Nick's Gyros and Grill: Mediterranean Flavors in the Heart of South Carolina

What to expect at Nick's Gyros and Grill

Nick's Gyros and Grill serves Mediterranean food in a casual, family-friendly setting—think gyros, grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and Greek-inspired sides. The menu centers on hand-carved gyro meat (beef and lamb, or chicken), flame-grilled kebabs, and traditional Greek plates. You order at the counter, find a seat, and the kitchen brings your food out. The space is modest and unpretentious, with a focus on quality ingredients and straightforward preparation rather than elaborate plating.

The restaurant's signature item is the gyro sandwich: meat carved from a vertical spit, wrapped in pita with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce. Portions are generous. If you're not in the mood for a sandwich, the grilled chicken and lamb kebabs come with rice, salad, and pita bread. The menu also includes Greek salads, falafel, and sides like hummus and dolmas. Most plates run between $12 and $18.

Key Takeaways

• Nick's specializes in gyros and grilled Mediterranean meats, with most entrees served with rice, salad, and pita bread.
• The restaurant operates as a counter-service spot where you order at the register and wait for your food to be brought to your table.
• Portions are large and prices are moderate, making it a good option for a filling lunch or casual dinner.
• The space is simple and family-oriented, without table service or a full bar.

The gyro: how it's made and what makes it different

A gyro is not a burger or a taco—it's a specific preparation where seasoned meat (usually beef and lamb mixed, or chicken alone) is stacked on a vertical spit, compressed, and slowly roasted. As the outside cooks, it's shaved off with a sharp knife and collected in a warm pita. At Nick's, this happens in front of you or in an open kitchen you can see from the dining area. The meat is tender, slightly charred on the edges, and seasoned with oregano, garlic, and other Mediterranean spices.

The tzatziki sauce—a yogurt-based condiment with cucumber, garlic, and dill—is what ties the sandwich together. It's cool, tangy, and cuts through the richness of the meat. If you've never had a gyro before, this is the dish to order. It's different enough from American sandwiches to feel like a real meal, but familiar enough that most people enjoy it on the first try.

Grilled kebabs and plates beyond the gyro

If you want something other than a sandwich, the grilled kebabs are the next logical choice. Chicken, lamb, and beef kebabs come marinated and grilled over an open flame, then served on a plate with rice pilaf, a Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta), and warm pita bread. The meat is juicy and well-seasoned, and the rice absorbs the flavors from the grill. These plates are filling and work well for a sit-down meal rather than something to grab and go.

The Greek salad here is simple and fresh—no heavy dressing, just olive oil and vinegar. Feta cheese is crumbly and salty. If you're vegetarian or want a lighter option, falafel (fried chickpea fritters) comes with the same sides. Hummus, dolmas (grape leaves stuffed with rice), and tzatziki are available as appetizers or sides.

When to go and what the space feels like

Nick's is best for lunch or an early dinner. The restaurant fills up around noon on weekdays and stays busy through the lunch hour. Evenings are quieter. There's no reservation system—you walk in, order, and sit. The dining room is small and straightforward: tables, chairs, and a counter where you pick up your order. The walls might have some Greek touches or travel photos, but the focus is on the food, not the ambiance.

This is not a date-night restaurant or a place for a long, leisurely meal. It's a spot where you come to eat well and leave satisfied. Families with kids fit in easily. The noise level is moderate, and the pace is quick. If you're looking for a quiet corner or table service, this isn't it.

How Nick's fits into South Carolina's food scene

Mediterranean and Greek restaurants are less common in South Carolina than barbecue, Lowcountry seafood, or Southern comfort food. Nick's fills a gap for people who want something outside those traditions—fresh vegetables, lean grilled meats, and flavors that come from olive oil and herbs rather than smoke and sauce. The restaurant has been in business for years, which means it has found an audience and knows how to execute its menu consistently.

If you're exploring South Carolina's dining options beyond the state's signature cuisines, Nick's represents the kind of neighborhood spot that makes a city's food culture richer. It's not fancy or trendy, but it's reliable and honest about what it does.

Practical details for your visit

Nick's operates as a cash-friendly restaurant, though most locations now take cards. Hours are typically lunch and dinner, closed on Sundays or Mondays—check ahead before you go, as hours vary by location. The restaurant does not take reservations, so if you're going at peak lunch time (around 12:30 p.m.), expect a short wait. Takeout is available and works well for gyros and kebabs.

Parking is usually street parking or a small lot, depending on the location. The restaurant is accessible by car and is often located in a strip center or downtown area. If you have dietary restrictions—vegetarian, gluten-free, or allergies—the staff can tell you what's available, and most items can be customized (no onions, extra sauce, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a gyro and a kebab?

A gyro is meat cooked on a vertical spit and shaved into a sandwich. A kebab is meat marinated and grilled on a skewer, then served on a plate with rice and salad. Both are Mediterranean, but the cooking method and presentation are different. Gyros are handheld; kebabs are fork-and-knife meals.

Is Nick's good for vegetarians?

Yes. Falafel is the main vegetarian entree, served with rice, salad, and pita. Greek salad and hummus are also available. The staff can tell you which items are made without meat broth or animal products if you have specific dietary needs.

Can I order Nick's food to go?

Yes. Takeout works well for gyros and kebabs. Call ahead during busy times to avoid a long wait, or order at the counter and they'll have it ready in 10 to 15 minutes. Gyros travel well in a container; kebab plates are heavier but still transport fine.

How much should I expect to spend?

Most gyro sandwiches and kebab plates run $12 to $18, depending on the meat and location. Appetizers and sides are $4 to $8. A full meal for one person typically costs $15 to $22 before tax and tip.

Does Nick's take reservations?

No. It's a walk-in, counter-service restaurant. During lunch rush, you may wait 10 to 20 minutes. Evenings and off-peak hours are quieter. Calling ahead to ask about wait times is a good idea if you're planning a group visit.