Sunday roasts are one of my favourite meals, and much like the little black dress, they will never go out of fashion.
However – and hear me out on this… As we dedicate an entire day to the roast, during the most magical time of the year (Christmas Day) I wanted to mix things up just a few Sundays away from the big day.
And so it was that I found myself at Hickory’s Smokehouse.
Everything about Hickory’s is warm, from the welcome from staff, to the toasty restaurant.
I had a very budget-friendly Hickory’s Hot Dog for just £10.
It was meaty, succulent and loaded with Kansas style BBQ sauce and American mustard.
At just a tenner, pickles included, and a very generous portion, this has to be one of my top 10 budget-savvy lunches I have eaten this month.
I think the smoked pork sausage makes a great alternative to your traditional Sunday lunch, because it is still meaty and will tick boxes for carnivores.
Dining partner had Smoked Tennessee Brisket Sub for £15.50.
This is one for those who love slow cooked meats, the brisket was meltingly good and accompaniments of Tennessee gravy and pepper sauce were great to pour over or dunk away.
Smoky Roast Okra Gumbo, which is also a side, was substantial enough for a tiny human and cost just £5.
Hickory’s also serve dessert and cocktails, so there is something for everyone, from those seeking a lighter lunch, to those keen on the full-on Americana experience.
I fall in the latter category, always regarding desserts as the main component of any meal. My sweet teeth would not let me leave without trying dessert, so we all shared cherry dessert. It was filling, the base nice and lightly aerated, and the cherry topping on the right side of tart.
It’s a great antidote for those who are on the verge of being ‘Christmass-ed out’, as the dishes I tried were non-festive.
When I visited the place was packed with families, little ones running around and mates chilling on larger tables.
I have no hesitation in recommending Hickory’s and look forward to going again.
Have you been to any place nice? Get in touch with me, I would love to know. Email [email protected] and I’ll take a look.
Location: Hickory’s Smokehouse, Swarkestone Road, Chellaston, Derby DE73 5UE