The Original Papa Nick's Pizza, now located on College Street in Mars Hill, North Carolina, was founded in Miami in the late sixties by Jerry Nikla. At that time, the menu consisted of pizza and breadsticks. Now it is run by Deborah Nikla Turner, the daughter of the real “Papa Nick”.

Over the years, Deborah has grown the menu, largely in response to requests from students of Mars Hill College and other customers. The Original Papa Nick’s Pizza has added sandwiches that can be customized by adding items from an extensive list of toppings, dinner items including lasagna, stuffed eggplant parmigiana, and baked spaghetti, as well as salads and homemade desserts.

When you visit The Original Papa Nick’s Pizza, be sure to say hello to Deb and her crew. She’s there most nights, wearing a bandana and a welcoming smile. (And be sure to order some of those garlic rolls . . . they’re “to die for”!)

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