This is from 1995 when my Band - "Random Dog Band" took out 50 other bands winning the NoVa "Battle of the Bands" hosted at Nick's to take the title. This was for Original acts only (No cover songs). It was a Rock n Roll bar back in those days. I remember we played the next week and members from "Bad Company" were there checking us out as they were playing the next evening. Sad to see the place go. I mean - I had not been there in 20 years, but it was the last place standing from the 1989-1996 my band was still in the mix. Places like the Bayou and Jaxx have already been long gone. Stay Safe, hope after Covid19 is gone a new place for entertainment can be put in that spot.
Mike Kimble
It was a great place. Closed down due to covid. Rest in peace.
Chris S.
Our first time to Nick's my wife and I were extremely excited. We've been living in the area for a while now, love country and were looking forward to a live band and dancing. We found a sitter, cleared a couple of hours off of our schedules and planned on coming and having some fun. We arrived, 10$ cover for guys, nothing for the ladies. We were asked about line dancing classes. We weren't interested since it was our first time out. There is a large dance floor, a 4 corner bar and then seating for waiter servic and a huge dance floor. Standard bar food, wings, burgers , nachos. No PBR on tap, bottles or cans, which, I guess is some kind of statement. At seven we were able to find a place at the bar pretty easy and there were a few tables for service open. We found out later the band starts at 9, line dancing class is from 8-845, however there wasn't any music. No jukebox, no dj , nothing. Renovate this house or something else from HGTV was in the TV's. I've got plenty experience in country bars. Played in them, ate in them, hell I've slept in them. Nicks is a very northern Virginia version of a true country bar. Not a knock, but it is very NOVAized... With that being said, had they had country music playing where, if we wanted in that hour we were there and no one was on the dance floor we coulda danced, that would have been great. If they would have had PBR or Lone Star that would have been better. As we were leaving (9 due to babysitter availability) the place started to lived up. Cowboy boots, flannel, George straight hats started to come in, so it certainly livens up. I'd say my gripes, half are easy fixes (PBR, music, whatever) and the other half are my fault for not coming later. I'd love to come back after 9, or be able to stay until the music starts because you could tell, what it looks like at 7, is not what it looks like at 10.
Ted Kidwell
Good place to go for good fun
Endy L.
I agree with the other reviews that say the attitudes and service are a bit dim. It's really stuffy and smells bad inside.....perhaps it's BO? Not worth the cover, and not enough parking.
Kelsey K.
I just recently moved here from the west coast and have been looking all over for a place to dance. I came to Nick's on a Thursday and tried out west coast swing. It was a good experience overall and I met some nice people. However, I'm really bummed to learn there is not much of line dancing at a country bar. There is instead a live band on Friday and Saturday, leaving little room for those who want to actually do line dances to their favorite songs / dances. I know this area is not as big on dancing, especially from where I came from, but it could be. I'm used to places with a bit more organization as far as when dancing and live music is played. This place has two dance floors and I'm not sure how that functions. I'm sure there could be a really great use for it, but I don't am not really seeing it. I just wish there was a night dedicated to line dancing and ballroom (waltz, west coast, two step, horseshoe, etc). People want to dance!!!! Willing to give it another shot though.
Jacob P.
A fun and welcoming place to learn how to dance, meet new people and enjoy a few drinks. The bands are good and fun to dance to, the karaoke is what you'd expect, the dance set in the back is always a hit, and enjoy a breeze outside if it gets a little hot. The hard working staff enjoy getting to know you and always finds a way to bring a family feeling to the establishment. Anyone can be on the floor to dance, anyone can sing karaoke, and if you are that good you can do both! Burgers and shareable's are better than every restaurant in the area. It is worth it to come out at least once.
MADREDNECK510
I've been going to nicks for almost a year and there's a reason. I like the people, the bartenders, and the rest of the staff. During certain days it gets very busy but I'm antisocial at times so that's to no fault of their own. There are two side to this dive bar, front and back. The front consists of a restaurant feel and line dancing, where as the back is karaoke, and a bar ran by two friendly staff members. Will I suggest this for a city slicker? Probably not due to the country music. Also, this place is packed with active duty military and veterans alike! Definitely will continue going
Redneck V.
I've been going to nicks for almost a year and there's a reason. I like the people, the bartenders, and the rest of the staff. During certain days it gets very busy but I'm antisocial at times so that's to no fault of their own. There are two side to this dive bar, front and back. The front consists of a restaurant feel and line dancing, where as the back is karaoke, and a bar ran by two friendly staff members. Will I suggest this for a city slicker? Probably not due to the country music. Also, this place is packed with active duty military and veterans alike! Definitely will continue going!
Costi marculescu
Ambient was ok. But waiting at the bar for 15 min to be told by the bartender that she os busy helping other people.
I have been a regular for the past two years and the people and employees at Nicks are like an extension of my family. The employment there is kind, fun and efficient! The bartenders all have great personalities and the line dancing instructors are the best around. Not to mention the food is so good and affordable. Karaoke and Line Dancing on the back floor and mostly two-step/westcoast on the front floor. Great friendly and welcoming place, even if you don't know how to dance! I didn't when I first came and the regulars and instructors have taught me everything I know. A great place to get you out of the box!
Travis Oden
Thursdays are pretty boring for the younger crowd. Would not recommend at all. No country music even played and he wouldn't take requests.
Stuart Herring
I’m a guitarist that’s played Nick’s several times. An they are one of the Best an funnest Crowds to play in front of. Because they appreciate good music and love to dance.so by far Nick’s is one of my favorite places to play out of all the Venues. I’ve played and not to mention the food is fantastic. And they have great prices on their drinks. So get out there and check them out .If you love to dance and you’re around Alexandria or DC you’ll have the time of your life.
Nicole B.
Was here about five years ago, and though I'm not a country music fan it was a fun night. The place was packed and the staff was friendly. Flash forward to last weekend, and it was a completely different story. I have a friend who loves line dancing, so we decided to check it out. The person at the door demanded $10/per person which is a rip off. I can't tell you what that paid for. The bartender was pleasant and attentive, and quite frankly the highlight of the place. I appreciate a good dive bar, but Nick's this time around was simply disappointing. There couldn't have been more than 15 people there. There may be a better night to go, but based on this experience, I'm not jumping at the opportunity to go again. Nick's is kind of out of the way and not near much else, making it a destination spot. Given that, they need to give people a reason to go there.
Devon R.
As a regular, here's some helpful input! FOOD: Delicious. Never ordered something I didn't like. Their honey garlic wings are mouth-watering, and I'm always excited to try their new specials because their cook is definitely talented! From salmon specials to balsamic basil chicken sandwiches - you can't lose. MUSIC: It's a country bar, but I've known plenty of people who aren't country-crazy and still go there for the good vibes or karaoke in the back, which has more of that nightclub feel and some entertaining line-dancing after 11 pm. SERVICE: Bartenders are attentive and friendly. This is a place you can go with the "just make me something fruity" mindset and still get a yummy drink. The bartenders are quick even when the bar is slammed, which is generally on Fridays. They also have some interesting shots in the back bar, but you'll have to see for yourself! ATMOSPHERE: Security is on point and are quick to respond if there is inappropriate behavior or if someone is getting too rowdy. Never felt unsafe inside or out front of Nick's. Staff and regulars here are welcoming to all, which is why I will continue to bring friends here.
This is from 1995 when my Band - "Random Dog Band" took out 50 other bands winning the NoVa "Battle of the Bands" hosted at Nick's to take the title. This was for Original acts only (No cover songs). It was a Rock n Roll bar back in those days. I remember we played the next week and members from "Bad Company" were there checking us out as they were playing the next evening. Sad to see the place go. I mean - I had not been there in 20 years, but it was the last place standing from the 1989-1996 my band was still in the mix. Places like the Bayou and Jaxx have already been long gone. Stay Safe, hope after Covid19 is gone a new place for entertainment can be put in that spot.
It was a great place. Closed down due to covid. Rest in peace.
Our first time to Nick's my wife and I were extremely excited. We've been living in the area for a while now, love country and were looking forward to a live band and dancing. We found a sitter, cleared a couple of hours off of our schedules and planned on coming and having some fun. We arrived, 10$ cover for guys, nothing for the ladies. We were asked about line dancing classes. We weren't interested since it was our first time out. There is a large dance floor, a 4 corner bar and then seating for waiter servic and a huge dance floor. Standard bar food, wings, burgers , nachos. No PBR on tap, bottles or cans, which, I guess is some kind of statement. At seven we were able to find a place at the bar pretty easy and there were a few tables for service open. We found out later the band starts at 9, line dancing class is from 8-845, however there wasn't any music. No jukebox, no dj , nothing. Renovate this house or something else from HGTV was in the TV's. I've got plenty experience in country bars. Played in them, ate in them, hell I've slept in them. Nicks is a very northern Virginia version of a true country bar. Not a knock, but it is very NOVAized... With that being said, had they had country music playing where, if we wanted in that hour we were there and no one was on the dance floor we coulda danced, that would have been great. If they would have had PBR or Lone Star that would have been better. As we were leaving (9 due to babysitter availability) the place started to lived up. Cowboy boots, flannel, George straight hats started to come in, so it certainly livens up. I'd say my gripes, half are easy fixes (PBR, music, whatever) and the other half are my fault for not coming later. I'd love to come back after 9, or be able to stay until the music starts because you could tell, what it looks like at 7, is not what it looks like at 10.
Good place to go for good fun
I agree with the other reviews that say the attitudes and service are a bit dim. It's really stuffy and smells bad inside.....perhaps it's BO? Not worth the cover, and not enough parking.
I just recently moved here from the west coast and have been looking all over for a place to dance. I came to Nick's on a Thursday and tried out west coast swing. It was a good experience overall and I met some nice people. However, I'm really bummed to learn there is not much of line dancing at a country bar. There is instead a live band on Friday and Saturday, leaving little room for those who want to actually do line dances to their favorite songs / dances. I know this area is not as big on dancing, especially from where I came from, but it could be. I'm used to places with a bit more organization as far as when dancing and live music is played. This place has two dance floors and I'm not sure how that functions. I'm sure there could be a really great use for it, but I don't am not really seeing it. I just wish there was a night dedicated to line dancing and ballroom (waltz, west coast, two step, horseshoe, etc). People want to dance!!!! Willing to give it another shot though.
A fun and welcoming place to learn how to dance, meet new people and enjoy a few drinks. The bands are good and fun to dance to, the karaoke is what you'd expect, the dance set in the back is always a hit, and enjoy a breeze outside if it gets a little hot. The hard working staff enjoy getting to know you and always finds a way to bring a family feeling to the establishment. Anyone can be on the floor to dance, anyone can sing karaoke, and if you are that good you can do both! Burgers and shareable's are better than every restaurant in the area. It is worth it to come out at least once.
I've been going to nicks for almost a year and there's a reason. I like the people, the bartenders, and the rest of the staff. During certain days it gets very busy but I'm antisocial at times so that's to no fault of their own. There are two side to this dive bar, front and back. The front consists of a restaurant feel and line dancing, where as the back is karaoke, and a bar ran by two friendly staff members. Will I suggest this for a city slicker? Probably not due to the country music. Also, this place is packed with active duty military and veterans alike! Definitely will continue going
I've been going to nicks for almost a year and there's a reason. I like the people, the bartenders, and the rest of the staff. During certain days it gets very busy but I'm antisocial at times so that's to no fault of their own. There are two side to this dive bar, front and back. The front consists of a restaurant feel and line dancing, where as the back is karaoke, and a bar ran by two friendly staff members. Will I suggest this for a city slicker? Probably not due to the country music. Also, this place is packed with active duty military and veterans alike! Definitely will continue going!
Ambient was ok. But waiting at the bar for 15 min to be told by the bartender that she os busy helping other people.
Restaurantji Recommends
I have been a regular for the past two years and the people and employees at Nicks are like an extension of my family. The employment there is kind, fun and efficient! The bartenders all have great personalities and the line dancing instructors are the best around. Not to mention the food is so good and affordable. Karaoke and Line Dancing on the back floor and mostly two-step/westcoast on the front floor. Great friendly and welcoming place, even if you don't know how to dance! I didn't when I first came and the regulars and instructors have taught me everything I know. A great place to get you out of the box!
Thursdays are pretty boring for the younger crowd. Would not recommend at all. No country music even played and he wouldn't take requests.
I’m a guitarist that’s played Nick’s several times. An they are one of the Best an funnest Crowds to play in front of. Because they appreciate good music and love to dance.so by far Nick’s is one of my favorite places to play out of all the Venues. I’ve played and not to mention the food is fantastic. And they have great prices on their drinks. So get out there and check them out .If you love to dance and you’re around Alexandria or DC you’ll have the time of your life.
Was here about five years ago, and though I'm not a country music fan it was a fun night. The place was packed and the staff was friendly. Flash forward to last weekend, and it was a completely different story. I have a friend who loves line dancing, so we decided to check it out. The person at the door demanded $10/per person which is a rip off. I can't tell you what that paid for. The bartender was pleasant and attentive, and quite frankly the highlight of the place. I appreciate a good dive bar, but Nick's this time around was simply disappointing. There couldn't have been more than 15 people there. There may be a better night to go, but based on this experience, I'm not jumping at the opportunity to go again. Nick's is kind of out of the way and not near much else, making it a destination spot. Given that, they need to give people a reason to go there.
As a regular, here's some helpful input! FOOD: Delicious. Never ordered something I didn't like. Their honey garlic wings are mouth-watering, and I'm always excited to try their new specials because their cook is definitely talented! From salmon specials to balsamic basil chicken sandwiches - you can't lose. MUSIC: It's a country bar, but I've known plenty of people who aren't country-crazy and still go there for the good vibes or karaoke in the back, which has more of that nightclub feel and some entertaining line-dancing after 11 pm. SERVICE: Bartenders are attentive and friendly. This is a place you can go with the "just make me something fruity" mindset and still get a yummy drink. The bartenders are quick even when the bar is slammed, which is generally on Fridays. They also have some interesting shots in the back bar, but you'll have to see for yourself! ATMOSPHERE: Security is on point and are quick to respond if there is inappropriate behavior or if someone is getting too rowdy. Never felt unsafe inside or out front of Nick's. Staff and regulars here are welcoming to all, which is why I will continue to bring friends here.