Sop
Nicky’s Hot Dog is a must-visit spot if you’re in the Hotel Central area for a business trip. I arrived around 11:00 am, and while foot traffic was light, parking was still scarce, possibly due to sharing with a neighboring business. The place is tiny and old, with no updates to the exterior or interior, but that’s not why you’re there. I skipped the namesake hot dog and went straight for the Italian beef sandwich.
They used to be cash-only, but now they accept major cards, which was a relief since I don’t carry cash. The workers are packed into the minuscule kitchen like sardines, but ordering is straightforward. Just tell the guy at the counter what you want, and he writes it down on paper. A couple of minutes later, your order is ready.
There’s nothing fancy about Nicky’s, so if that’s what you’re after, head to a major chain. I ordered a beef sandwich with fries and an RC Cola for around $14. The sandwich came wrapped in foil and paper, with the bottom half soaked in beef juice. The beef was perfect, the bread was soft, and the hot peppers were just right. The sandwich was delicious and paired perfectly with the golden fries and cola. I’m so glad these places still exist, and I have much respect for the workers who move at warp speed to handle the orders, especially as it got jam-packed as soon as I left.
… moreLon Passoff
This is one of those iconic spots with great, really fast food, and incredible service. For a fast food dog, hamburger, and more this is definitely the spot. The portion of fries was awesome.
… moreJill S
It’s the perfect place for a quick bite. If it’s out of your way, go anyway… The hamburger was sooo good, exactly what I needed on my way to the airport. My boyfriend got the Chicago dog and we split each. They were so good and the seasoned tomatoes I could have eaten a whole plateful.
We both agreed the burger was phenomenal, though. We can’t wait to go back. We ate right there in the parking lot (in our car). Definitely recommend! The menu is decent and fairly priced.
… moreMichael Boroczk
I love simple and authentic local neighborhood Chicago hot dog places like Nicky’s. Fast and simple food. They have a wide range of Chicago food. In other reviews, they say cash only, but they do take credit cards.
… moreDan Baxter
Haven’t been there since I moved about 8 years ago. But my daughter never had a Big Baby or a Pizza Puff, until today. Just like it has been since I was a kid.
… moreSun Kissed By Steph
Great little spot for burgers and fries.
Plus they had RC cola!!
Food came out fast and was very reasonably priced. I love places like this. We’ll be returning for more!
… moreBrandon Andrews
Great little food spot, went in for some Chicago dogs, very little wait, huge bag of fries with the dogs, will definitely go back! Delicious
… moreAps
This joint is about 2 miles west of my mom’s townhouse. We love to stop by on Saturday for a quick lunch. The food are reasonable priced and tasty. I am saying this only because of my extensive visits to many similar local eateries. My favorite is their grilled chicken on pita bread garnished with grilled onions. Unlike many other places they marinate their chicken with paprika to give that extra kick/flavor. I took the clue and replicate it at home
… moremarcin kulak
If I could id give them no stars. Use to be my favorite place to grab a burger. Now when you call you won’t get an answer.
… moreDave Pasquale
I was so disappointed. I flew in to chicago and wanted a chicago dog. I ended up going on yelp for the best place to get a hot dog. Nicky’s came near the top and it was close so i tried it. I should have typed in Vienna beef. Such a disappointment with whatever they were serving. Thank goodness i drowned it in cheese and celery salt. Only reason this plane got 2 stars was because they have enough fries in 1 serving to feed 3-4. I won’t be returning.
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