Nick's Tavern

221 Main St, Lemont, IL 60439, United States
+1 630-257-6564
$$$ Bar , American restaurant
(698 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Nick's Tavern is a compact, no-frills bar and American restaurant nestled on Main Street in Lemont, serving up some of the area's most talked-about burgers alongside a straightforward selection of drinks. Locals come here for the hearty, handmade burgers that steer clear of anything frozen or bland—expect juicy patties loaded with familiar toppings that give a sincere nod to classic American diner fare.

Inside, the space is tight with only a handful of four-tops and around a dozen bar seats, creating an intimate, bustling vibe especially on weekend evenings and lunch hours. The service, often managed by just one or two dedicated bartenders and servers, reflects a balanced mix of genuine care and the occasional wait, so dropping in during off-peak hours (like early lunch around 11am) can lead to a smoother experience and a chance to settle into the relaxed, local atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The drink menu pairs well with the food, featuring familiar drafts like Miller Lite and Killians Irish Red, alongside house wines by the glass and classic bar cocktails—Nick's Bloody Mary, especially, earns notes for its generous bacon garnish and thoughtful preparation.

Nick's is best known for its burgers, ranging from a manageable "Little Nick" portion to the full 1lb "Famous Nick Burger" done just right, often accompanied by tempting sides such as warm pretzel sticks served with house-made honey mustard. This comfort-food approach extends to other staples like the Italian beef sandwich and the chicken and fish sandwiches, making it a solid spot for a casual, no-nonsense meal with friends or family.

One important detail for visitors: Nick's operates on a cash-only basis and doesn’t offer fries, which is worth noting when planning your visit. Price-wise, the menu and drinks are reasonable, reflecting the local, neighborhood bar feel rather than a polished dining experience.

Whether you’re in the mood to watch a game at the bar over a Pabst Blue Ribbon, or settle at a small table for a satisfying burger, Nick's Tavern serves up a down-to-earth, welcoming environment where regulars and newcomers alike appreciate the straightforward, quality-driven approach to classic American bar food.

Highlights
Has bar games
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves food
Serves food at bar
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

11:00 AM - 9:30 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 9:30 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 9:30 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 8:00 PM

698 Reviews
Lisa Grzelak

30 Dec 2025

We were finally able to get to Nick's and try their famous burger! We started out with a Bloody Mary and Yuengling beer. Our bartender Jen made it so delish and it came with bacon! Tried the Warm Pretzel Sticks and while we are not typically fans of mustard, this was honey mustard and we both liked it. On to the burger...we ordered the little Nick as the regular is a whole 1lb burger. They don't do fries so I re-lived my childhood and went with Andy Capp Cheddar Fries. The burger was cooked perfectly with grilled onions and with the pickles was definitely one of the best burgers I've had. Cute little place. They only accept cash, with signs everywhere and have an ATM inside.

Steven Hall

10 Dec 2025

Tiny place with maybe 8 4 tops and 12 seats at the bar. The service was excellent despite being crazy busy at 6pm on Saturday evening. It did take a bit for our order but we got regular updates from the server, so she did an excellent job despite how busy she was. The burgers are juicy and delicious. We're definitely planning to return but will probably choose a less popular time to go. It is cash only but they do have an ATM.

Bill Rizzo

17 Nov 2025

Just got done having a late lunch at Nicks. Here’s my recap: the place was packed so you know this place is gong to be good. We sat outside because inside had no seating. Unfortunately the nice bartender had to handle the whole place in and out so service was slow. She did the best she could based on the crowd. We ordered the 1lb burger - and it was absolutely delicious! Just know that this place doesn’t do fries - just bags of chips. Great beer selection. Don’t plan on getting your food quick - bit worth the wait. They make them individually with great care!!! Definitely going back.

Carl Day

16 Nov 2025

Great local run restaurant. Burgers are not some frozen bland burger, but tasty hand made. Just remember there is no fries and it’s cash only here. Beers and food are very reasonably priced. I highly recommend.

Lorelei E

13 Nov 2025

My brother brought us here for the lunch hour and delicious food. My son has a love of good burgers and Nick's has made his list of great burgers in Illinois. We got there ahead of the lunch crowd. And the locals do gather there regularly so best to get there around 11am for your lunch. Even if it gets a bit crowded, the atmosphere is wonderful and welcoming from staff and patrons, so you'll have a good experience regardless. Sports memorabilia and days gone by on display in a neighborhood tavern setting. Bar and video gambling available. The entire staff was welcoming and friendly and their food is made with love (his burger even had a heart shaped put of ketchup because he told them he loves hamburgers and cheeseburgers). Half pound and full poud cheeseburgers, reuben and pretzel sticks all recommend The kids got a special treat of ice cream sandwiches post meal and had huge smiles! Thank you for making their day! Whether youre traveling through or local, and haven't discovered this hidden gem on Main Street in Lemont, make sure you add it to you must try burger list!

Andy Larson

03 Nov 2025

It's all in what you are looking for, but Nick's checked all the boxes for me. Classic neighborhood bar, pure T red blooded America lovin, cash only joint that just does it right. Great friendly service and a really solid simple menu with some gems. I had the Italian Beef sandwich with spicy peppers. Paper thin beef that nearly melts in your mouth, and a nice ajus dipping sauce. Skip the bun and get an extra side of peppers. You'll love it. One of the gems is the warm pretzel sticks, wow. Salty, buttery, warm with that ideal pretzel tang. Go for the cheese sauce, it can't be good for you but it is just plain good. Fantastic music mix, Petty, Floyd, Cage the Elephant, Chris Stapleton, Eagles.... loud enough to enjoy but not so loud you have to yell. Pick an evening when you can sit outside and enjoy people watching in Lamount, it's hard to beat. And yes they are a bar and had a solid menu of beers, most importantly for a meal like this, Guinness. Cheers and God Bless America!

Neil Bunag

28 Oct 2025

Rated as the best burger recently so I have to try it. It did not disappoint. Love the burger. Not the best I had but it's so good and so large. Got to try it.

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