From a 1993 article by Sun-Times columnist, Richard Roeper, "Nick's Tavern always had a lot in common with 'Cheers.' Like 'Cheers,' Nick's is a place more famous for its personality and character than its bells and whistles. No line dancing at 'Cheers,' no country karaoke at Nicks.

"Like 'Cheers,' Nick's features a longtime cast of regulars both behind and in front of the bar. And just as 'Cheers' was occasionally graced by a cameo...Nick's has its own list of celebrity appearances, from former Bull Artis Gilmore to Caroline Kennedy."