Niko’s Southside Grill: Food with Flair Mediterranean cuisine is noted for its use of fresh, typically local ingredients. Olive oil, garlic, fresh vegetables, grilled meats combine to make Mediterranean dishes some of the most flavorful food you can find, not to mention some of the healthiest. Niko’s, downtown on Cowart Street, proves this daily with their delicious cuisine. In 2007, Niko’s opened as Niko’s Southside Grill, under ownership of Nick Kyriakadis. It was Nick’s goal to create a restaurant where patrons could find a comfortable blend of Southern and Mediterranean fares. Excellent service coupled with fantastic food and a come-as-you-are attitude has made Niko’s one of Chattanooga’s most popular restaurants. Using local produce and meats makes it one of the most sustainable, as well as supporting local agriculture. With warm colors, brick walls, contemporary art, and hardwood floors, Niko’s has an air of sophistication, the look of a posh, trendy, metropolitan eatery. It is; but don’t be fooled. The food is amazing; the aesthetics of the restaurant is incredible. But what really makes Niko’s special is their temperament – laid back, “everyone is welcome”, “come on in.” “Flavors of the South with tastes of Mediterranean,” says the Niko’s web site. How’s this for fusion? Fried green tomatoes topped with proscuitto, arugula, marinated goat cheese, and a roasted tomato vinaigrette…or maybe Eggplant Napoleon, fried eggplant layered with spinach, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh mozzarella and feta cheese topped with red and white sauces. What could be better than fresh and healthy Mediterranean fares combined with the comfort Niko’s, Corner of 14th and Cowart, Chattanooga, TN. foods of the South? Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-9:30pm, Closed Sun. (423) 266-6511. nikossauthside.com
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