How they turned a failed restaurant into Nashville’s most talked-about pizzeria
In the latest episode of How You Slice It, we sat down with Tony and Caroline from Nicky’s Coal Fired Pizza, one of Nashville’s most unique pizzerias. This dynamic duo shared their inspiring journey, taking us from the world of fine dining in Chicago to the creation of a neighborhood favorite with a coal-fired twist. Here’s what makes Nikki’s story so compelling.
The Leap from Fine Dining to Pizza Perfection
Tony and Caroline’s story is far from typical. After years of working in Chicago’s fine dining scene, the pair made a bold move to Nashville with a vision: to create a restaurant that combined their passion for quality food with a more approachable, casual vibe. They took a chance on an unconventional style of pizza and brought their fine dining expertise to a whole new audience.
Mastering the Coal-Fired Oven
What separates Nicky’s is its commitment to quality and the unique use of a coal-fired oven. Tony, with his background in pastry and bread-making, took on the challenge of perfecting their pizza dough using a sourdough starter named “Bert,” now over 17 years old. The result? A pizza that blends the crispiness of New Haven-style with the chew of a Neapolitan, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.
Adapting Through Challenges and Finding Their Niche
The journey wasn’t without hurdles. From the difficulties of scaling a fine dining concept to dealing with the pandemic’s impact, Tony and Caroline had to make significant changes. They transitioned from a full-service restaurant to a more casual, counter-service model, focusing on customer favorites like pizza, pasta, and seasonal dishes. Their adaptability paid off, making Nicky’s a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
Private Events and a Holiday Hit
Nicky’s has also become a go-to for private events, weddings, and their highly anticipated annual "St. Nick’s" Christmas celebration. Decked out in over-the-top decorations, the restaurant transforms into a festive wonderland, drawing in crowds and creating a buzz on social media.
The Secret to Their Success
What’s the key to their success? According to Tony and Caroline, it’s a combination of staying true to their roots, constantly refining their craft, and listening to customer feedback. They’ve found a balance between quality and approachability, making Nicky’s Cold Fired Pizza a standout in Nashville’s competitive dining scene.
Listen Now
Curious to learn more about how they built this thriving pizzeria from scratch? Tune in to the full episode of How You Slice It to hear Tony and Caroline’s full story, get behind-the-scenes insights, and discover their tips for creating a standout restaurant.
Listen Here:
Follow Nicky’s Cold Fired Pizza on Instagram: @NikkiNashville
Visit Their Website: www.nikkysnash.com
