Smokin’ Hot for Spring: Hickory’s Chester Serves Up a New Season of Flavour
There are some restaurants that don’t just join the Cheshire dining scene – they help shape it. Hickory’s Smokehouse in Chester is one of those rare success stories. A proud member of Taste Cheshire since day one, the original Chester restaurant was the spark that ignited what has now become a much-loved collection of Smokehouses across the UK. Along the way, they’ve picked up multiple Taste Cheshire awards – and one visit is all it takes to understand why.
This week sees the launch of their brand-new Spring/Summer menu, and it’s safe to say… it’s worth getting excited about.
Born from a road trip through America’s Southern States, Hickory’s has always stayed true to its roots. The team learned their craft from some of the South’s most respected pitmasters, and that influence runs through every inch of the experience – from the low ‘n’ slow cooking to the warm, genuine hospitality that greets you at the door.
The new menu builds beautifully on that foundation. Alongside the Hickory’s favourites we all know and love, there’s a fresh wave of dishes and drinks inspired by their latest travels. Think lighter seasonal plates, sociable sharing options, and vibrant new flavours designed for long lunches, relaxed evenings, and those spontaneous get-togethers that turn into something special.
And brunch? It’s had a serious glow-up.
Served daily until 2pm, Hickory’s brunch offering leans into everything that makes this mealtime such a joy. From Southern-inspired classics to indulgent stacked showstoppers, it’s a menu made for lingering. Add in freshly brewed coffee, iced drinks and sweet teas, and you’ve got the perfect excuse to start your day a little slower – and a lot tastier.
At the heart of it all, though, is the Smokehouse.
Authenticity is everything here, and it starts with their ‘Ole Hickory’ smokers from Missouri and ‘Southern Pride’ smokers from Tennessee – proudly on show and working their magic daily. The result? Deep, rich flavours and meat so tender it practically falls off the bone. But it’s not just the equipment – it’s the skill and passion of the pitmasters behind it. As they say at Hickory’s, “Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear aprons.”
Whether you’re diving into a full BBQ tray, sampling a bit of everything with a platter, or exploring the wider menu beyond the smoker, there’s something for every appetite and occasion. And a word to the wise: don’t skip the appetisers or desserts. You’ll thank yourself later.
The bar has also been busy shaking things up for the season ahead. Expect easy-drinking cocktails, Southern-inspired serves, homemade sodas, hard shakes and a bourbon list that tells its own story of those American road trips. It’s the kind of place you can pop in for one… and happily stay for a few.
There’s even more reason to visit midweek with their Smokin’ Deals, running Monday to Thursday from 3pm. Each day brings something different to the table, with exclusive dishes that showcase the best of the Smokehouse and beyond.
And when Friday rolls around? It’s time for “Thank Hicks It’s Friday”. From 4pm, you can ease into the weekend with £6 cocktails, £4 Driftaway IPA, £5 wine and Southern-inspired alcohol-free options – all set to a soundtrack straight from the Deep South.
Families are, as always, right at the heart of Hickory’s. The children’s menu strikes that perfect balance between familiar favourites and fun treats, while thoughtful touches like the movie room and fro-co station make it just as enjoyable for grown-ups.
Simply put, Hickory’s continues to do what it does best – delivering an experience that’s full of flavour, warmth and a genuine sense of occasion.
So whether you’re revisiting an old favourite or discovering something new from the Spring/Summer menu, now’s the perfect time to head back to where it all began.
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