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Barbecue restaurant in Urbana, Illinois
What should I order at Hickory River Smokehouse?
What to order
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Chopped Brisket Sandwich
Mentioned multiple times as a standout, with reviewers saying it is absolutely delicious and one of the best things on the menu.
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Waffle Fries
Specifically called a must-try alongside the brisket, and noted as part of a very impressive meal.
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Smokehouse Chili
Highlighted enthusiastically by a reviewer as especially memorable and worth calling out on its own.
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Baby Back Ribs
Recommended for being fall-off-the-bone tender, making them one of the most appealing meat options mentioned.
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5
Pulled Pork
Praised in both platter and specialty sandwich form for being flavorful and delicious, especially with honey BBQ.
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Okra
Described as the star of the show by one reviewer, making it the most notable side dish mentioned.
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Cornbread
Mentioned positively for its great taste and as a favorite side to pair with the barbecue.
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8
Baked Beans
Called really good by a reviewer, standing out among the sides.
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9
Green Beans
Specifically singled out as the best side by one reviewer, even though it is not available every day.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 8 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 8 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 8 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 8 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 8 PM |
About Hickory River Smokehouse
Hand-rubbed BBQ infused with hickory smoke & served with hearty sides in a no-frills storefront.
Amenities
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Frequently asked
What is Hickory River Smokehouse known for?
It is best known for brisket, especially the chopped brisket sandwich and brisket plates, which reviewers describe as tender, well seasoned, and served hot. The pulled pork, cornbread, and barbecue sauce also come up often, and many people mention the portions are large for the price.
What dishes are most recommended at Hickory River Smokehouse?
Reviewers most often recommend the brisket sandwich, chopped brisket, pulled pork, baby back ribs, and the smokehouse chili. Sides that get repeated praise include cornbread, mac and cheese, waffle fries, baked beans, and coleslaw, though opinions on some sides vary.
What is the atmosphere like at Hickory River Smokehouse?
The vibe is clean, comfortable, and no-frills, with a storefront setup that still feels welcoming. People mention quick service, a friendly staff, and an interior worth checking out even if you use the drive thru, which makes it a good fit for solo meals, families, and groups.
Is Hickory River Smokehouse a good value, and what is the price range?
It is generally viewed as good value for barbecue because the portions are big and the food is filling. Reviewers mention a daily sandwich special for $12.99 and a two-adult meal plus kids meal around $50, which suggests a moderate price range for the area of Urbana, Illinois.
When is the best time to visit Hickory River Smokehouse?
Many reviews say the food comes out quickly and stays hot and fresh, so it can work well even when you are in a hurry. If you want the full dine-in experience, reviewers also note that the interior is worth seeing, while the drive thru is a convenient option for a faster stop.
