8 courses of dessert may seem like too much, but Nicosi has made the change in my mindset after my experience here. The word dessert escaped my mind throughout the process. We waited by the Pullman Market porch area for our tasting and they came out with mini frozen hibiscus drinks. I expected sweet, but only had tart flavors that stimulated my palette. Finally, me and my friends were taken in to a private dark room with the seats surrounding the kitchen where the magic was about to happen. The 8 course comes with 4 different flavor profiles and 1 alcoholic drink per flavor type. The most memorable profile was umami with the jerk chicken and bitter with the banana and chocolate. These two topped off as my favorites. The chocolate with my banana was the best I had ever yet. The bowl had to be picked clean. The chefs walked us through each of the dishes and explaining the story behind as well as any questions we had. We all had a blast with the tasting and would come back again. Don't forget, you get a fortune cookie to take home! read more

Nicosi - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Definitely a one-of-a-kind experience! No phones allowed to be able to be present in the magical moments. The food was so fun and the presentation is like a show! They have a storyline to create a plot for the "dessert" creations. The pastry chefs interweave sweet, salty, sour, spicy, and umami throughout the evening AND is also paired with a drink per dish. They tell you how to eat the dish for maximum enjoyment of the desired taste experience. They do an excellent job of creativity, presentation, and combination of flavors. Such an intimate setting. After it's all done, they do part you with a BIG fortune cookie with a handwritten fortune! This is the time where you are allowed to pull your phones out. And you can also step in the kitchen area and take pics. Menu does change. I'd definitely go again! read more

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I'd say between 4 and a 5. Reason I'll tip to the 5 is: I LOVE how private this place is. Only holds up to 20. Also, no photos allowed. Be present. Be with everyone. Listen to the story behind the food and drink being made. The experience tips it. The food was overall great. I love the play and texture of each. There were 4 that were extremely memorable! Relatable. The ambiance is giving strong date vibes. Dark, lustrous, open... beautiful from entrance to exit. Service is as expected but the main chef is just very interactive with the story behind every dish so that's a pleasure. Feels like a private chef experience almost. The drinks were the least favorite but still a much needed part of the dinner, and enjoyable none the less read more

Nicosi - Take home - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Well deserved Michelin star - Nicosi delivers service, food and experience like no other in San Antonio. The seating was comfortable and a phone free environment allows you to be fully present to appreciate the full menu as well as your company. We enjoyed the late night 8p seating and non alcoholic drink pairings that looked identical to the alcoholic pairings. We were served 8 total courses with 4 paired beverages. The only downside is, you are left waiting outside until nearly the exact seating time and it was a cold evening. We did finish off our night with a small meal elsewhere as it's not a full dinner offering which we expected. read more

Nicosi - Signature fortune cookie to-go - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

What can be said that hasn't already been said? Nicosi is insane. From beginning to end I felt like a special guest invited into the kitchen. I'm vegetarian and pregnant so my menu had to be modified but I was so blown away by the fact that they were able to accommodate for me and took such care in making sure my plates met the caliber and intended feeling/taste of the non vegetarian dishes. Same with the drink pairings, although mine were non alcoholic, it wasn't just a blah substitution, they really put a lot of care into making sure the drink matched the energy and vibe of the alcoholic version. My husband and I loved the story telling that went with each dish that described the chef's intentions and the products used for each bite. This was our first fine dining experience and we couldn't have been more satisfied. We were celebrating my husband's graduation and they even had a little card for him signed by the chefs! So cute! I'd definitely recommend checking this place out for a special occasion, or if you're just curious about what a Michelin Star dessert restaurant is all about. read more

This all dessert fine dining experience was creative, unpretentious, interactive and full of delicious surprises - a culinary adventure truly up my own personal alley. The theme on the night that I went was Aromas, and I left fully satisfied with what was delivered during the 8 course (1 bite + 1 larger portion celebrating each of four flavor profiles paired w 4 virgin drink concoctions) meal. I'll leave the rest as shrouded in mystery as it was when I first experienced it, and as I believe that the creator intended. If you find yourself in San Antonio, and enjoy inventive, accessible and intimate fine dining then Nicosi is definitely worth a try. read more

Nicosi was a very interesting experience We were all seated at the same time and then served every course at the same time. We sat in a U around the kitchen while they entertained us. Kinda one toned black setup. I will say because we went on Halloween they were dressed up willy wonka style and I'm not sure what it would have been otherwise We had 8 bites. 2 each of sour, umami, bitter and sweet My favorite is always sour but the most memorable were the umami ones What i didnt like for the first time in a tasting is that it didn't feel like you could just sit and chat and talk to the ppl you came with. You were clocking in and out of the restaurant No photos because we werent allowed to. The food and service were great but I wouldn't do it again read more

Dinner as theatre! The chefs truly love what they're doing and their pride is evident. Interesting stories accompany each delicious bite and course. I was surprised to be served a beef skewer on a mini hibachi--so tender and savory. Chef took us through the flavors with each course, starting with a citrus amuse bouche- sweet, sour/acidic, umami etc. The premise is dinner by pastry chefs so each serving is beautifully designed. I was impressed with the option for no- alcohol pairings, many of which are sold next door at Pullman. I left with a full belly and new ways of thinking about cuisine. read more

It's difficult to review Nicosi in any typical way while remaining respectful of the mystique that rightfully surrounds a lot of the work they are doing. Regardless, they are deserving of a review so I am going to give it my best shot without giving too much away. Nicosi is a special experience. We decided to come visit for our anniversary and were greeted warmly at the door about 10 minutes before our reservation time. The inside is a bit cozy, we had a smaller group but I would like estimate it could only seat a group around double our size so you will need a reservation. The food was stupendous but even more so the presentation gives the food a purpose. You will likely not have the same menu I did (unless you go very soon) but I can say confidently that I believe you will have an expertly thought out and presented meal. I can say this because there was so much thought put into everything that was done. It truly stays with you afterward. I'm giving Nicosi a five star review because in my mind they are doing exactly what they set out: being a creative and delicious place to not only enjoy a meal but also leave discussing memories, and meals to come. read more

Have visited Nicosi a couple times as it's a unique experience and menu each time, as the menu is updated often. The service is 5 stars and the intimate setting really adds to the experience. I would recommend having a light meal before hand or plan for one after as I have not found the tasting menu to be filling enough. Can't recommend this place enough, you must try it at least once. read more

It was a unique adventure. No menu, no camera allowed. Sat around the prep area and RnD chef explained each course while the chef walked around and visited with us. Surprisingly I was filled after the 7 courses. Very interesting concept. If you are looking for an adventure into a culinary art form I would recommend this place. read more

Nicosi - My wife and I were celebrating four years of being together - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

I would love to share with you all the great items we tried but cell phones are not allowed. From the moment we were greeted outside we felt welcomed . We entered and the show began . I was excited about the interaction with the chefs enjoyed how he took his time to explain what was being presented to us . I took a group of 8 as a thank you gift and we all left excited. We talked about textures, flavors, smells, bitter flavors , sweet notes we shared and shared how it made us feel The dessert were paired with a cocktail and the first one was my favorite . Thank you chef read more

Nicosi offers one of the most unique dining experiences I've ever had. This desert bar takes you through several courses, each showcasing different taste profiles--sour, umami, bitter, and sweet--paired with drinks that complement each flavor perfectly. The chef and team members were incredibly nice and took the time to explain not only the dishes but also the inspiration behind them. Given that it's a desert bar, I wasn't sure if I should eat beforehand. However, everything was surprisingly filling, and I left completely satisfied. As someone who studies the menu before visiting any restaurant, I was initially skeptical about dining here. As Yelpers, we usually say, "the camera eats first," but at Nicosi, the camera doesn't even get a taste! They provide a cozy little cover for your lens, ensuring that the only thing savoring the flavors is you. All of the dishes were presented beautifully, almost too pretty to eat. This made for a refreshing experience, allowing me to be fully present and enjoy the moment without distractions. I plan to return when they change the menu for the fall season. I think everyone should try Nicosi at least once. It was a joy to meet other fellow foodies and be in the moment, savoring each course without our phones. read more

Nicosi - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Nicosi was a small single room with a rather secretive location. Its door is easy to miss since it's on a far end of a patio outside of the Pullman Market. Inside, it's looks like a single bar with seating all around 3 square edges. After we were let in, they close up the door and you're inside a fully cloaked room: all the walls have these long black curtains, even covering the entrance to the hidden bathroom. The desserts were very artistic! As well as the plates, spoon, and serving dishes. Some looked so pretty it's like you didn't want to mess them up. Most of the desserts tasted dazzling. Everyone agreed that the "Savory" one was a favorite, since it was the only one that didn't seem dessert, and made it a bit more satiating. It was like a bean and cheese inside a hot bread roll thing. The drinks were excellent too, even the non-alcoholic ones. read more

Nicosi - Since everyone else seems to post their fortune cookie, it's like a tradition or proof you went lol - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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Notice: This review is intentionally done with minimal photos of the food. Read on to understand why. A couple of weeks ago, we visited the Pullman Market and dined at Fife and Farro. I noticed the sign for @nicosi_satx and looked it up. I was fascinated reading the photoless reviews (because you're encouraged to be present and not take photos). I made reservations through Open Table for our date night and also saw Nicosi mentioned as a recommended restaurant by Michelin. Upon arriving, the maitre d' welcomed us with a fruity drink to cleanse our palate. We were ushered in and there was another couple with us. Nicosi is the middle name of Tavel, the main chef and there was a team dedicated to ensure we have a great experience. This dessert omakase is Tavel's creative journey come to life. Each omakase menu take 3 months to create and for our 5:30pm seating, the team started preparing at 12noon. So much love and dedication are poured into this tasting journey. The tasting journey starts with 2 of each flavor profiles: acid, continues to umami, then bitter, and ends with sweet. There are 4 alcoholic and non-alcoholic pairings with the food for a slight upcharge. This delectable menu had my palate dancing with different notes. What you see may not be what it seems and reminded me of our molecular gastronomy experience in Cancun for our 5th year wedding anniversary. There were a couple of tastings that were unexpectedly cold. Zaatar which is an herb used in Lebanese food was used in one of our cocktails with apple brandy. How versatile! I discovered that I didn't mind the beans with the caladerata cheese in the bomba. I think my favorite was the bees nest, which was a meringue filled with apples, pears, and calvados brandy. I took notes as I wanted to remember the details of the experience but wanted to leave a little mystery for you all to check out for yourself.  At the end of the evening, the whole crew was introduced and we were gifted a large chocolate fortune cookie with our personalized fortune. That's the only item we could take a photo and share. The tasting menu changes every 3 months and they do check if anyone in your party might have allergies. This unique experience is best suited for those open to an adventure. read more

Nicosi - Chocolate fortune cookie - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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Don't miss the special events! Destination dining! No need to drive hours. Food is a real treat. Service is exceptional. Lots of romantic dinners and special occasions! Definitely worth a trip! read more

It was a great experience and very well presented. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere had a nice vibe. However, some of the desserts were hard to eat. That said, it's a unique experience, but it did not meet expectations. read more

Nicosi - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Amazing concept, service, and ambience. Each time I visit there is something different. This time the experience was based around aromas. We started with acidity, then umami, bitter and sweet. The Chef is a story teller and the team work together to provide a flawless experience. The non alcoholic cocktails are excellent and pair with each dish perfectly. Can't wait to try again! read more

Experienced Nicosi on 02/08/2025. Menu 002 Methodically curated, Michelin recommended dining experience. To respect the chefs desire for mystery, I must omit speaking of the flavors of the dishes themselves. Nicosi seats a max of 20 guests in a horseshoe shaped seating arrangement with the kitchen located in the center. This allows for each diner to observe the chefs as they plate the dishes. The dessert focused tasting menu has the option of an alcoholic or non alcoholic drink pairing. I enjoyed the experience. The chefs were personable and full of knowledge, clearly showcasing their passion. Service was great. Up to par with fine dining experiences. The techniques used to curate the courses exemplified the creativity the chefs have to offer. There was certainly no lack of distinct flavors. Albeit to say, I was not quite wowed by any dish in this particular menu set - taste wise. Which is just to say, another person may have felt completely opposite. I did have a couple favorites but ... I'm always on the hunt for my next euphoric bite. @bellatastes :IG read more

Nicosi - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

As a lacto-ovo vegetarian, it is often hard to find Michelin restaurants to dine at. I first heard about this restaurant via Michelin and didn't have any expectations coming in. It was my husband's and I two year anniversary and we wanted to do something special. Nicosi blew our minds - from the creative food, to impeccable intimate service, and ambiance everything has been thoughtfully curated. I have dined at other Michelin star restaurants, and this is easily one of my favorites. First off I will be honest I actually don't have that much of a sweet tooth- my husband does hence why we chose this! Ice cream is my main weakness, but outside of that I am very picky about desserts because I often find them too sweet/fatty/heavy. Though this is a dessert bar, the chefs do such a great job curating the dishes so that you don't have flavor fatigue and even at 8 courses, I was able to enjoy each and everyone. I don't want to go into too much detail about the dishes as the element of the dining experience is surprise and not having a menu nor taking pictures. I will say our 8 courses marched through different flavor profiles of dessert - acid, umami, bitter, and sweet. Ironically bitter the one I was least looking forward to actually turned out quite nice. The dishes do edge on the savory/sweet but for me it was the perfect balance. Not so sweet your whole palate is blown out, and not too savory where you questioned if the dish was a dessert. We also loved the drinks that were paired with dishes - they were generous pours and brought out the notes of the dessert. I had the non alcoholic and loved the drinks served including non alcoholic mulled wine, honey elderflower sparkling drink. We didn't walk out hungry, but if you have a bigger appetite you may still need a very light snack after. As vegetarian, my dishes weren't much different from my husband except some elements where gelatin was included in which case that portion was taken out for me. The staff is very thoughtful about accommodating restrictions and even taste preference! One of the diners didn't like coffee so they had created an entirely different dessert for him. The space itself is located at Pullman Market near the courtyard. The inside is a big shape U with all diners facing in the middle where the chefs prepare the meal. You are surrounded by black curtains behind you with brighter lighting in the middle so you can see the chefs prepare your dish and converse and ask questions. This is a fantastic place for date night, anniversary and celebration. It is a very interactive experience with the chefs, so if you're wanting an experience where you can have intimate conversation may not be the place. We talked to those sitting around us and the chefs the whole time. Time of the experience was about an hour and 20 minutes for us. Parking is validated for 2 hours and 59 minutes! read more

This is a dessert bar, as mentioned in the name. You really do just get desserts. 4 small bites 2 transition palate cleansers, and 4 main dessert dishes. Honestly super filling to my surprise, but leaves you craving a heartier main course, so good to have a big lunch or a small dinner prior! Overall, it was very interesting. They feature a sour, a savory umami, a bitter, and a sweet dish. They all have sweetness to them, so don't worry. Some dishes are a bit odd, but you can see they really tested out the flavors and took a lot of effort to create the dishes. Definitely not half-assed things anyone can cook, and great flavor combos. However, for the ingredients used, I do think it should have been slightly cheaper read more

If you're a dessert lover or someone who enjoys unique, high-end culinary experiences, Nicosi is an absolute must visit. From start to finish, the experience is nothing short of magical. This isn't just a place to satisfy a sweet tooth- it's a curated dessert tasting adventure that showcases the artistry of flavor. Each dessert is carefully crafted based on each season and flavor palette. Every bite was bursting with creativity and flavor. I was blown away by the innovative combinations of textures and flavors. They also pair the dishes with thoughtfully chosen drinks which add another layer of complexity and enhancement of the experience. It's clear that the team behind Nicosi is passionate about pushing the boundaries of dessert and they've truly mastered the art of balancing sweetness with savory, sour, and bitter elements in the most delightful way. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for something truly unique, Nicosi is a dessert experience unlike any other in San Antonio! read more

Nicosi - Fortune cookie - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

This was a great experience but definitely underwhelming for the price that was paid. Service and ambiance was great, food was OK. I would have expected a little more for the amount that was paid. read more

Nicosi - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Nicosi at the Pullman Market is a unique experience that I have only seen a handful of times in my travels as a recipe developer/James Beard Award judge/reviewer. I don't say that to brag; I say it because it is relevant to how I view a dining experience. The concept of Nicosi is a journey through desserts. You think "Oh! Dessert bar," your mind immediately going to a tasting course of spongey cakes and layered puddings. But Nicosi is so much more because they take you from sweet to savory through the lens of dessert. You'll only leave without feeling full if you refuse to eat. I spied more than one diner lean back and tug at their waistband. If you need more protein in your meals, snag a sangweeech at the Pullman Market just a few steps away. Nicosi becomes exclusive because phones are barred (they ask you to put a sticker on the phone). So the only people "in the know" are the ones who attend. It also forces you to channel your compulsion to doomscroll into the experience you've paid for. You commune with your fellow diners to decipher what you're putting in your mouth before the chef can describe it, only to find you are completely lost on the map. Your tastebuds search for more surprises. You say F- the phone even before the second course is laid. There's an all-women staff, and the entire experience is like watching a ballet being performed. While tweezing some rare flower stamen onto our next course, they peek up at you to watch you take a bite. You meet their eyes, and she gives you the "I know, right?" nod. Engagement is real. I would drop pics of my visit, but that's not what we do here. read more

This was an experience I suggest everyone try. Before you even walk in the front door you get a taste of what's to come. The food is innovative, delicious and just fun. Without giving too much away, the fat washed cocktail is something I can't get out of my mind. The homemade yogurt... WOW. This felt like a very upscale farm to table experience. The team was incredibly warm making this upscale experience feel inviting and not too serious. Can't wait to come back! Thank you, Nicosi. read more

Took advice from previous reviewer and had a meal before going - absolutely bad idea. Better to go hungry, imo. Got there early (17:00). Wore slacks and blazer. Was hot. Not comfortable. I waited outside until doors opened at 17:30. Was grouchy. But the dining experience more than made up for my irritable mood. Comparable to Michelin-rated dessert courses in Miami. I was so full by the end of the experience I was uncomfortable. I should have attended this on an empty stomach. Courses change once every 3 to 4 months. Looking forward to a return visit in the winter. The non-alcoholic parings were perfect. At other establishments, my wife and I were left feeling out-of-place (drinks were obviously different from the rest of the party; felt a little ostracized, as if we had cool-aid while the cool patrons drank mixers). At Nicosi, the non-alcoholic drinks appeared indistinguishable from the alcoholic drinks, and they tasted fantastic. Chef Espinoza and team were great. read more

Nicosi - Fortune cookie gift at end of experience. Thank you, Chef Espinoza and Team. - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

I don't even know how to write this review but just know that this was such an amazing interesting experience! I felt like I was a judge on top chef or something lol receiving course after course to taste and savor, along with the drink pairings, was all in all the best eating experience I've had, ever! Beautiful and intimate too. A must try! read more

Nicosi - They don't allow photos so you can engage and get a true full experience out of it. But let me tell you, those dishes we're beautiful!! - Desserts Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Celebrated birthday here and creativity and unique taste of each bite size dessert was amazing with paired drink and loved description and story by chef. The menu changes every 3 months or so and though we were not allowed to take pictures, chef says we will get pictures and descriptions of what we ate when the menu changes again. The only reason why I didn't give 5 stars is the sous chef who used her bare hands to wrap the flurries of cotton candy around the brisket bite was a little off putting, would've preferred to use gloves. read more

The experience of eating at Nicosi was exciting, mysterious and satisfying. Each course was really beyond a dessert; but a work of art and science merged. The chefs are the artists and we, the tasters were their audience. Like theatre that can be tasted. That being said, I wanted more time to savor my food... I felt slightly rushed, and that is tough when you are sipping brandy . As an art and food enthusiast, I wanted to enjoy the full ninety minutes as advertised. Granted we are not in Europe and we are in the US where everything is moving at break neck speed, but they should have slowed their roll and let us linger a bit longer with each course. read more

Definitely worth the high price. What an experience! The dessert pairings were wonderful.

This place has wonderful food, service and ambiance. You enter when it is dark and are seated in comfortable chairs surrounding a square bar/kitchen area. The lights come on and you watch as 8-10 courses are prepared one by one over the course of 90 minutes and placed in front of you to sample. The chef explains the ingredients and inspiration for each dish. Some courses are sweet, others are savory or deliberately sour. A plethora of new flavors for your palette to enjoy. Each dish is accompanied by an alcoholic or non alcoholic drink designed to complement the food. An evening at Nicosi is a show, a culinary adventure and a special occasion all rolled into one. read more

A very unique experience. We had a lot of fun and enjoyed the food and the hospitality. These folks are passionate about the food and it shows. read more

My husband and I tried Nicosi with four friends. He and I are vegans and notified the restaurant prior to, so they could accommodate our diets. While yes, they did have a vegan option for every "course" for us, the courses left a lot to be desired. We felt not as much thought or effort went into the vegan options. For example, while the majority had a chocolate cake, we were given grapefruit sorbet. It is very easy to make a vegan chocolate cake. This happened for 3 of the 7 "courses" - our option just seemed less thought out and unimaginative. Most, if not all, vegans know the vast selections available as substitutes for traditional items. For what the experience costs, we were expecting a little more effort, especially when they clearly state they can accommodate a vegan diet. Overall, we would not go back - and none of our friends said they would go back either: it was a one and done experience. read more

My boyfriend and I had incredibly high hopes for Nicosi given its reputation and elegant atmosphere, but unfortunately, our experience was far from satisfying. From the outset, the ambiance and service were promising, but sadly, the quality of the food did not live up to the hype. The first bite you took was interesting but by your fifth bite, it was hard to swallow. Definitely not worth the money we paid. The total was $320 for 2 people and we stopped by HEB for sushi after because we were still hungry and it's not because we are big eaters. I consider us very adventurous eaters and neither one of us hardly liked any course they served. The sweets portion was really the only one we enjoyed. That being said the service and atmosphere were great, but the food was incredibly disappointing. It was also freezing cold in there, so bring a jacket if you decide to go. I would add photos but they do not allow you to take them. read more

The actual setting was very nice, and service was top notch, but I don't think anyone ever asked the question, does this actually taste good? This place was made for instagram and hype. 2 of the courses are things you can pick up at the Pullman market, nothing done to them at all, and those were the best bites. They just need someone from the outside to be honest about if the flavors actually work. read more