About Us

FAMILY LEGACY CONTINUES NICOLA’S TRADITION.

Nicola’s started in 1994 in a converted auto parts store, Nicola’s was the first modern Italian restaurant north of Manhattan to feature wood-fired pizza.

Prior to opening his restaurant, chef/owner Michael Nicola traveled extensively to Rome, Florence, Bologna, and Naples Italy, New York City, and San Francisco. He visited vineyards, olive groves, farmers’ markets, and cheese plants in each region, eating in local restaurants and immersing himself in the local culture. He learned first-hand the Italian cooking principle that: a few quality ingredients cooked properly, are the secret to authentic Italian taste.

Returning to Lake Placid he opened Nicola’s Over Main – it was an immediate success. Ten years later, having outgrown their original location, the Nicola’s built their next facility situated directly across the street from the Olympic Center. After many years of success, Mr. Mike (as he is affectionately known around town) decided to downsize to a smaller yet just as authentic space.  Welcome to the new Garage Pizza, where culinary mastery collides with casual industrial flare. Pull up a seat at the bar and watch as Mr. Mike cooks in his open kitchen. Stretching dough, chopping and topping pizza with high quality ingredients and enjoy the smell of the pizza as it crisps in the oven. Mr Mike’s philosophy has always been old world hospitality and lifestyle with the love of good food. We welcome you to enjoy just that at our new Garage Pizza.