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5 Surprising Facts About Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille's Evolving Legacy And Current Status

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The legacy of Nick's Roast Beef, a Philadelphia institution tracing its roots back to 1938, is currently in a period of significant change, making the experience at its remaining locations more vital than ever. As of December 22, 2025, the brand, which has delighted generations of Philadelphians with its signature roast beef sandwiches, has seen several notable, high-profile locations close their doors, shifting the spotlight entirely onto the surviving establishments.

The establishment known as Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille in Old City, now often operating as "Nick's Bar and Grille," stands as a cornerstone of the brand's future. This deep dive explores the storied history, the recent operational shifts, and the exact culinary secrets that keep the Old City staple a must-visit destination for authentic Philadelphia comfort food.

The Storied History and Key Figures Behind Nick's Roast Beef

The story of Nick's Roast Beef is one of deep-rooted family tradition and evolving business ventures across the Greater Philadelphia area. The brand's foundation was laid long before the current bar and grille concept emerged.

  • Founder: Nicholas DeSipio
  • Original Location: 20th and Jackson Streets, South Philadelphia, PA
  • Founding Year: 1938
  • Original Concept: A classic beef-and-ale house
  • Key Family Members: Nick DeSipio (son/owner), John "Nick" DeSipio (longtime owner), and McKinney (daughter of Nick DeSipio, continuing the legacy at some locations)
  • Old City Owners: Joseph 'Joey Dog' Schultice and Nicole Viechnicki (for the Old City location/Nick's Bar and Grille)
  • Famous Dish: The hot and juicy roast beef sandwich, often served with aged sharp provolone and au jus.

The "Old Original Nick's Roast Beef" began in South Philadelphia, establishing a benchmark for the perfect roast beef sandwich that would influence all subsequent locations. The DeSipio family's commitment to slow-roasted, hand-carved beef and homemade gravy set a standard that continues to define the brand's reputation today.

The Latest Closures: A New Chapter for the Philly Institution

The Nick's Roast Beef brand has recently undergone a dramatic contraction, making the status of the remaining locations a point of high interest for loyal customers. These closures highlight the challenging landscape for decades-old, multi-location eateries.

The Northeast Philly Closures of 2023 and 2024

The most significant news surrounding the brand in recent memory involves the shutdown of two major Northeast Philadelphia outposts, plus a short-lived venture in Bensalem. The closures were abrupt and left a void in the local dining scene.

  • Cottman Avenue Location: This beloved institution, which had been operating for 54 years, closed its doors on Sunday, March 5, 2023. The reason cited was a failure to reach a new lease agreement with the landlord, marking the end of a long-standing neighborhood tradition.
  • Woodhaven Road Location: Opened in 2018, this Northeast Philadelphia branch, along with the Dockside Bensalem restaurant (opened in 2023), closed abruptly on November 17, 2024.

These recent events underscore the importance of the surviving locations, such as the one in Springfield, PA, and the popular Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille in Old City, which has successfully pivoted to maintain its relevance in a competitive market. The Old City location, in particular, has solidified its role as a destination for those seeking the authentic Nick's experience.

What Makes Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille (Old City) a Must-Visit

Located at 16 S 2nd St, the Old City establishment has carved out its own identity while honoring the core menu. Under the ownership of Joseph 'Joey Dog' Schultice and Nicole Viechnicki, it is known as much for its lively atmosphere as it is for its legendary food. The venue is a classic corner bar and grille, offering a welcoming, no-frills tavern environment that’s perfect for watching sports or enjoying a cold beer.

The Iconic Menu: More Than Just Roast Beef

While the name highlights the star attraction, the full menu at Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille offers a complete American comfort food experience. The focus remains on quality ingredients and classic preparation methods.

The Legendary Roast Beef Sandwich

The centerpiece of the menu is the Nick's Roast Beef sandwich. It is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor, featuring hand-carved, slow-roasted USDA PRIME roast beef. The quality of the accompanying elements is just as crucial to its fame:

  • The Roll: Served on a fresh-baked Liscio's Kaiser roll, which provides the perfect structural integrity and softness.
  • The Cheese: The classic preparation includes aged sharp provolone cheese, adding a necessary tang and creaminess.
  • The Gravy: The sandwich is often ordered "wet," meaning it’s generously dipped in or served with a side of homemade au jus (gravy) from the roasting pan. This is a non-negotiable step for many purists.
  • Customization: Customers can also add peppers and horseradish for an extra kick, a popular regional preference.

Award-Winning Burgers and Other Staples

The "Bar & Grille" part of the name is well-earned, with the location gaining recognition for its non-roast-beef offerings. The establishment prides itself on its Best-in-Philadelphia burger, specifically their award-winning bacon burgers. The menu is rounded out with other popular items, cementing its status as a full-service bar and grille:

  • Award-winning bacon burgers
  • Creative breakfast burgers
  • Hand-cut fries
  • Sliders
  • A diverse selection of cold beer

The combination of a lively tavern atmosphere, cold drinks, and high-quality comfort food ensures that Nick's Bar and Grille remains a vibrant part of the Old City dining scene, successfully navigating the brand's complex evolution. It continues to be a destination for both tourists and locals seeking a taste of authentic Philadelphia history and flavor.

5 Surprising Facts About Nick's Roast Beef Bar & Grille's Evolving Legacy and Current Status
nick's roast beef bar & grille
nick's roast beef bar & grille

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