Hickory River Smokehouse - Tipp City, Ohio

Joseph (.

It's not Texas style. It's not Memphis style. It's not Kansas's or Carolina style either. This is just local BBQ done the way locals seem to like it. Locals seem to really like. As for me, it's just okay but not my preferred style.

Some items to note. Cornbread here, not plain white bread or Texas Toast. Thick bold sauce here, not thin vinegar based or brown surgar sweet or excessive dry rub on this lightly smoked meat.

The slaw was terrific. Was pleased that it was not mayo based. A good splash of apple cider vinegar would have made it a wow (or if they like to stick with being different, a splash of rice wine vinegar would hit the spot as well).

The potato salad was a standard mustard style. It was executed perfectly for that style. It's just not my style.

The chili was definitely local northern style as it was bean and tomato based. While not my preferred style, the chili had a nice mild flavor everyone could enjoy, although a bit on the soupy side. Thicker and spicier would be my style, hold the beans too.

The sausage was good quality. The bold sauce overpowered the sausage though. Next time, sauce on the side or skip the sauce when it comes to the sausage.

The ribs were a nice cut, trimmed perfectly, and average on tenderness. The sauce for me though, too thick and too bold on flavor. And the rub, didn't seem to exist.

Finally the quarter chicken. This was a great bird. The meat juicy and tender. Would have liked a little more smoke and a lot more rub, but overall the chicken was great. Just skip the sauce or get it on the side (note to self who is not a fan of any of the three sauce choices).

So it's local Ohio BBQ. It's the local way. And the locals seem to give this bold saucy, lightly rubbed, and lightly smoked style the thumbs up. As for me, it's just okay (skip the sauce).

Brad M.

Had an unplanned group of about 15 roll in on a Sunday afternoon. I found out as we arrived that nobody had actually called ahead. The staff were very accommodating with our group and even let us sit in the group area. The service was fast and the food was delicious (as always) which led to a wonderful experience by all. I would highly recommend Hickory River!

Randy C.

The brisket was very dry. When the young lady, she also worked the cash register, came by and asked, her only response was I’m sorry. She did not seem that concerned. The rest of my food was okay, sauces were pretty good. Disappointing that the most expensive meat on the menu was quite subpar.

Jason S.

Pretty solid place, don’t expect that much but was happy to try as it was in walking distance of my hotel. Overall excellent experience with service, cleanliness, and value of food great.

Had half chicken, slaw, green-beans and cobbler. They were kind enough to give me a brisket sample. The stars were the coleslaw as it definitely was delicious and super unique and the brisket was definitely a surprise with smoke ring and taste.

Michael G.

Food was great. Way better then City BBQ or Smokey bones. Also have lunch specials that are at a great price. Good food, clean place to eat and service was great.

Melissa M.

Usually love stopping by. Not today. I always ask for extra sauce and picture is what I got. Had to honk to get Sidneys attention and was trying to tell her there was minimal sauce to thus 18$ dinner. She gave a flippant sort of sigh and went to get me a tiny cup of sauce. When I said I needed more she got another cup and annoyed I drove off after I got her name. Called manager to let them know. I'm happy to pay extra for sauce if needed. Some named Patience or Stacy answered and was very dismissive and asked if that's all I called about. Both kinda rude and I don't know them nor did I give an attitude but was treated like I was being overly irrational and brushed off. Rethinking this spot.. it's always my go to.
Pretty dry brisket and they could just have covered it up with sauce but instead they said.. nope, not on my watch. We can't give all the sauce away. Eighteen dollars for dry brisket, no sauce and all the attitude I didn't sign up for

Tim S.

First time here for our 35th Anniversary. Could smell the food outside. Service counter was great, well mannered and courteous young men. Food was delicious, meats were good and sides were good, cornbread a little dry but good.

C M.

We love this place! The food is great and very reasonably priced. Service was excellent and the food came out quickly and hot! Adding to the portions will leave you happily plump lol. Every time we drive by and that smoked smell hits, it’s tempting to stop in.