Cardiff, here’s what you’ve been waiting for. A brand-new smokehouse has arrived in the city, and we went along for a first look and a taste before it officially opens. Here’s what you can expect when you visit Hickory’s Smokehouse Cardiff.

If you remember the Melrose Inn, you’ll be amazed by the transformation. The building has been completely redesigned, and it’s unrecognisable from what it once was. The front has been extended, and there’s now a large outdoor seating area with festoon lighting, perfect for those sunny days and warm evenings.

Inside, you’re greeted by Nick, the General Manager, and his welcoming team. The old bar has been completely ripped out and replaced with a stunning Southern-style bar that stretches along the right-hand side.

There’s plenty of space for groups and booths, along with big screens, ideal for catching both Welsh rugby and American football. Keep an eye out for a few fun nods to that mix throughout the restaurant.

The front extension has created even more seating options, and if you want to see the transformation in progress, check out our behind-the-scenes feature from a few weeks ago: Inside the major transformation of Cardiff’s first Hickory’s Smokehouse.

The restaurant is full of character, with a mix of dining spaces including areas you can hire for events and even a few secret hideaways. One of the most exciting additions is the raised seating area that puts you right at the heart of the action, overlooking the open kitchen where the chefs work their magic.

The old Wacky Warehouse has gone, replaced by an expanded kitchen, and it needs the space. But families haven’t been forgotten. There’s a kids’ cinema showing films all day and a fun dessert experience where children can create their own sweet treats.

With more than 100 staff across front and back of house, service is fast and friendly. Nikki, one of the managers, told us the team can’t wait to open their doors. Many of them trained at Hickory’s Gloucester, so they’re bringing plenty of experience (and menu ideas) to Cardiff.

Now, let’s talk food.

Starters

Kick things off with the Giant Garlic Buttered Pretzel Bites – oven-baked and served with a beer-infused cheese sauce – or try the Brisket Popcorn Bites, smoky Southern fried brisket pieces served with Kansas-style BBQ sauce.

There’s also a mouthwatering selection of smoked chicken wings, available in Kansas BBQ, Louisiana Hot or Tennessee Bourbon Glaze. And if you like it spicy, Hickory’s has teamed up with South Wales’ own Chilli of the Valley for an extra fiery kick.

Mains

If it’s your first time, we’d recommend one of the BBQ trays. Each comes with skin-on fries, pickles and house slaw, offering a great mix of flavours.

Try the Hog Heaven with bourbon-glazed Memphis-style ribs, smoky pork jalapeño and cheese sausage, hand-pulled pork and pit beans.

Or go for The Carnivore – Texas-style brisket with gravy, cowboy buttered smoked chicken pieces and hot honey glazed smoked pork belly.

There are also steaks, burgers, mac and cheese dishes and, of course, the famous Smokehouse Platter for Two, ideal for sharing.

Desserts

Save room for the Cookie Creation, featuring warm homemade cookies with toffee sauce, fro-co, fudge pieces, honeycomb and mini marshmallows.

If you’re after something playful, try Campfire S’mores – toast your own marshmallows over a mini campfire and dip them in melted chocolate. For every Campfire Marshmallow dessert sold, Hickory’s donates £1 to Cash for Kids.

Drinks

The drinks menu is just as impressive. From Hickory’s own Pale Ale to classic milkshakes, freakshakes, root beers and floats, there’s something for everyone.

If cocktails are your thing, don’t miss the – Beefeater gin, Cointreau, bubblegum, lemon, apple juice and fairground-style cotton candy. There are plenty of alcohol-free choices too.

And yes, they brunch, the Southern way – and we’ll share more on that later.

Hickory’s Smokehouse Cardiff is now taking bookings, but be quick, because this place is going to be popular.

Booking and menu: https://hickorys.co.uk/menus/

Even after leaving, we’re still amazed by the transformation. Cardiff, you’re in for a treat.