our staff is amazing!”

Beyond a skilled team, Nick and Nichole view their customers as family, and co-builders in the business into which they have poured their talent, time, and passion. 

“Hands down, we have the best, most loyal customer base!! We have watched parents raise children who become customers and now bring their children. The confidence shown in Nick’s for all types of events- from birthdays, rehearsal dinners, and all sorts of holiday gatherings, especially the outpouring love we receive for Christmas gatherings, is incredible,” Philson reflected. 

Even though Nick’s has been here for more than 50 years, and sits atop the hill that overlooks Jefferson Ave like a restaurant crown jewel, many in the city have never dined there – the siblings hope that changes as a result of this feature. 

When asked what message he had for those who’ve never experienced Nick’s, Philson said, “Come try us! We are a local place trying to provide good food that’s value priced in a relaxed atmosphere. We are a casual dining experience, for everyday people. We serve hand cut choice steaks, all natural hormone-free chicken, seafood, pasta, and fresh salads. We’re known for homemade French onion soup, roasted prime rib, and ice cream pie – we call that combo the “Cookeville Standard.” I would love to know how many we have served over the five decades! Nothing about Nick’s is super fancy – we just offer good food. We love reservations but those are not mandatory. Also, we have two private rooms, that can hold 30 people and 60 people respectively, that are available to be reserved for a variety of lunch and dinner functions.”

To end our interview, I asked Nick, what he would like to say to the people of Cookeville. He stated, “We cannot express all the gratitude we have for 54 years of serving the Upper Cumberland! Cookeville is fortunate to have so many local unique places,  we are humbled that our guests make Nick’s a stop in their dining rotation.” Philson continued, “We are shocked and honored to be featured in the magazine because there are so many wonderful places here. We have so much appreciation for what our community is and all the small businesses around us. We are extremely grateful to Cookeville Lifestyle for showcasing our story. There is no place we would rather be, than Cookeville, Tennessee!”

Before writing this piece, Nick and Nichole asked that I come dine (for free) at Nick’s. I was served a delicious meal, but more than that, kindness. The service was timely, professional, and accurate, the food was fresh and flavorful, and the atmosphere was one of warmth. My experience made penning this article so much easier – I truly believe in Nick’s and the amazing people who make it run. 

If you haven’t spent an evening on the hill at Nick’s, it’s my recommendation that you visit soon. You won’t regret it. 

Thanks to Nichole, Nick, and the entire Nick’s family for allowing us to feature you in this edition of Cookeville Lifestyle Magazine! 

– photography by Abby Weeden, written by Andrew Buckner