WGN's 'Chicago's Best' to feature Nicksons Eatery of La Grange

LA GRANGE – You'll find grilled cheese sandwiches on the menu at just about every family restaurant in the area, but you won't find a brisket grilled cheese just anywhere. You'll have to visit Nicksons Eatery in downtown La Grange for that scrumptious delicacy.

In fact, WGN stopped by the restaurant March 30 to check out the legendary sandwich for an episode of its Sunday night program “Chicago’s Best.”

Rich Baca, Nicksons Eatery’s co-owner, said filming with “Chicago’s Best” host Brittney Payton and the crew was a great experience.

“They made everyone feel very comfortable throughout the shoot, not only the staff, but the customers,” Baca said. “From what I saw and gathered, the customers were having a great time. They support Nicksons and believe in what we do.”

The WGN crew spent about three hours at the restaurant, interviewing staff and customers, as well as learning how to make a brisket grilled cheese with chef and co-owner Nick Baca. Once the signature sandwich was done, Payton ate it on camera, and Rich Baca said she loved it.

One of the show’s producers reached out to Baca and asked if they could film an episode at Nicksons. Baca isn’t sure who recommended his restaurant to WGN or how they knew about Nicksons, but he said he’s thrilled nonetheless.

He said Nicksons’ episode of “Chicago’s Best” should air on WGN sometime in early May.

“It’s fantastic. It’s always a nice surprise when you get contacted by any publication or media outlet,” Baca said. “It’s very gratifying that they highlighted one of our specialties. It’s good exposure to new customers.”

Baca described the popular sandwich as “an adult grilled cheese” that has braised brisket and cheese, served on crispy, buttery bread with a side of tangy barbecue dipping sauce. He said it’s one of their most popular dishes on the menu.

La Grange resident Bruce Jablonski couldn’t agree more. He and his wife are regular customers at Nicksons, and the brisket grilled cheese is one of his favorites.

“That dish is just awesome, and the burgers are also staples; no matter which one you get, they’re all awesome,” he said. “I think it’s great that WGN came out so they get recognized and get their due. I just hope they don’t get too overcrowded now.”

Besides the famous grilled cheese, Nicksons also is known for the cedar plank salmon, Colorado elk burger, sticky buns and Prince Edward Island mussels. Baca said those dishes are menu standouts.

“It’s our attention to detail. When people come to Nicksons, they’re very surprised and they leave happy,” he said. “We provide our products and service in ways that you’re not going to see in a lot of other restaurants. That comes through in our fresh ingredients. Our menu features items that you’re not going to find at other restaurants in the area. It’s a city feel but a comfort level that’s inviting. We’re not only a neighborhood eatery, but a destination for a lot of folks.”

Baca said the menu offers something for everyone and described Nicksons’ atmosphere as “comfortable,” which is one of the things Jablonski appreciates most about the restaurant.

“It’s not real expensive, which makes it nice,” Jablonski said. “We’ll meet friends for a burger and sit around talking for half the night, and you don’t feel like they’re trying to rush you out the door. You can hang out if you want.”

Customers can try one of many hard-to-find local craft beers, as well as a cocktail made from a local microdistillery. Baca is focusing on “craft cocktails,” which he said is an up-and-coming trend.

“We have a barrel-aged Manhattan made with bourbon from FEW Spirits distillery in Evanston, and it’s really special,” he said. “We can incorporate craft spirits into our cocktails. We’re going to try some fresh, bright cocktails as we move into spring. We bring in new cocktails that go with the time of year.”

---

About Nicksons Eatery

Location: 30 S. La Grange Road, La Grange

Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, closed Sunday

Info: nicksonseatery.com