50 Best American Restaurants in Hickory

“Circus Hall of Cream offers good food at fair prices. Freshly prepared meals are worth the possible wait in the drive-through. Favorites include the monster burger and onion rings, paired with a peach shake. The restaurant serves burgers, including a Carolina-style option, and is suitable for families with kids. Note that orders may take a little extra time, but the food is worth the wait.“

“Hickory Social House offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The menu features a variety of dishes made with fresh ingredients, including the popular BBQ Brisket Burger, ham and Swiss sandwiches, pizza, and wings. The service is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant accommodates dietary restrictions and special requests, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The cheesy grits and wings are particularly praised by customers.“

“Mountain Fried Chicken is a down-to-earth eatery that serves up delicious Southern-style fried chicken. The chicken is juicy, tender, and crispy, with a gentle seasoning that's sure to please. The portions are generous, with options available for those looking for a quick bite or a filling meal. The sides are simple and homey, with a focus on authenticity. While some may find the portions a bit small, the prices are reasonable and old-school, making it a great value for the quality and quantity of food. The staff is friendly, with a drive-thru employee who is particularly endearing. However, some may find the cashier's overly friendly demeanor and insistence on tipping a bit off-putting. Overall, Mountain Fried Chicken is a cozy spot that makes you feel like you're eating at your Southern grandmother's house.“

“Olde Hickory Station is a wonderful place with fantastic food and friendly service. The beer selection is one of the best in the state, and the staff, like Dave and Phil, are great at their jobs. The restaurant offers a sweet bakery and the best Cheese Steak in town. Wheelchair accessibility is easy, and the staff is accommodating. A must-visit spot with delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.“

“Charlie Grainger's is a restaurant that offers a wide variety of menu options, including a delicious brisket plate with high-quality pickles and slaw. It's a top choice for those with gluten intolerance, as the menu can be easily adapted to accommodate gluten-free diets. The owner goes above and beyond to ensure that gluten-free guests feel included, and the entire menu can be modified to suit their needs. From burgers and fries to shrimp burgers and hot dogs, Charlie Grainger's serves up tasty dishes that cater to all tastes and dietary requirements.“

“Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is a popular restaurant known for its delightful country-style meals. Customers praise the quick and helpful service, as well as the high-quality food that meets their expectations. The restaurant's staff, including the waitress and the manager, are described as amazing and go above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience.“

“Olde Hickory Tap Room is a standard bar with a few TVs, but the food is phenomenal, and the service is delivered with a great attitude and genuine southern manners. The establishment offers a full menu to explore, including delectable options like chicken tenders and bacon cheeseburgers, paired with a selection of local beers on draft. The indoor seating provides a quintessential pub experience, with two dining areas and a barstool area by the bartender, as well as an outdoor dining area. Customers praise the cozy atmosphere, great service, and the overall appeal of this establishment, making it a go-to favorite in Hickory.“

“Windy City Grill, formerly known as Homers, is a cozy diner located in the Viewmont neighborhood of Hickory, North Carolina. Established in 1973, this local favorite offers a variety of options, from their famous cheeseburgers to a classic breakfast of livermush, egg, and cheese. Customers can choose to dine-in, sitting at the counter for a more personal experience, or opt for the convenient drive-thru. The staff is consistently praised for their friendly and polite service, creating a welcoming, hometown atmosphere. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast or a juicy burger, Windy City Grill is a must-visit destination when in Hickory.“

“The Olde Tavern is a restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, including corned beef and cabbage, potato skins, and baked potatoes. The atmosphere is pleasant, with a comfortable temperature and spacious booths. The service is great, with friendly and knowledgeable waitstaff. While some diners have noted that the portion sizes can be small and the food may not always meet expectations, the taste is generally good. The restaurant offers specials, such as .50 peel n eat shrimp, and has a breakfast menu that is worth trying. Overall, The Olde Tavern is a decent spot to grab a meal, with some areas for improvement.“

“Copper Penny Grill is conveniently located in the unifour area, easily accessible by car with short drives from surrounding towns. The staff is praised for their friendliness and great service. The extensive menu offers a variety of delicious options, from burgers and steak to Italian dishes and Mexican Tacos. The outdoor patio provides a relaxing dining experience with a charming view, perfect for enjoying a meal. The restaurant is family-friendly, offering activities like Cornhole for kids and adults to enjoy. Prices are reasonable, as a group of six enjoyed appetizers, beer, and entrees for a total of $120. Overall, Copper Penny Grill offers a great dining experience with a welcoming atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and a wide range of food choices to please everyone's taste.“

“Fourk is a popular restaurant in Hickory, known for its delicious dishes and friendly staff. The filet and steak tacos are highly recommended, and the Brussels app is a fabulous appetizer. For main courses, the Mahi, orzo chicken, and seafood melange are all tasty options. Be sure to save room for dessert, as the apple dumplings and blackberry wine cake are must-tries. While service can be slow at times, the staff is always friendly and attentive. Note that reservations are recommended, as the restaurant can get busy, especially with private parties. Overall, Fourk is a staple in the local dining scene, offering a great dining experience.“

“Sunny Side is a delightful breakfast spot with outstanding service and atmosphere. The made-from-scratch sausage patties and flavorful French toast are standouts, while the biscuits and pancakes, although a bit rough around the edges, are still enjoyable. Prices are reasonable, with a meal for two costing under $25, making it a great value.“

“Granny's Country Kitchen is a welcoming spot that opens early, perfect for those looking for a quick and fresh meal. The friendly service and delicious food, like the omelet and hashbrowns or the best chicken in town, make it a go-to place for families. With large portions, good prices, and exceptional service, it's a peaceful and clean restaurant to enjoy a satisfying meal.“

“Player's Ridge Restaurant & Bar offers a pleasant dining experience for both golfers and non-golfers alike. The restaurant is located within the clubhouse, providing a convenient setting for those visiting the golf course. The layout of the establishment is well-designed, and the staff is described as very friendly and accommodating. The reviews highlight the positive aspects of the restaurant, including the delicious food and the relaxed atmosphere. One customer even held a private event at the Ridge Restaurant & Bar, praising the fantastic service provided by the staff, particularly Heidi, who was easy to work with and super accommodating. The event was a success, with the food being served on time and every item being delicious. The restaurant also caters to the needs of golfers, as it is located in the clubhouse and can reserve specific areas for private events, ensuring a seamless experience for both diners and golfers. Overall, the reviews suggest that Player's Ridge Restaurant & Bar is a great choice for both casual dining and special occasions, offering a welcoming atmosphere and high-quality food.“

“First Watch offers an excellent dining experience with delicious food and attentive service. Servers, like Beach, provide wonderful service with a smile, ensuring a great time. The restaurant's lively atmosphere and excellent food make it a wonderful spot to visit, with a guarantee of a return visit.“

“Fresh Chef Hickory provides a lovely dining experience with great service, accommodating staff, and delicious food, including salads and lasagna. They cater well to large groups, clearly display prices on the bill, and offer convenient parking behind the building.“

“Hatch Sandwich Bar is a bustling spot with friendly service. The pulled pork grilled cheese and sweet potato fries are a favorite, while the classic hamburger and pulled pork Cuban are also delicious. The avocado BLT and veggie bahn mi are must-tries as well. Despite the crowd, orders are served promptly, perfect for a quick stop during a road trip. Prices are reasonable, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal.“

“John Boyz Cafe offers excellent burgers, hot dogs, fries, and fried chicken plates. Customers praise the incredible food quality and affordable prices. The fish sandwich is crispy and cooked to perfection. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and plan to return for more delicious meals.“

“Hickory Tavern offers excellent food and outstanding service in a great atmosphere. The staff is friendly, professional, and helpful. Despite a delay in food service due to a large family ahead, the meals were hot and delicious. The manager promptly resolved any issues with to-go orders, ensuring customer satisfaction. With attentive servers like Mike in the bar area, accommodating requests for specific TV channels, this restaurant is a welcoming spot for those looking for good food and service.“

“The Angus Steakhouse is a pleasant and laid-back establishment that serves excellent food. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff are friendly and attentive. The menu features a variety of delicious steaks, hamburgers, and other dishes, all of which are prepared with care and attention to detail. Customers have reported enjoying live entertainment while dining, and the overall experience is described as "amazing" and "outstanding." Whether you're looking for a simple Saturday night meal or a night out with friends, The Angus Steakhouse is a great choice.“

“Culver's offers delicious food, including the popular Double Butter burger and creamy ice cream/custard. While the burgers may be on the thin side, they have a good flavor. The staff is friendly and helpful, but drive-thru service can be slow. The restaurant acknowledges customer feedback online.“

“13 Twenty Hickory Pub - 1320 Pub is a charming restaurant tucked away in Hickory. The food selection is fantastic, with a mix of traditional pub fare and more creative dishes, all delicious and served in generous portions. The restaurant offers a good selection of craft beers on tap, and the mixed drinks are well-made. The ambiance is cool both indoors and outdoors, and the location is unexpected but adds to the experience. The service is generally friendly and attentive, although it can slow down during busy periods. The restaurant is a popular date spot, with special events like music bingo adding to the fun.“

“Backstreets Bar & Grill is a top-notch restaurant with excellent service. The steak and filet mignon were perfect, earning it a five-star food rating. Customers love the delicious Egg salad BLT, especially the southern-style egg salad without pickles. Some have expressed disappointment about the reduced portion size of the Tuna appetizer, which used to be great for sharing. Despite this, the place is highly recommended for its awesome dining experience, with plans to return and request the amazing server, Dave.“

“Crescent Moon Cafe in downtown Hickory is a friendly bar and restaurant known for its delicious sandwiches, especially The Rover with Turkey. With a great beer selection and accommodating staff, it offers tasty meals for both vegans and non-vegans. The homemade potato salad is a must-try. Although slightly dim inside, it's a top-notch dining experience with no downsides.“

“LongHorn Steakhouse is a restaurant known for its delicious food and friendly service. The steak is a highlight, often leaving customers with leftovers. A shrimp appetizer is also available and highly recommended. The restaurant can get busy, but on some nights, there may be no wait time. However, they do not offer reservations and may not accommodate large parties until everyone has arrived. The service is generally attentive and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience.“

“Parkway House Restaurant offers a variety of options to suit all tastes, with a menu full of choices. The polite servers ensure that glasses stay full, and the open dining room provides a welcoming atmosphere. Prices are reasonable, and the special cookies sold at the register are a delightful bonus. A great choice for families or those seeking good food at a good price, Parkway House offers a pleasant dining experience.“

“The Harbor Inn Seafood offers a fish camp atmosphere with friendly staff and fresh, hot hushpuppies. The menu provides a good variety of seafood options, including generous portions of baby shrimp. The daily specials are also worth trying. While the prices may be a bit high, the overall food quality is great, making it a family-friendly and wheelchair-accessible restaurant. Customers from Florida who visit the area regularly make it a point to dine at the Harbor Inn Seafood.“

“Waffle House is a popular restaurant known for its friendly staff and delicious food. Customers have praised the excellent service and clean atmosphere at the Hickory location, while the Conover location has received mixed reviews. The menu offers a variety of classic American dishes, including waffles, which are consistently well-prepared and served hot.“

“Golden Corral Buffet & Grill offers a wide variety of delicious and fresh-tasting food, including baked potatoes and all-you-can-eat steak. The staff are super kind and attentive, providing great service. While the price is good for what you can get, some customers may find the atmosphere judgmental, especially when it's busy. Vegetarian options are available, but vegan options are limited. Overall, Golden Corral is a great option for those looking for a satisfying meal at a reasonable price.“

“O'Charley's Restaurant & Bar offers a pleasant dining experience with attentive service and well-prepared meals. The waitress was outstanding, and customers enjoyed their salads, chicken parmesan, and steak dishes. The atmosphere was good, and the prices were reasonable, despite the occasional disturbance from car enthusiasts outside.“

“Village Inn Pizza Viewmont offers delicious pizza and a top-notch salad bar. Customers can request a specialty pizza with their choice of toppings, like pepperoni and jalapeno. Despite some issues with service, the staff is friendly and the restaurant is clean. The chocolate chip pizza is a must-try, and vegetarian options are available. With ample parking space, this restaurant is a great spot for pizza lovers of all ages.“

“Wizard's Restaurant & Saloon is a welcoming spot where guests can unwind and have a good time. The friendly staff and comfortable atmosphere make it an ideal place to relax and socialize. The restaurant has a unique decor, featuring motorcycle and automobile parts, and offers a range of amenities, including pool tables, shuffleboard, and machine-operated games. The outdoor patio is pet-friendly, and the bartender is happy to provide water for furry friends. While the menu is limited to bar food, which is mostly fried, the prices are excellent, and the service is great. The bartender is attentive, friendly, and considerate of guests' needs. However, some guests may find the smoking section outside to be a drawback, as the only entrance is through this area. Despite some minor issues, Wizard's Restaurant & Saloon has a lot to offer, and guests tend to leave feeling relaxed and entertained. The restaurant is a great spot for groups and individuals alike, and its unique atmosphere and friendly staff make it a popular destination.“

“Bootleggers' Whiskey Bar - Grill is a highly praised restaurant known for its excellent food, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of delectable options, including a renowned Reuben sandwich and mouthwatering burgers with fresh buns. The sweet potato fries are a particular highlight, melting in your mouth. The restaurant features live music that complements the space perfectly, and the owner/chef is described as a great guy. Overall, this establishment is considered a family-friendly destination with outstanding service and an impressive dining experience.“

“Olde Hickory Brewery, located in Union Square, Downtown Hickory, offers a cozy atmosphere surrounded by shops. The restaurant has a friendly staff and a varied menu. The sirloin steak is decent, but may not suit everyone's taste. The salad is generous, and the Fish and Chips are light and flaky. The brewery has a great selection of beers, including the Piedmont Pilsner.“

“Fabulous calamari, firey cheese balls OMG. Great dinner. Great service. Awesome evening!!!“

“The Vintage House Restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with excellent service and delicious cuisine. Servers like Brittany, Tatum, and Olivia are attentive to customers' needs, and the management team, including Chris, ensures a pleasant visit. Highlights include the great wine selection and entrees like ribeye and tournedos, although the yeast rolls and VH profiteroles received mixed reviews.“

“Chili's Grill & Bar serves great food, with deals like the 3 for me offer. The restaurant provides excellent service, with friendly servers like Micheal and Devin who go above and beyond to meet customers' needs. With its high-quality food and attentive service, Chili's is a great alternative to overpriced fast food chains.“

“Hickory Bread Cafe offers a great breakfast experience with fresh and well-made food, including delicious pastries like cheese croissants and empanadas. Their espresso coffees, lattes, and breakfast sandwiches are also highly praised. With a pleasant atmosphere, reminiscent of an upscale Panera Bread, this cafe is a must-visit for a wonderful morning treat.“

“Kickback Jack's is a restaurant that offers a lively atmosphere, particularly for sports fans and groups. While the seating arrangements can be inconvenient, with high-top tables and benches that make it challenging to eat comfortably, the restaurant is generally accommodating, especially for families and youth groups. The food quality is mixed, with some dishes, like the fish and chips, being described as greasy. The service can be slow, and the staff may not always be attentive to customer needs, such as spilled drinks. Despite these issues, the restaurant seems to be a popular spot for events like NBA playoff viewing and bingo nights, though the music volume can be disruptive for diners seeking a more relaxed dining experience.“

“on this rainy Sunday and attempting few other places, we ended up at The Vault. great choice for sure. we tried the daily special roast beef sandwich, delicious and great flavor! having the blood orange cider on tap was a huge hit for me also. thanks Jordi for great service. we will be back soon“

“The Honey Baked Ham Company offers a wide range of meats, including smoked turkey, oven-roasted turkey breast, smoked ham, and pot roast. Their meats are a hit with families and groups, with all ordered items often being devoured. While some may find a small amount of fat on the ham, the taste and tenderness are generally great. The company also offers a variety of desserts, including the popular NY-style cheesecake. Excellent customer service is provided by friendly staff, who go above and beyond to ensure timely delivery.“

“Applebee's Grill + Bar offers a neighborhood-style atmosphere, perfect for various occasions. The service can vary, with some waitstaff providing excellent and attentive service, while others may be less present. The menu features a range of options, such as mozzarella sticks, spinach artichoke dip, and long island iced tea. Some drinks, like the margarita, may taste watered down. Overall, Applebee's offers a mix of experiences, with potential for a pleasant meal and attentive service.“

“Red Lobster is a popular seafood restaurant known for its delicious food and excellent customer service. The restaurant is kid-friendly, offering food for children and coloring paper with crayons, and is also wheelchair accessible, with ramps for easy access. Customers have praised the quality of the food, particularly the "Crab Queso," "Shrimp N Grits," "New Orleans Salmon," and the "Captain's Platter," though some have found the latter a bit underwhelming. Overall, Red Lobster provides a satisfying dining experience for families and seafood enthusiasts alike.“

“Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill offers tasty and satisfying meals at reasonable prices. The menu includes a variety of options, with the Buffalo chicken sandwich being a popular choice. The chicken can be ordered with honey chipotle or garlic Parmesan sauce, both of which have been highly praised for their delicious taste. The restaurant has a fun and lively atmosphere, with a cool decor that includes motorcycles. It is known for its friendly staff, including the bartenders who are attentive and efficient. The beer selection is impressive, and there are daily food and drink specials. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, including the restrooms. Some customers have expressed disappointment with the limited selection of touch tone songs available. Overall, Iron Thunder Saloon & Grill is a great place to stop for a satisfying meal and a enjoyable time.“

“The Vault is an excellent restaurant known for its phenomenal food, hospitable service, and vibrant atmosphere. The owner/chef ensures a seamless dining experience, catering to all guests. With plentiful portions, a clean environment, and diverse entertainment, The Vault offers a small-town feel with all the bells and whistles. The owner is actively involved in the community, participating in fundraisers and supporting neighbors. While the doormen may not be welcoming to all, the bartenders and DJs create an accepting and enjoyable atmosphere for groups of four or more. The Vault is a highly recommended establishment in the loved little town of Bethlehem.“

“Waffle House is a restaurant known for its great service. The waitstaff, including the waiter and waitress, are described as awesome and good, with a friendly attitude and a love for their job. The cook prepares food as ordered. However, there have been occasional wait times for food and one instance of cold eggs and burnt bacon. The restaurant provides extra condiments as needed. Overall, it is a reliable spot for a meal, with mostly positive experiences.“

“Hooters is a restaurant where the friendly and attentive staff, particularly the Hooters girls, make customers feel welcome and valued. The food is generally considered excellent, with the roasted wings and Daytona wings being popular options, although some customers may find the texture not to their liking. The bartender is skilled at crafting great drinks, and the atmosphere is pleasant, making it a great spot to catch up on work or relax with friends. Regular customers appreciate the familiarity and comfort of the restaurant, with some even requesting specific servers who they know will take good care of them. While the food may not be gourmet, it's satisfying, and the beer selection is adequate. Overall, Hooters is a reliable choice for a casual meal and a friendly atmosphere, where customers can feel at ease and enjoy themselves.“

“Cafe Rule & Wine Bar offers fine food, although not exceptionally exciting, with some dishes being overpriced. The cocktail prices are reasonable, though. The breakfast buffet needs improvement in its layout. However, the scrambled eggs are a highlight, being light and fluffy. The restaurant excels in service, ambiance, and consistently good food, making it a great place to dine.“

“East Coast Wings + Grill is a restaurant that offers delicious food and a great dining experience. Their wings are a popular choice, known to be awesome and cooked to perfection. The restaurant also accommodates vegetarian customers well, with options like a flatbread with macaroni and vegetable medley. The ECW G chicken sandwich is a tender and juicy delight, and their beer selection is nice with cold options available. The restaurant is also family-friendly, with fast service, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere with good music. They make up for a bad dining experience elsewhere, making it a great alternative to other chain restaurants.“

“Dickey's Barbecue Pit is a restaurant that offers a great barbecue experience with amazing food and service. The brisket is a highlight, known for its amazing flavor and tenderness. The kielbasa is also plentiful and delicious. The three-meat tray is a popular choice, and the pecan pie is a must-try for dessert. The staff, including Kim, are friendly and helpful, providing great customer service. The only improvement suggested is for the packaging of the pie and bread to be switched. The restaurant has a convenient location off Interstate 40 and offers a great atmosphere with good music. Overall, it is a recommended spot for anyone in the area looking for delicious barbecue.“