A Pride Park restaurant has been crowned one of the busiest pre-match hotspots for Derby County fans, thanks to its prime location, outdoor space, unbeatable matchday deal and its famous naanwich.
Nicco Restaurant & Bar, just a short walk from the stadium, welcomed more than 15,500 guests last season.
In that time, hungry Rams supporters have tucked into 3,500 naanwiches and washed them down with an impressive 26,800 pints.
Available as part of a grab-and-go matchday deal for £13.50 including a pint, the naanwich has become a cult favourite among fans.
With a choice of chicken tikka, herb paneer tikka and gilafi seekh kebab, the hearty handheld creation offers a fresh twist on the traditional matchday pie or burger, and is available subject to match day timings.
Each folded naan bread comes with its own tasty combination of fillings. The chicken tikka version, for example, consists of chargrilled chicken, fresh mixed salad, a sprinkle of cheese and a drizzle of mint-flavoured mayonnaise.
The herb paneer tikka is filled with Indian cottage cheese, fresh mixed salad and drizzled with mint chutney. And the gilafi seekh kebab comes with mixed lamb kebab seasoned with garlic, spices and a sprinkle of cheese, all served with fresh mixed salad and drizzled with mint mayo.
Bhav Kumar, who runs Nicco with husband Sanj, said: “We’ve always loved the buzz of matchdays, but this season is set to be our biggest yet. We see queues forming well before kick-off, as fans love the value of the grab-and-go deal, the convenience of our location and, of course, the naanwich itself.
“It’s been brilliant to be part of the build-up to so many games. We’ve had supporters telling us it’s become a matchday tradition, which is the biggest compliment we could ask for.”
With its spacious outdoor seating area, Nicco has become the perfect pre-match meeting point. Rams fans can grab their food and drink, soak up the atmosphere, and be at the turnstiles in minutes.
Bhav added: “Football is about community, and it’s been fantastic to welcome so many familiar faces week after week. We can’t wait to see everyone again next season.”
For menus, opening hours and more information, visit www.niccorestaurant.com
The Grab and go deal is subject to match day timings and only available for outside dining.
