Looking for a family-friendly BBQ restaurant in Chester? Hickory’s Smokehouse sits right on the River Dee and serves up authentic American smokehouse classics—from fall-off-the-bone ribs to Southern-fried chicken. With riverside seating, a kids’ cinema room, cocktails, and dog-friendly areas, it’s the perfect spot for brunch, dinner, or just drinks with a view.
Whether you’re after a hearty brunch, a riverside dinner, or somewhere to entertain the kids while sipping a cocktail, Hickory’s delivers on all fronts—and then some.
📞 Address & Contact Info
📍 Address: The Groves, Souters Lane, Chester, CH1 1AG
📞 Telephone: 01244 404000
📧 Email: chester@hickorys.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.hickorys.co.uk
🕒 Opening Hours
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Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
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Brunch served until: 2:00 PM
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Kitchen closes: Around 9:30–10 PM
They’re open 7 days a week, and yes—they welcome dogs (ask for a dog-friendly table when booking!).
🍖 The Food – A BBQ Feast Worth Traveling For
Hickory’s smokehouse Chester brings an authentic slice of the American South to Chester, with a smoker imported from Memphis and a menu packed with soul.
🔥 Mains Highlights
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Texas-Style Brisket: Smoked low & slow for over 14 hours. Melts in your mouth.
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Memphis-Style Baby Back Ribs: Tender, smoky, and slathered in their signature BBQ sauce.
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Chicken Fried Chicken: Southern-fried, golden, and ridiculously moreish.
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Hickory’s Smokehouse Platter: For the indecisive—or the brave. Brisket, ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken wings, slaw, corn, and fries. A feast for two (or more!).
🍔 Burgers & Comfort Food
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“Go Big or Go Home” burger – two patties, cheese, streaky bacon, pulled pork, onion rings.
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Buttermilk Chicken Burger with Carolina slaw.
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Mac ’n’ Cheese Skillet, Corn Dogs, and Frickles (fried pickles)—Southern sides done right.
☕ Brunch with a Twist
Brunch is a big deal at Hickory’s. Available daily until 2 PM.
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Smoked Brisket Hash
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Buttermilk Pancakes with Streaky Bacon & Maple Syrup
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Southern Breakfast Muffins – Think McMuffin, but on steroids.
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Bottomless Filter Coffee (“Cup of Joe”) – £2.50
🍹 Drinks Menu – Bourbon, Beer & Shakes
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Over 25 bourbons including Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and Maker’s Mark.
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Craft Beers: Both UK and US brews on tap & bottle.
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Signature Cocktails:
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Southern Belle – gin, elderflower & Prosecco
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Hurricane Hickory’s – a fruity, boozy New Orleans classic
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Frozen Margaritas & Boozy Slushies
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Non-Alcoholic Options: House-made sodas, milkshakes (the Oreo one is next level!), and fresh iced teas.
💰 Prices
Food
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Starters: £5 – £8
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Mains: £13 – £25
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Smokehouse Platters: £26+
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Brunch Dishes: £6 – £12
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Desserts: £6 – £8 (S’mores and Campfire Cookie Sandwich are must-tries)
Drinks
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Craft Beer & Ale: £4 – £6.50
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Cocktails: £8 – £11
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Milkshakes: £4.50
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Soft Drinks: £2.50 – £3.50
🎈 Atmosphere & Ambience
The vibe is warm, rustic, and distinctly Southern—with reclaimed wood, hanging lanterns, booth seating, and blues music playing softly in the background. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Louisiana smokehouse.
🍽️ Indoor & Outdoor Seating
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Large interior with bar area
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Private dining booths
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Riverside terrace with heaters for colder months
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Dog-friendly seating options
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Great views of the River Dee—perfect for summer evenings
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly Features
Hickory’s is ideal for families:
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Kids’ Menu: Chicken lollipops, popcorn shrimp, mini burgers, and mac & cheese.
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Drinks: Milkshakes, floats, mini sodas.
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Cinema Room: Free entry with cartoons playing throughout the day.
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Colouring menus, high chairs, and baby changing available.
🎉 What’s On & Special Offers
Weekly Deals
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Mon–Thu from 4 PM:
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Monday: Big Chicken Bucket – £12.99
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Tuesday: The Big Dog (footlong hotdog) – £12.99
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Wednesday: Steak & Shake – £12.99
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Thursday: BBQ Blowout (ribs, pulled pork, slaw, fries) – £19.99
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Lunch Deal
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Sub & Soda: Any hot sandwich + soft drink – £11.99 (Mon–Fri until 2 PM)
Friday Special
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“Thank Hick’s It’s Friday” 2-for-1 Cocktails every Friday 4–9 PM
🔥 Insider Tips
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Book early, especially on weekends—the riverside tables go fast!
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Ask for the “secret bourbon menu” if you’re into your whiskey.
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Visit during Chester Races for a pre- or post-race meal with a view.
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They do takeaway & delivery, too—perfect for river picnics or home feasts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hickory’s Smokehouse Chester
Q: Where is Hickory’s Smokehouse Chester located?
A: The restaurant is located at The Groves, Souters Lane, Chester, CH1 1AG, by the River Dee.
Q: Do I need to book a table?
A: Booking is highly recommended, especially on weekends. You can book online or by calling 01244 404000.
Q: Is it family friendly?
A: Very much so! Hickory’s has a dedicated kids’ menu, mini cinema, colouring packs, and highchairs.
Q: Is Hickory’s Chester dog friendly?
A: Yes! Dogs are welcome in certain indoor zones and on the outdoor terrace.
Q: What kind of food do they serve?
A: They specialise in slow-smoked BBQ including ribs, brisket, burgers, fried chicken, and Southern-inspired brunch.
Q: Do they have vegan or vegetarian options?
A: Yes. There are veggie burgers, mac ’n’ cheese, and salads. Vegan options are limited, so check with staff.
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Brunch is served until 2 PM.
Q: Do they offer takeaway?
A: Yes, you can order takeaway online or through selected delivery apps.
Q: Are there special offers?
A: Yes—look out for 2-for-1 cocktails on Fridays and seasonal set menus. Offers change often, so check online.
⭐ Final Thoughts
Hickory’s Smokehouse Chester is a standout destination whether you’re a local or visiting the city. With unbeatable BBQ, warm service, family-friendly extras, and a scenic riverside setting, it’s one of Chester’s true gems.
If you’re craving smokehouse soul food, hearty brunch, or just a place to relax with a cold beer and river views—this is your place.
