Nico Kitchen + Bar Restaurant Review: A must try spot in Newark, NJ
Nico Kitchen & Bar
One Center Street
New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Newark, NJ
Nico Kitchen + Bar, located inside the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), has become one of Newark’s most recognizable dining spots thanks to its contemporary American menu, stylish setting, and convenient location for theater-goers.
⭐ History & Ownership
Nico Kitchen + Bar operates as NJPAC’s signature restaurant and bar, designed to serve both local diners and guests attending performances. The venue offers a relaxed, “good times + delicious vibes” destination offering American cuisine for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is managed in partnership with NJPAC’s hospitality team and is known for its approachable, performance-friendly dining model.
Known For:
- Pre-theater dining
- Contemporary American fare
- A relaxing, casual-elegant environment
- A friendly neighborhood bar experience
🍴 Food & Cuisine
Nico Kitchen + Bar serves Contemporary American cuisine with influences from bistro and Italian cooking
Style & Quality
- Dishes are plentiful, flavorful, and well-prepared, with several standout menu items
- The restaurant emphasizes fresh ingredients, though it does not focus on organic or farm-to-table.
Signature & Popular Dishes
- Avocado Caprese Salad
- Brick Chicken
- Lamb Shanks
- Margarita Pizza
- House-made desserts such as caramel ice cream and chocolate custard
Beverage Program
The bar features:
- Seasonal craft cocktails (e.g., pumpkin spice rumtini, rosemary ginger spritz, pear crisp margarita)
- Local beers from Newark Local, Hoboken Brewing, New Jersey Brewing Co., Cape May, and Brooklyn Brewery
🌆 Ambiance
Nico Kitchen + Bar blends casual elegance with a retro-inspired and warm atmosphere
Décor & Vibe
- Contemporary, stylish interior with a relaxed, inviting feel
- Retro touches and warm lighting
- Suitable for both casual meals and special occasions
Striking Features
- Located inside NJPAC, offering a cultural, arts-center backdrop
- A popular pre-show dining environment
- Indoor dining room and full bar area
Noise Level & Space
- Generally comfortable noise levels, though busier before performances
- Tables spaced reasonably for conversation
🤝 Service
Staff members are noted for their professionalism and attentiveness, contributing to a positive guest experience
- Friendly, welcoming staff
- Knowledgeable servers and bartenders
- Consistent service quality, even during busy pre-show periods
🔍 Other Factors
Policies & Practical Details
- Child-Friendly: Yes; menu and environment are suitable for families.
- Alcohol Service: Full bar with cocktails, wine, and local beers
- Dress Code: Casual to casual-elegant
- Parking: Convenient parking available via NJPAC garages and nearby lots.
- Private Parties: Nico offers private dining options and is frequently used for celebrations and group events
Recommended For
- Pre-theater dining
- Business lunches
- Casual nights out
- Groups and celebrations
- Visitors exploring downtown Newark
Not Recommended For
- Those seeking ultra-fine dining
- Guests wanting very quiet, intimate settings during pre-show rush
✅ What Sets Nico Kitchen + Bar Apart
- Direct connection to NJPAC, making it ideal for show nights
- A lively, stylish atmosphere with a neighborhood-bar feel
- A menu that balances comfort food with contemporary flair
- Strong service reputation and consistent guest satisfaction
🔧 What Could Be Improved
- Some dishes may vary in execution and could benefit from more consistency
- Limited hours (closed Sundays and Mondays) may restrict dining options for some guests
- Lack of outdoor dining or scenic views compared to other Newark restaurants
❤️ What I Like About This Restaurant
Nico Kitchen + Bar succeeds at being exactly what it aims to be: a relaxed, stylish, and reliable dining option in the heart of Newark’s arts district. The combination of friendly service, a well-rounded American menu, and a vibrant pre-show atmosphere makes it a standout choice for locals and visitors alike.
Updated: December 2025
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