LV LifeDining

Nick’s Place provides good cheer

It is not "Cheers," but people do know each other's names. Nick's Place on D Street is a family-owned and operated bar and grill that bursts with business nightly. Holly Lewis, a Nick's employee, displays a common sight at Nick's. / photo by Jason Cooper
It is not “Cheers,” but people do know each other’s names. Nick’s Place on D Street is a family-owned and operated bar and grill that bursts with business nightly. Holly Lewis, a Nick’s employee, displays a common sight at Nick’s. / photo by Jason Cooper

by Rob Philpott
Staff Writer

Nick’s Place, formerly known as The College Inn, has become a popular hangout for University of La Verne students and local residents during the past two decades.

Shelly Knapp bought the bar in 1983 and soon changed its name from The College Inn to Nick’s Place for her husband, Nick.

The Knapp family runs Nick’s with the help of a few close friends.

Holly Lewis, the head bartender, is one of the place’s happy-go-lucky employees.

“My favorite part about Nick’s is that it is sort of like a small Cheers and the customers are always nice,” said Knapp’s daughter Holly.

Customers say that Nick’s is like a small town bar where everyone knows each other.

They serve everything with a smile.

Nick’s has a variety of foods to choose from and the most popular item on the menu is the the hamburger basket.

“I enjoy coming to Nick’s for a burger and fries with my friends because it is a cool atmosphere,” said ULV senior Dan Miyashiro.

While munching on burgers, some of Nick’s regulars can frequently found having witty repartee.

Others would rather fiddle with the jukebox, watch television or shoot pool.

True pool enthusiasts even have the opportunity to play for prizes by participating in informal competitions.

Every Sunday and Thursday Nick’s hosts a pool tournament for customers.

Prizes for winners include cash and Nick’s credit.

Other features include Taco Mondays and Chili Tuesdays.

Some customers say that Nick’s is a special place in La Verne where you can always find someone to talk to.

“I miss some of the memorable nights that I spent at the Nick’s establishment,” said alumnus Tom Chambers.

Nick’s is located near the University of La Verne on D Street in Old Town La Verne.

For more information call Nick’s Place at 909-596-2277.

Rob Philpott
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Jason Cooper, Staff Photographer
Jason Cooper
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