Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Birmingham, AL

North America

United States

# Overview
The Nick is a dive bar and music venue located at 2514 10th Ave S in Birmingham, AL. Known for its vibrant nightlife, The Nick offers a unique experience that combines live music with a casual atmosphere. Open 24 hours on weekends, it attracts a diverse crowd looking for late-night entertainment and a taste of Birmingham's local culture. With a rich history and a reputation for being a local favorite, The Nick stands out as a must-visit spot for both residents and visitors alike.

## History
The Nick, originally known as the Wooden Nickle, was rebranded in 1982. It has evolved from a convenience store into a beloved dive bar and music venue. Over the years, it has hosted numerous famous bands, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Korn, earning the nickname "Birmingham's Dirty Little Secret" from Bono. The venue has maintained its gritty charm, with walls adorned with band memorabilia and a lively atmosphere that reflects Birmingham's music scene. The Nick's transformation into a membership-only bar has added a layer of exclusivity while preserving its dive bar roots.

## Community
The Nick is deeply embedded in the Birmingham community, often partnering with local musicians and artists to showcase their talents. The bar hosts various events, including live music performances and themed nights, fostering a sense of camaraderie among patrons. Sustainability efforts are evident in its support of local vendors, such as BBQ sellers outside the venue. The Nick serves as a gathering place for locals, offering a space for voices to be heard and connections to be made.

## Offerings
At The Nick, patrons can expect a range of offerings focused on drinks and live music. The bar features a selection of local beers and classic cocktails, with no food served on-site. The venue is known for its lively events, including concerts and open mic nights, providing an opportunity for local talent to shine. Facilities include a small stage for performances and a pool table, creating a casual environment for socializing and entertainment. Customization options are limited, but the bar's character and ambiance are what draw visitors in.

## Pros and Cons
The Nick has garnered mixed reviews, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Strengths include its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and the unique experience of live music in an intimate setting. Many patrons appreciate the dive bar vibe and the sense of community it fosters. However, weaknesses often cited include cleanliness issues, particularly in the bathrooms, and the sometimes overcrowded environment. Overall, The Nick is celebrated for its authenticity and charm, making it a memorable stop in Birmingham.

## Location & Nearby
Located in the Southside neighborhood of Birmingham, The Nick is easily accessible and surrounded by a variety of other nightlife options. The area is known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and cultural venues, making it a vibrant hub for entertainment. The venue's address, 2514 10th Ave S, places it within walking distance of other popular spots, enhancing its appeal as a nightlife destination.

## Visit The Nick Today
If you're looking for an authentic dive bar experience in Birmingham, The Nick is the place to be. With its rich history, lively community, and commitment to showcasing local talent, it promises a night out like no other. Whether you're drawn in by the live music, the friendly atmosphere, or simply the chance to enjoy a drink in a unique setting, The Nick invites you to experience the unfiltered essence of Birmingham's nightlife. Don't miss out on this iconic venue!

c7deb6e8-cde7-4fe4-85d9-c8d7acd6507b

The Nick is definitely not for everyone -- but it's absolutely an experience you'll never forget. After my friend (who was hosting us) passed out, my other friend and I decided to see more of Birmingham's nightlife. A friendly bartender at Up-Down Arcade Bar (another must-visit!) told us about this place, mentioning it's one of the few bars open 24 hours on the weekend. Naturally, curiosity won. From the jump, this place had character. There's a bouncer at the door, a makeshift elevated DJ booth to the right where you have to pay cash for a "membership." Don't worry -- there's an ATM conveniently behind the booth, ready to charge you a nice little convenience fee if you didn't bring cash. The membership lasts a year, but still, that was a first for me. Inside? Small. Crowded. Lively. And at 1 AM, there was a guy passed out in a chair right by the entrance -- with his dog roaming freely around the bar. I honestly couldn't make this up if I tried. The bartenders were solid -- fast, cool, and trying their best to keep up with the rush. There's a selection of local beers (pretty good ones too) and two pool tables... well, technically one, since they only had one cue ball. The pool sticks? Ancient relics. The bathroom? I'll spare you the visuals. Outside was much more breathable. There was a local guy named Walter -- from Georgia, of all places -- selling BBQ. Cool dude. The turkey wing was a little tough, but his attitude made up for it. Now, the real highlights? The people and the atmosphere. You've got folks eavesdropping on your conversations, tossing around racially backed jokes at me (that I politely corrected), a row of chain-smokers out front, and a woman openly asking for cigarettes or change that may have been homeless, but was definitely a crackhead and she so eloquently vocalized. It's a gritty and downright raw type of place, but somehow, it works. There wasn't any live music when we came, but I'm sure that's what makes this place shine more than it already does in its own unique way. I'll definitely be back for a performance night. Bottom line: Five stars because The Nick is exactly what it's supposed to be -- an unfiltered slice of Birmingham nightlife that refuses to apologize for being itself.

27fb477c-a6f2-48c8-8096-2cc4d2b3674d

It seems like I'd heard of this place since the day we moved to Birmingham in 2012. I've heard some interesting stories about it since then also. lol! I went at 4:30'ish on a Tuesday for happy hour with some pals. Very slow time which was perfect for us. The bartender was very laid back. The customers seemed like regulars... familiar. Good drinks. The walls are super super busy. You can't look and not see something you didn't see before. I definitely recommend going for the experience if you've never been.

939c40e5-ad22-4bf8-88d7-efcfcec27fbc

What's not to love about a good dive bar?!?!?! The former "Wooden Nickle" was rebranded "The Nick" in 1982 and, in its previous life, was a "Birmingham's Finest Quik Mark." I find it hard to believe it has a capacity of 250 - that would be a tight fit in this building! You're practically on stage with the band when it's a packed house. The Nick is where you go for live music, cheap beer, or Jack and Cokes, and late nights. It is open till 4 AM, and either does or does not close on the weekends. (Here are their hours from their website: We Are Open Sun - Thurs: 2:00 pm till 4:00 am Fri - Sat: till 6:00 am.) Maybe due to their "after hours" hours, the Nick is now a "membership only" place - from their website: "The Nick is 21 and Up Private Club Membership Card ($5 Per Year) & Valid ID to Enter." They don't serve food, it's just a bar and it was a smoking bar until about 10 years ago. Bono (along with Adam Clayton) visited The Nick and coined it "Birmingham's Dirty Little Secret." Back when I frequented it, the Red Hot Chili Peppers played the Nick (5 times), as did Janes Addiction, Wheezer, Korn, and the Black Crowes, among other famous bands. Good local/regional bands played here too! I recall cheap cover charges, maybe $10.00 and bands always starting after their scheduled time. As you would expect, the restrooms are graffitied, and the walls are covered with stapled band paraphernalia, such as stickers, photos, etc. Faded old band photos are even stapled to the ceiling! There's an ample front deck/porch area with benches, and a landmark marquee that overlooks the tiny, dicey parking lot. We usually parked streetside on 10th Avenue and made the short walk to the Nick. Do stop by the Nick, to get a shot of Tequilia or a cold PBR, to say you did!

ca1da0dc-a595-47e3-ac27-49bf5eac0451

The Nick, please clean your bathrooms. It's diabolical. I almost puke every time I go. It's getting worse. I won't be returning until it's done. It smells like you haven't disinfected them since the time of the ancient Roman Empire. Ancient piss. It's disgusting, inhumane, and putrid to have people breathe in straight ammonia every time they need to use the restroom. All I smell is the urine of the hundreds of people who used the restrooms before me. It smells like people pee on the walls in there. I asked the bartneder why the bathrooms were 10x worse than what they normally are and he didn't have an answer . He also said it was weird because they had been cleaned that day. THERE IS NO WAY. The smell i smelled was so horrid it singed my nose hairs. Please do not put bleach on the urine because it will create mustard gas and make everyone pass out within a 2-mile radius. I would suggest Pine-Sol or an industrial cleaner. What yall are using is not working. I've never smelled such a funky stanky smell. I love coming here to watch bands play and enjoy the music, play pool, and chill. Unfortunately, I won't be returning until it's disinfected and thoroughly cleaned. It's just common courtesy for your customers, no matter how shady they might be. Sincerely, someone who has spent hundreds of dollars over the years at your establishment. Do the right thing. Use the bucket and mop.

a8e257ef-76d1-42a4-8c00-83facbb30070

This is a cool spot. But keep in mind BOTH BATHROOMS ARE DISGUSTING. This is to be expected at a dive bar though. I like the lighting inside and it's nice that they're open 24 hours on the weekends. The staff is friendly. There was a fight when I was there but security handled it quickly and no one else was hurt. I would've felt uncomfortable if I came there without my friends but we were looking out for each other. I think i paid $10 for a year membership. There's a pool table inside and a stage.

0c70d038-53e2-4e2c-b856-8e40cc697519

Went to see Trapt and local band Hill St. the place had good atmosphere and the sound was very smooth, it wasn't over bearing and the guitars did not sound harsh the sound tech had it dialed in good. Hill St. started the show with really good energy and continued to build throughout the set while holding nothing back. Trapt came on stage and did their set. If another band I like comes to town or Hill st. Is playing I will definitely return , the place also has decent street parking and was easy to get to FYI they charge a member fee to get in on top of ticket sale.

723ff958-76aa-4af2-af4b-bb06cd2b0107

I went to see an early concert. Doors at 7, show from 8-930. I read the reviews and was a bit hesitant but this place is just simply a dive bar. Robin the bartender was nice, chatty, and attentive. The bathrooms are grungy to go like a dive bar but the actual toilet and sink were clean with properly locking doors ( make sure you lock the door, people just pull on the door, too loud to worry about knocking ). Now as the night went on the cleanliness decreased but that is because people are just gross and messy, no fault to the bar. They can't keep cleaning up after drunk people that can't pee in the toilet vs on the toilet. I was up front and the "acoustics" were fine, not too loud and very clear. The part that was a bit weird but I understand bc it's a private bar...I was a fool and bought a ticket online ( fees and such) I paid an astronomical amount vs at the door. He didn't really care about my ticket I just showed the email with a confirmation number. I had to still pay $ and put a bunch of personal information on a sheet to be a "member". All of the patrons were nice and non judgmental. I would go back and rec. To others.

69b2a282-074e-4ab5-b8f8-a77c20ae7e50

Amazing atmosphere!! I love the private bar experience!! You have to pay $5 for a year membership but who cares when you get to hear live music that's awesome??

2204a195-6255-4ce8-8d8f-3cba31058382

Super cool dive bar! Tons of history with this joint and if you are nice enough the bartenders may tell you about it. The bartenders are awesome and treat you like a local. If you love Dive Bars, this is one you don't want to miss.

7d9bc374-a1c4-4b4a-bebe-9e923024189d

The service and ambiance is great. We just didn't like that they move the tables when the band gets going to make a dance floor. The hubby likes a table to put his drink on.

Discover The Nick in Birmingham, AL—an inviting restaurant offering Southern charm and delicious cuisine. Experience local flavor and make unforgettable memories today.

The Nick Restaurant in Birmingham - Unique Local Dining Experience

Birmingham

The Nick

Alabama

Discover The Nick in Birmingham, AL, a premier restaurant and nightlife destination. Enjoy delicious cuisine and vibrant atmosphere near local attractions. Book your visit now!

The Nick Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at The Nick

Lou's Pub & Package Store

Ranelli's Deli & Cafe

Budget Car and Truck Rental