Nestled in the heart of West Passyunk, Philadelphia, Old Original Nick's Roast Beef has been a beloved neighborhood institution since 1938. This no-frills corner bar and restaurant is famous for serving up some of the city's most tender and flavorful roast beef sandwiches, capturing the true spirit of South Philly comfort food. Whether you're a local or a foodie exploring Philadelphia’s culinary scene, Nick's offers a genuine, down-to-earth dining experience with hearty provisions and a welcoming atmosphere.
At Old Original Nick's, the spotlight shines on the iconic roast beef sandwich. Served hot and juicy with aged provolone cheese, you can order it "wet" for a modest gravy drizzle or "overboard" to delight in extra gravy indulgence. The sandwich is perfectly complemented by crispy fries smothered in rich beef gravy— a combo that keeps locals coming back for more. Add some roasted peppers known as "Italian hots" or broccoli rabe "toppers" for a flavorful kick. The bar also serves cold Yuengling on tap to pair perfectly with your meal.
Old Original Nick's offers a cozy, unpretentious environment that feels like a true South Philly corner bar. The dimly lit interior and friendly staff create a warm vibe that invites guests to relax and enjoy their meal and a couple of beers. It’s a spot where locals and visitors alike can savor classic Philly flavors without any gimmicks—just honest, satisfying food and welcoming hospitality.
- Cash-only policy - Remember to bring cash, as credit cards are not accepted here.
- Parking - Free and paid street parking is available nearby but can be limited during peak times.
- Accessibility - Wheelchair accessible to accommodate all guests.
Long cherished by South Philly locals, Old Original Nick's Roast Beef embodies the city’s rich food heritage. Reviews often highlight the consistently delicious roast beef sandwiches and gravy fries, praising the warm, no-nonsense service and genuine atmosphere. While some say it’s the nostalgia that keeps people loyal, many travelers and food enthusiasts agree that Nick’s offers an authentic taste of Philadelphia's culinary soul. It’s a dependable spot that never tries to reinvent the wheel — just great sandwiches, good beer, and a community vibe that feels like home.
- What are the operating hours of Old Original Nick's Roast Beef? The restaurant operates Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM and is closed on Sundays.
- Is there parking available at the restaurant? Yes, there is parking available near the restaurant, but it can be limited during peak hours.
- Do they accept credit cards? No, the restaurant operates on a cash-only basis.
- Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
- Do they offer delivery services? Yes, delivery services are available.
Established in 1934, Old Original Nick's Roast Beef has become a cherished landmark in Philadelphia's South Street neighborhood. This iconic eatery is celebrated for its classic roast beef sandwiches and authentic bar atmosphere, reflecting decades of local tradition and community spirit.
Over the years, Old Original Nick's has evolved while staying true to its roots. In 1980, the restaurant expanded beyond its Philadelphia origins by opening a second location in West Chester, Pennsylvania, allowing it to reach a wider audience of sandwich lovers.
The original South Street location underwent a thoughtful renovation in 2000, aimed at enhancing the customer experience while preserving the establishment's classic charm. This careful balance of modernization and tradition has helped maintain its loyal following.
In 2010, Old Original Nick's embraced the changing dining landscape by introducing delivery services. This move enabled the restaurant to cater to a broader customer base, ensuring that more people could enjoy its signature hand-carved roast beef sandwiches from the comfort of their homes.
- 1934 Restaurant established in Philadelphia's South Street neighborhood.
- 1980 Expanded to include a second location in West Chester, PA.
- 2000 Renovated the original location to enhance customer experience.
- 2010 Introduced delivery services to cater to a broader customer base.
- 2020 Celebrated 86 years of serving Philadelphia's community.
Today, nearly a century after its founding, Old Original Nick's Roast Beef remains a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Its commitment to quality, tradition, and community has solidified its status as one of Philadelphia's most enduring culinary institutions.
Nestled in the heart of West Passyunk, Philadelphia, Old Original Nick's Roast Beef stands as a beloved institution dating back to 1938. This unassuming corner bar-cum-restaurant offers visitors a genuine taste of Philadelphia's culinary heritage with its hand-carved roast beef sandwiches, a staple that has drawn locals and food enthusiasts for generations.
The charm of Old Original Nick's lies not just in its food but also in the nostalgic bar atmosphere that transports visitors back to a simpler time. The roast beef sandwich, often recommended "wet" with gravy or "overboard" for extra indulgence, comes loaded with aged provolone cheese and flavorful beef. Complemented by classic sides like crispy fries that intriguingly hold up even under gravy, and optional toppings such as broccoli rabe and Italian hot peppers, the menu is a treat for those seeking hearty comfort food. The friendly and attentive staff enhance the welcoming environment, making it a great spot to enjoy a cold beer — notably Yuengling on tap — alongside your meal.
- Authentic Philadelphia roast beef sandwiches that capture the city's rich culinary tradition.
- Friendly and attentive staff who contribute to a welcoming and comfortable dining experience.
- Nostalgic bar atmosphere offering a genuine salt-of-the-earth vibe without pretensions or gimmicks.
- Generous portions that satisfy even hearty appetites.
- Quick service that keeps the experience efficient for dine-in or takeout.
While Old Original Nick's delivers a memorable food and ambiance experience, there are some practical aspects to keep in mind. The establishment enforces a cash-only policy, which may be inconvenient for some visitors. Parking availability is limited to free and paid street options, without valet service, so planning ahead is advisable. Reservations are not accepted, meaning peak times may involve waiting, and currently, there is no online ordering option available, which could affect convenience for takeout customers.
Old Original Nick's remains a cherished destination for those craving authentic Philadelphia roast beef sandwiches paired with a warm, no-fuss atmosphere. It holds a special place in the hearts of locals who appreciate its consistency and nostalgic vibe. While it may not be the top choice for every visitor, especially those seeking modern conveniences or variety, it promises a solid, hearty meal and a genuine slice of South Philly culture.
Nestled in the heart of West Passyunk at 2149 South 20th Street, Old Original Nick's Roast Beef offers a timeless taste of Philadelphia's classic sandwich scene. Since opening in 1938, this cozy corner bar has become a local institution, beloved for its authentic, hand-carved roast beef sandwiches and hearty provisions that capture the soul of South Philly comfort food.
At Old Original Nick's, the spotlight shines on their hand-carved roast beef sandwiches, a true standout priced at $11.50. These sandwiches feature tender slices of USDA Prime beef piled high on a freshly baked Kaiser roll, layered with melted provolone cheese and drenched in rich, savory gravy. The signature "wet" or "overboard" options let you customize the gravy amount, creating a mouthwatering, juicy experience that has kept loyal Philadelphians coming back for generations.
Beyond roast beef, their roast pork sandwich is another crowd-pleaser, featuring succulent pork topped with provolone, vibrant broccoli rabe, and a generous helping of gravy for just $11.50. And if you want to elevate your meal, the gravy fries—crispy golden fries smothered in beef gravy and topped with chunks of roast beef—are an irresistible $5.50 indulgence. Don't miss the sautéed broccoli rabe side ($4.50) with garlic and oil, which perfectly balances the richness of the sandwiches.
Step into Old Original Nick's and you'll find a small, somewhat dimly lit corner bar that exudes an easygoing, salt-of-the-earth vibe. It's the kind of place where locals gather to enjoy classic Philly sandwiches, share a few laughs, and savor a cold beer on tap—Yuengling being a popular choice to complement the meal. There’s no pretension here, just genuine hospitality and comfort food served with a side of tradition.
Cash-less convenience is a plus, as they accept credit and debit cards along with NFC payments, making it easy to grab your favorite sandwich without fumbling for cash.
- Authentic Philly heritage — Serving quality sandwiches since 1938, Nick’s is steeped in local tradition.
- Hearty, hand-carved sandwiches with well-balanced portions of prime beef and fresh toppings.
- Signature sides and pairings like gravy fries and broccoli rabe add layers of flavor and texture.
- Unpretentious atmosphere that warmly welcomes locals and visitors alike for casual dining and cold beers.
Old Original Nick's offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, catering to groups and families with kid-friendly seating. While outdoor seating and live music aren't available, the welcoming interior and friendly service more than make up for it. Convenient street parking, both free and paid, is nearby, and the establishment accepts debit, credit, and NFC payments for hassle-free ordering.
Whether you're a foodie on a quest for the best roast beef sandwich in Philadelphia or a local craving a taste of authentic South Philly heritage, Old Original Nick's Roast Beef delivers a hearty, satisfying experience that honors tradition without fuss.
