Hickory’s Smokehouse is an authentic American-style BBQ restaurant chain in the UK, famous for its “low and slow” meats smoked for up to 12 hours in smokers imported from Missouri and Tennessee. As of January 2026, the brand operates over 25 locations across the North West, Midlands, Yorkshire, and Wales, including flagship sites in Chester, Cardiff, and Nottingham. The menu is centered around Southern hospitality, featuring fan favorites like the Texas-style beef brisket, Memphis ribs, and “Magic Dust” seasoned fries, with main course prices typically ranging from £14 to £28. Beyond the food, Hickory’s is renowned for being ultra-family-friendly, offering dedicated cinema rooms for kids, “Fro-Co” (frozen custard) stations, and a unique “8 days a week” smoking philosophy that ensures fresh, pit-smoked quality every single day.
The Smokehouse Experience and Menu
Authentic Pit-Smoking Techniques
The heart of every Hickory’s is the “Pit,” where custom-built Ole Hickory and Southern Pride smokers work through the night. These machines use 100% natural hickory wood to create a consistent temperature of roughly 225°F, allowing the connective tissue in meats like brisket and pork shoulder to break down into tender, succulent perfection.
A hallmark of their technique is the “Smoke Ring”—a pink band of color just beneath the surface of the meat. This isn’t undercooked meat; it’s a chemical reaction between the wood smoke and the meat’s myoglobin, a visual guarantee that your meal was smoked authentically rather than simply roasted in a standard oven.
The 2026 Main Menu Highlights
The 2026 menu balances traditional BBQ staples with creative Southern-inspired sides.
- The Starters: Favorites include Frickles (deep-fried pickles with Cajun spice) at £7.50 and Smoky Bourbon Bacon Bites for £9.00.
- The Smoker Classics: The Texas-Style Brisket (£22.00) is rubbed in “Magic Dust” and smoked for 16 hours, while the Memphis-Style Baby Back Ribs (£19.50) offer a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Platters: For those who can’t decide, the Smokehouse Platter (£55.00 for two) includes brisket, ribs, pulled pork, wings, and classic sides like pit beans and slaw.
Signature Sauces and Magic Dust
Hickory’s uses a proprietary dry rub known as “Magic Dust,” a secret blend of paprika, garlic, onion, and spices that forms the “bark” or crust on the smoked meats. On every table, you’ll find a range of house-made sauces:
- Kansas City: Thick, sweet, and tomato-based.
- South Carolina: A tangy, mustard-based sauce perfect for pulled pork.
- Voodoo: A spicy kick for those who enjoy a “burn” with their BBQ.
Family-Friendly Features (VIK Status)
Very Important Kids (VIK)
Hickory’s has revolutionized the “family meal” by treating children as “Very Important Kids.” Every site is kitted out with features designed to keep little ones entertained while adults relax.
- The Movie Room: A dedicated, sound-proofed cinema room shows family-favorite films on loop, complete with free popcorn for the kids.
- The Fro-Co Station: Children (and adventurous adults) can visit the Frozen Custard machine to build their own desserts with a mountain of toppings and sauces.
- Kids’ Packs: Upon arrival, VIKs receive high-quality activity packs with puzzles and crayons to keep hands busy at the table.
Outdoor Play and The “Secret Room”
Many locations, such as the Worcester and Southport sites, feature extensive outdoor play areas with climbing frames and the legendary “Ole Smokey” play boat. Inside, some restaurants even feature a “secret room” or hidden booths that provide a magical discovery for younger guests during their visit.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours and Availability
Hickory’s famously claims to be open “8 days a week,” a playful nod to their commitment to Southern hospitality.
- Mon–Fri: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sat–Sun: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Brunch served until 2:00 PM)
Booking and Prices
- Average Cost: Expect to pay between £25–£40 per person for a full meal including drinks.
- Reservations: Booking is highly recommended, especially on “NFL Sundays” and Friday nights. You can book directly via the Hickory’s Website.
- Walk-ins: The bar area usually operates on a first-come, first-served basis for drinks and snacks.
2026 Location Guide
As of 2026, you can find Hickory’s in:
- North West: Chester, Southport, Wilmslow, Crewe, West Kirby, Thornton.
- Midlands: Worcester, Stafford, Telford, Solihull, Nottingham.
- Yorkshire: Adel (Leeds), Horbury, Huddersfield, Sheffield, York.
- Wales: Cardiff, Wrexham, Rhos-on-Sea.
The Art and Science of the Smoke
Pitmaster Training and The Hickory’s Academy
To ensure consistency across 25+ locations, Hickory’s has established its own internal training program, the Hickory’s Academy. Every Pitmaster undergoes over 60 bespoke courses, covering everything from the precise moisture content of hickory wood to the “art of the carve” for Texas-style brisket.
Senior chefs and managers also participate in annual “Inspiration Trips” to the Southern States—visiting over 70 cities across 18 trips since the brand’s inception. This direct immersion in South Carolina, Texas, and Tennessee ensures that the UK team remains at the forefront of BBQ innovation, recently bringing back authentic recipes for Collard Greens and Smoky Roast Okra Gumbo to the 2026 menu.
The 2026 Vegan and Vegetarian Shift
In response to changing dietary habits, Hickory’s has expanded its plant-based offerings beyond simple salads. In 2026, the menu features sophisticated BBQ alternatives that utilize the same smoking techniques as their meat counterparts.
- Smoky Roast Cauliflower & Okra (£14.99): A hearty gumbo-style dish that provides the depth of flavor typically associated with smoked pork.
- The Veggie Burger (£16.99): A roast soy patty topped with a “magic-dusted” hash brown and South Carolina BBQ sauce; it can be made vegan by swapping the cheese and slaw.
- Southern Style Cauliflower Burnt Ends (£7.50): These are smoked and seasoned with the house secret recipe, offering a “burnt end” texture that satisfies the craving for smoky, crispy bark.
Comparison: Hickory’s vs. US Authentic BBQ
Sourcing and Equipment
Hickory’s is one of the few UK operators to import their equipment directly from the “BBQ heartlands.” Their smokers are shipped 4,000 miles from Missouri (Ole Hickory) and Tennessee (Southern Pride). While US pitmasters often use local oak or mesquite, Hickory’s sticks strictly to 100% natural hickory wood to maintain the signature flavor profile that gives the brand its name.
Style Convergence
The Hickory’s menu is a “greatest hits” of American styles rather than adhering to just one region.
- Texas Style: Focuses on the heavy, peppery rub of the beef brisket.
- Memphis Style: Represented by the sweet, tangy glaze on the baby back ribs.
- Carolina Style: Evident in the mustard-based gold sauce used for their pulled chicken and pork.
In 2026, many US visitors note that while Hickory’s portions are “British-sized,” the technical execution of the smoke ring and the tenderness of the meat are remarkably similar to mid-tier smokehouses in Austin or Kansas City.
Dietary Safety and Allergen Management
Non-Gluten Containing (NGC) Menu
Hickory’s provides a comprehensive NGC (Non-Gluten Containing) Menu that allows almost every classic dish to be modified.
- Swaps: Most burgers and muffins can be served in gluten-free buns, and waffles in the “Steak & Eggs” breakfast can be replaced with gluten-free bread.
- Sauces: The signature house BBQ sauce is naturally gluten-free, ensuring that “smoker fans” don’t miss out on the authentic glaze.
- Caution: While the menu is extensive, the kitchens use open pits and shared fryers, so they cannot guarantee 100% trace-free meals for severe celiacs.
Health and Safety 2026
Post-2024, the brand has maintained a “Safety Pledge” that includes heightened cleaning procedures and frequent hand-washing protocols. In 2026, they use a transparent digital allergen portal that guests can access via QR codes at the table to see real-time ingredient data for every dish on the menu.
FAQs
Is Hickory’s a franchise?
Hickory’s is an independent-style company managed as a single group, though they are backed by the Greene King group as of late 2022.
Do they offer a breakfast or brunch menu in 2026?
Yes, Hickory’s Brunch is served daily until 2:00 PM, featuring items like “The Pitmaster Stack” and XXL muffins.
What is “Texas Toast”?
It is a thick-sliced, garlic-buttered bread that is griddled until golden, served as a classic side to soak up BBQ juices.
How do they make the “Magic Dust”?
The exact recipe is secret, but it primarily contains paprika, salt, garlic powder, and brown sugar to aid in the caramelization (bark) process.
Can I book a smoker tour?
Yes! Hickory’s encourages guests to “ask for a tour” of the pits; their pitmasters love showing off the “Ole Hickory” and “Southern Pride” smokers.
Are there healthy options at Hickory’s?
The Cobb Salad and the Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon are excellent lower-calorie options that still feature smoky flavors.
Why is it called “Low and Slow”?
It refers to the low temperature (approx. 225°F) and the long duration (up to 16 hours) required to tenderize tough cuts of meat.
What is in the Voodoo sauce?
It is a cayenne and vinegar-based hot sauce with a buttery finish, inspired by the flavors of Louisiana.
Does Hickory’s have a rewards app?
Yes, the Hickory’s App allows regular guests to earn “Hickory’s coins” and receive personalized “smokin’ deals.”
Is the “Fro-Co” made on-site?
The Frozen Custard base is made to a specific recipe and churned on-site in their signature creation stations every day.
What is “Magic Dust” at Hickory’s?
It is a secret dry rub consisting of spices and herbs used to coat meats before they enter the smoker to create a flavorful “bark.”
Does Hickory’s serve gluten-free food?
Yes, they have a dedicated non-gluten menu. However, they advise that because it is an open kitchen, they cannot guarantee a 100% allergen-free environment.
Can I bring my dog to Hickory’s?
Most Hickory’s locations are dog-friendly in the bar areas and outdoor spaces, but it is always best to check with your specific venue beforehand.
What is Fro-Co?
Fro-Co is Hickory’s signature Frozen Custard, a richer, creamier alternative to traditional soft-serve ice cream.
Do they show sports at Hickory’s?
Yes, Hickory’s is a major hub for NFL fans in the UK, showing all the big games and the Super Bowl in their bar areas.
What is the “pink bit” in the meat?
That is the Smoke Ring, a sign of authentic slow-smoking using real hickory wood; it is a mark of quality, not undercooked meat.
How long is the meat smoked for?
Different meats require different times; for example, brisket is smoked for up to 16 hours, while ribs typically take 6-8 hours.
Is there a dress code?
No, Hickory’s is a relaxed, casual environment. It is common to see families in casual wear and sports fans in jerseys.
Can I buy Hickory’s sauces to take home?
Yes, many locations sell their signature sauces and Magic Dust tins so you can recreate the flavor at home.
Is Hickory’s owned by a big chain?
Hickory’s was founded by Neil McDonnell but was acquired by the Greene King group in 2022 to help fund its nationwide expansion.
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