Jim ‘N Nick’s – A Review

I had a chance to check out Jim 'N Nick's in Augusta recently, and here's my review.

So, a “new” BBQ spot opened in the area about 6 weeks ago.  Jim 'N Nick's is NOT a locally owned BBQ restaurant as so many of the establishments are in this area.  As a matter of fact, there are, as of this writing, 47 locations.  The most are in Georgia, 18.  There are 17 locations in Alabama, making sense since that’s where the first restaurant opened.

If you read the history of the restaurant, the first one opened in Birmingham, Alabama in 1985, in an old pizza restaurant.

We wanted to give them some time to get through the crowds that accompany the opening of a new restaurant in town, and we honestly wanted to give them some time to get the routine down.

So, three of us went off for lunch the other day.  A couple of things you should know right off the bat.  They are very committed to a drive thru business.  The look and coordination of the drive-thru would rival Chick-Fil-A.  The regional supervisor we spoke with said that “drive-thru” is a huge portion of their business.

The other thing you should know is that, like many BBQ places, you get in line, order your food and then take a seat.  It is not a restaurant where you sit, and someone takes your order.  Something to think about if you have a large party or are on a schedule.

When we arrived, the line was out the door, but honestly, I thought it moved quickly.  There is a generous menu, with even a couple of fish options.

For the three of us, one got a salad with pulled pork on top.  Another got six wings and I got the turkey breast sandwich.  My sides were baked beans (which I had heard a lot about) and macaroni & cheese.

Everyone had great things to say about their meals.  Interestingly, with the exception of the pulled pork on her salad, none of us got BBQ plates.  Having just had BBQ over the weekend I was looking for something a little different.  The turkey was moist and tender.  The baked beans were REALLY good, and so was the mac & cheese. The diner with the wings said they were excellent.  I’ll be trying the wings the next time.

Prices are what you would expect.  With a drink and tip, mine lunch was close to $20. Not sure what my friends spent.

It’s tough in the community with so many good BBQ places from which to choose to cut through the clutter.  Their location, out on the Robert C. Daniel Parkway, is on the lot that previously housed the Macaroni Grill.

I think Jim 'N Nick's is a wonderful addition to the many BBQ choices we already have available.  I think it will appeal especially to older folks and families that are looking for something a little more than the sometimes “down home” feel of mom-and-pop BBQ spots.

If you go, enjoy.  Let us know what you think…

Valentine's Day is right around the corner.  It's a day to celebrate love.  Maybe it's a day you'll get flowers, candy, jewelry, or simply spend time with the one you love. And if you're planning a dinner date, we asked our listeners where the best spot is for Valentine's Day dinner in the CSRA.  We'll list those places below!

Throughout the years, Valentine's Day has become a very commercialized holiday.  Before the Christmas season was even over, stores started stocking shelves with red and pink items and Valentine's candy. But what's the real history of Valentine's Day?

First of all, Valentine's Day is also known as Saint Valentine's Day. According to Britannica, it's believed the holiday originated from the Roman festival of Lupercalia. The festival was held in mid-February and celebrated the upcoming spring, fertility, and pairing of men and women through a lottery. At some point, the festival was forbidden, and some think St. Valentine's Day replaced it.

But, in reality, the true origin of Valentine's Day isn't clear-cut. There are various stories and legends about Saints named "Valentine." One common legend says St. Valentine went against the emperor's orders and would secretly marry couples to keep the husbands from having to go to war.  And that's one reason the day is associated with love.

Regardless of how it came it be, Valentine's Day is celebrated widely throughout the United States.  But it's also celebrated in Britain, Canada, Australia, France, and more. It's a day to show love and appreciation for that special someone in your life. And gifts are often exchanged on Valentine's Day, with flowers and candy being the most common.

Of course, not everyone celebrates the day.  Personally, I don't go over the top for the day. I think that you should celebrate and show your love and appreciation throughout the year, not just one day.  But that's not to say you can't make the day special.  Maybe it's not about the gifts, but you just want to spend time with your person. Valentine's Day is often a day you plan to take your special someone out to a nice dinner.  Hopefully, you have planned ahead, because it does tend to be a very busy day for the restaurant industry.

We decided to ask you, the listeners, for your recommendations on the best places for Valentine's Day dinner in the CSRA.  And you did not disappoint.  It was refreshing to see so many local spots listed, versus the franchises! So, let's dive in!  And maybe go ahead and make those reservations!

Address: 1031 Center Street, North Augusta, SC

This one came up a few times!  Brinkley's Chop House describes itself as a "Refined chop house located in the SRP Ballpark featuring premium steaks, chops & seafood."  This is a fine dining experience with complimentary valet parking available.

Address: 1282 Broad Street, Augusta, GA

At Frog Hollow Tavern, you'll experience their modern "restaurant meets bar" with an inviting atmosphere and extensive wine list.  They also have craft cocktails and local and regional "farm-to-table" cuisine.

Address: 2 10th Street, Augusta, GA - inside the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center

If you're looking for fine Italian cuisine, Augustino's is a highly recommended spot. But even if Italian isn't your favorite, they are also known for their USDA prime steaks.

Address: 399 Highland Avenue, Augusta, GA

Another place for fine Italian cuisine is Oliviana Ristorante. Their menu features a wide variety of Italian favorites including pizza and various pasta dishes.  They also have salmon and steak options as well.

Address: 360 Furys Ferry Road, Martinez, GA

For seafood and steaks, there's French Market Grille West. They offer "unique Cajun and Creole cuisine, combined with an atmosphere usually found only in New Orleans."

Address: 3208 West Wimbledon Drive, Augusta, GA

Raes Coastal Cafe features true Caribbean cuisine, like Jamaican Jerk Chicken, along with their signature crab soup, scallops, and filets. It's like a trip to your favorite beach.

Address: 4414 Evans To Lock Road Evans, GA

Cork And Flame features what they describe as "elegantly innovative Progressive American cuisine. They use local and regional ingredients for a fine dining experience. Reservations are recommended as limited walk-ins are available, and a business-casual dress code is required.

Address: 316 Richland Avenue West, Aiken, SC

For aged steaks, there's Prime Steakhouse in Aiken. They also serve whole lobster and seafood and serve premium drinks from their bar. They are an "authentic, big-city steakhouse reminiscent of Chicago or New York City."

Address: 100 Colleton Ave South West, Aiken, SC

Located inside the hotel, The Restaurant At The Willcox is an award-winning spot. They utilize seasonal cooking and ingredients that are from sustainable and local food sources. It is considered American cuisine, but the chef uses inspiration from international travel. They also offer romantic dining packages.