Hickory’s

Hickory’s is a renowned restaurant chain with 17 locations scattered across the Midlands and the North. Despite its growing popularity, I couldn’t help but notice the absence of any branches in the South, which seems like a missed opportunity for those of you down there craving authentic smokehouse flavours.

Upon entering Hickory’s, the real American rustic barbecue venue grabbed your attention  The restaurant features a spacious interior with various seating options, including charming benches and cosy huts, complemented by a glorious garden. I loved how the open kitchen added to the experience, allowing me to witness the magic behind the scenes while I eagerly awaited my meal.

As I browsed through the extensive menu, it became clear that Hickory’s takes pride in its Smokehouse offerings. I decided to order the Smokehouse platter, which costs £33 for one person or £60 for two. This feast included an enticing array of meats: Texas-style beef brisket, Memphis-style ribs, barbecue pork, and bourbon-glazed chicken wings. I also opted for a side of Cajun onion rings and a refreshing Hickory Cobb salad, which can be customised with delicious add-ons like char-grilled chicken or bourbon bacon.

The platter was a sight to behold, featuring tender ribs, juicy chicken wings, flavourful sausage, and a generous portion of coleslaw alongside skin-on fries. I started with the sausage, and its spicy flavour paired with the rich, cheesy texture left me wanting more. The chicken wings were deliciously sweet and juicy, perfectly coated with a barbecue glaze. However, I found the baby ribs to be slightly dry, which was a bit disappointing.

Each item on the platter brought its own unique flavour profile. The brisket stood out, tender and packed with smoky goodness, while the cornbread offered a delightful maple sweetness. The coleslaw, with its creamy texture and hint of sweet onion, perfectly complemented the richness of the meat. As I savoured each bite, I appreciated the thoughtful combination of flavours and textures.

Overall, my dining experience at Hickory’s was impressive, and I believe it offers excellent value for money especially for a family. The total bill for the platter, onion rings, and salad came to just over £55, including a discretionary tip. I left with a full belly and a smile, rating my experience an 8.5 out of 10. I wholeheartedly recommend Hickory’s for anyone seeking a memorable meal, and I hope to see them expand their locations to the South soon. I just hope the ribs are better next time!