There is a loyal crowd of locals flooding Nick’s Next Door, but this delightful haunt is as welcoming to rookies as it is to regulars. Inside, the bar and semi-open kitchen beckon; while outside, there’s plenty of space to linger just a little bit longer. The mood, thanks to a chic black-and-gray palette, and the food scream upscale American bistro. Pan-fried abalone served with creamy risotto and crispy Brussels sprouts leans edgy, while Nani's meatloaf, a thick slab of juicy meat in a savory mushroom gravy and resting atop fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes, is straight-up comfort. Finish with the apple bread pudding, a blend of sourdough and brioche, a variety of apples as well as a decadent caramel sauce that smacks of pure pleasure-and joy.