Nicky Rotten’s: Burgers, Wings, & Other Things

Cross over the 2.1 mile bridge to Coronado, and enjoy the view of the downtown skyline from across the bay. Drive down a couple of stop lights until you hit the corner of Orange and First, where you’ll find Nicky Rotten’s Bar & Burger Joint.

Known for it’s 2.5 pound burger challenge, farm raised buffalo wings, and handcrafted drinks, this Coronado sports hub is unlike any other. Nicky Rotten’s is the only real sports bar on the island, but the restaurant has done its best to integrate to the environment of the town. Unlike other sports bars, you won’t find loud music blaring overhead, because Nicky’s realizes the value of being able to talk over a meal. Enjoy watching your favorite sports team on one of Nicky’s 22 in-house T.V.s, while still having the opportunity to catch up with your friends over commercial breaks.

Aaron Kahn, who has been managing the restaurant for almost 2 years, is adding new items to the menu and creating restaurant efficiency. Kahn is a San Diego local who has an affinity for the place he calls home. He lives on the island himself, and has a deep history with the service industry. Throughout his life, his parents were restaurant owners and created a passion in him for the world of food. He invests in the details, like infusing jalapenos in tequila for several days, to create the perfect flavor for their Jalapeno Margarita. He’s adjusted some of the ingredients behind the bar to help get drinks out to customers faster, without taking away the craft quality.

Bruschetta Burger with Sweet Potato Fries, and Breakfast Burger (Photo Credit: Corey Bruins)

One special thing about Nicky Rotten’s is their willingness to give back. In 2014, Navy SEAL Brad Cavner passed away in a parachuting training in El Centro. A Coronado local, and friend to Kahn, the restaurant didn’t want the story of this local hero to go unnoticed. Cavner served 9 years in the Navy in Afghanistan and Iraq, and his death was indeed a tragedy. Nicky’s created the Cavner Mule–a “Kentucky Mule” of sorts, with Jameson, Lime Juice, Angostura Bitters, and Ginger Beer. $1 from each Cavner Mule purchase goes to the Navy Seal Foundation in Brad’s honor, as a way of saying “thank you” from his hometown.

Cavner Mule & Jalapeno Marg (Photo Credit: Corey Bruins)

Pair one of these gingery mules with a Bruschetta Burger, and let the flavors of Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, provolone cheese, and pesto aioli rest satisfied on your tongue. Or, if you’re someone who can appreciate breakfast at any time of day, try the flavor-packed Breakfast Burger. Applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, crispy potato cake, an over-easy egg, and Rotten’s special sauce. Yum. Substitute steak fries for sweet potato, and get treated with a side of syrup on the side. Breakfast, lunch dinner, and dessert have officially all collided.

Pretzels & Beer Cheese, with Marinara (Photo Credit: Corey Bruins)

Specials to look out for: 

Taco Tuesday: $5.50 for (3) Carne Asada Tacos, $4 Pacificos, $5 Margaritas

Beer Wednesday: Most beers are only $4 (some exceptions)

You-Call-It Thursday: $5 All Call Drinks

Military Friday: 15% off all food items for Military

Burger Saturday: 10% off Burger of the Day

Happy Hour 3-6PM : $5 Drafts, Well Cocktails, and House Wines
Leave the city life for a night and enjoy the rich flavors of a juicy beef patty, covered with your favorite toppings; then walk it off with a stroll around the island, ending the night judgment-free.