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By mid-February, the growing dining scene in Fort Collins will add Nick's Homestyle to its line-up. After 25 years in the restaurant industry, Nick Doyle, former executive general manager of the Kitchen Next Door (Boulder) and regional manager for The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurants (Colorado) was ready to open his own place. Nick's Homestyle will feature homemade Italian cuisine and New York-style pie.
Doyle, a CSU alum and resident of FoCO of 16 years hopes that the new restuarant will become a go-to hangout for the community.
"I love this town; it's had a big impact on my life and who I am. Being here, to see it actually happen, is really cool."
Nick's Homestyle chef Brian Shaner helped design the menu alongside James Beard-nominated chef Clay Conley. Italian-American fare is at the core of the offerings as well as New York-style pizza prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The homemade ricota gnocchi will be a signature dish at Nick's and so will the chicken parm. The restaurant will also feature fresh clams and porchetta, among others.
Guests will be able to sip on beer from New Belgium, Odell Brewing Co., and Funkwerks while enjoying their little slice of Italy. Local craft beers will also be featured on tap. If you're not a beer drinker, wine on tap selections will be available. Cocktails with a little twist will also be available. Nick's will offer a weekday happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.
People spend a lot of time at home and at work - we want to be the third place where you spend time: after a bike ride, after the PTA meeting, or whatever may be the case. We want to be the first place that pops into your mind when you're figuring out where you want to go.
The space is big, with over 4,500 square feet and 145 seats and the decor has a contemporary feel, with an open-kitchen pizza bar, lounge, arcade room and TVs - perfect to watch the Rams.
Nick's Homestyle will be open seven days a week for lunch at 11 a.m. and dinner starting at 5 p.m.