Take your first look inside Cardiff’s brand-new Hickory’s Smokehouse, which has undergone a huge transformation to bring a one-of-a-kind Southern-style restaurant to the capital. The much-loved BBQ brand has completely reimagined the building in St Mellons, creating a smokehouse packed with character, atmosphere, and authentic Deep South flavour.
With just two weeks to go until the official opening, locals can look forward to an experience that begins the moment they step through the door. From the warm Southern welcome to the vibrant flavours and lively hospitality, everything has been designed to give guests a true taste of the Deep South right here in Cardiff.
This opening is an especially exciting one. It’s the third Hickory’s in Wales (joining Rhos-on-Sea and Wrexham) and the very first in a UK capital.
All the stops have been pulled out to make Hickory’s Cardiff something really special. Guests will be able to enjoy one of Hickory’s biggest bar areas yet, designed to bring back that neighbourhood buzz, while those looking for something a little more private can discover a secret dining room tucked away from the main space.
Cardiff will feature Hickory’s first boothed chefs’ bar so that guests can see the Pitmasters at work, quite possibly the best seats in the house! Plus, there’s also a huge bar terrace, perfect for anyone who prefers sipping something cold in the fresh air, and, for those crisp winter days, they’ve added a retractable roof so you can enjoy the space no matter the weather. Inside, think warm Southern vibes, cosy booths, a buzzing bar, and plenty of space to kick back with family and friends, with every detail designed to feel welcoming.
Hickory’s Cardiff is opening with a brand-new menu too. All the much-loved favourites will be on there too! Expect slow-cooked BBQ classics straight from the smokers, melt-in-your-mouth Texas-style brisket, Memphis baby back ribs, and all the fixin’s. Behind the bar, guests can enjoy Southern-inspired cocktails, ice-cold beers, and their famous freakshakes & milkshakes and sodas for the whole family. Whether you’re a bourbon buff, a cocktail lover, or just after a great pint, there is a drink for you.
We recently visited Hickory’s in Gloucester and can confirm the food, atmosphere and service really do live up to the hype. From the smoky flavours to the welcoming Southern-style hospitality, you know exactly what to expect when the doors open in Cardiff.
The buzz around the restaurant arriving in St Mellons has been incredible. At the recruitment days, parents told the team the area has been crying out for something like Hickory’s, somewhere that brings people together again. Local businesses have been shouting about Hickory’s on their socials, and some have even jumped in to help, including one who rolled up their sleeves to decorate for pre-opening events. This already feels like a true community project.
At the helm is General Manager Nick. Originally from Porthcawl, he’s been part of Cardiff’s hospitality scene for over 15 years and knows a thing or two about building great teams and creating places people love.
Nick said: “It’s an absolute dream to be leading Hickory’s Cardiff. This city means so much to me, and I can’t wait to give it the smokehouse it deserves. We’re bringing authentic flavours, Southern hospitality, and a space where everyone can feel at home. I just know Cardiff is going to love it.”
Speaking about the new smokehouse, Ben Rushworth, who oversees everything to do with guest experience and authenticity, said:
“For us, Cardiff has been right at the top of our wish-list for a long time. It’s such a vibrant city, with an incredible food scene and a real sense of identity, so when the opportunity in St Mellons came up, we absolutely jumped at it. It’s the very first UK capital we’ve brought Hickory’s to, so it feels only right that we bring our taste of the Deep South to the heart of South Wales.”
