Nic’s Italian Steak & Crab House In Cottonwood Arizona Serves Elegance With Flavor
Nestled in the heart of Cottonwood’s Old Town district, Nic’s Italian Steak & Crab House stands as a culinary landmark that has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 2005.
This family-owned gem combines authentic Italian flavors with premium steaks and fresh seafood in a charming, rustic setting.
A Family Legacy Built on Passion
Nicholas Barteau transformed his lifelong culinary dream into reality when he opened Nic’s doors in 2005.
Having trained in prestigious kitchens across the country, Nick brought his expertise back to his beloved Arizona hometown.
The restaurant began as a modest eatery but quickly gained fame for its exceptional food quality and warm hospitality.
Today, the second generation of Barteaus continues Nick’s legacy, maintaining the same dedication to culinary excellence that put Nic’s on Arizona’s dining map.
Rustic Elegance Meets Old-World Charm
Step inside Nic’s and you’re transported to a Tuscan countryside villa.
Exposed brick walls adorned with vintage Italian art create an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and comfortable.
Soft amber lighting from wrought-iron chandeliers casts a warm glow over polished wooden tables.
The restaurant features intimate dining nooks for romantic evenings, while the main dining room buzzes with lively energy.
During summer months, the flower-filled patio offers breathtaking views of the Verde Valley mountains – perfect for watching Arizona’s famous sunsets while sipping regional wines.
Mouthwatering Steaks That Define Excellence
Carnivores rejoice! Nic’s premium cuts of beef are sourced from top American ranches and aged to perfection.
Each steak is seasoned with their secret blend of herbs and spices before being cooked precisely to your preference.
The signature 24-ounce bone-in ribeye arrives sizzling at your table, topped with herbed compound butter that melts seductively into the meat.
For the ultimate indulgence, upgrade to the ‘Surf and Turf’ option – your choice of steak paired with succulent Alaskan king crab legs or butter-poached lobster tail.
Fresh Seafood in the Arizona Desert
Remarkably, some of Arizona’s finest seafood can be found at Nic’s.
Fresh deliveries arrive daily from coastal waters, ensuring peak quality and flavor.
The Maryland-style crab cakes burst with lump crab meat and minimal filler – a house specialty that regulars rave about.
Seafood linguine overflows with clams, mussels, shrimp, and calamari in a light white wine sauce.
For a truly special experience, order the Chilean sea bass, pan-seared to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining the fish’s buttery texture inside, served atop saffron risotto.
Handcrafted Cocktails and Arizona Wine Country
The bar at Nic’s showcases the talents of mixologists who craft both classic and innovative cocktails.
Their Barrel-Aged Manhattan, rested for 30 days in oak, delivers complex flavors that perfectly complement a hearty steak dinner.
Wine enthusiasts appreciate the thoughtfully curated list featuring local Verde Valley vineyards alongside Italian and California selections.
Don’t miss the wine pairing dinners held quarterly – five courses expertly matched with wines from featured regions.
The knowledgeable staff guides guests through each pairing, creating an educational and delicious experience.