The Hickory House in Lancaster has long been celebrated for its mouthwatering dishes, warm hospitality, and inviting atmosphere. Known for its dedication to quality ingredients and classic flavors, the restaurant offers a menu that satisfies a wide variety of tastes, from hearty comfort food to lighter, sophisticated options.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the Hickory House promises a dining experience that blends tradition with a touch of modern flair.
Exploring the Hickory House Lancaster menu reveals a thoughtful balance between beloved Southern classics and innovative dishes designed to delight every palate. The menu is carefully curated to showcase fresh, seasonal produce alongside expertly prepared meats and seafood.
Diners can expect generous portions, rich flavors, and an emphasis on creating a welcoming, memorable meal.
From appetizers to desserts, every item on the menu tells a story of culinary passion and attention to detail. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence ensures that each bite reflects the skill and care of the kitchen staff.
Visitors often find themselves coming back not only for the food but for the overall experience that the Hickory House has perfected over the years.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizers at Hickory House Lancaster set the tone for a satisfying meal. Designed to awaken the palate and provide a glimpse into the kitchen’s creativity, these starters range from light, fresh options to rich, indulgent bites.
They are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a prelude to the main course.
One standout feature of the appetizer menu is its diversity. Whether you’re craving crispy fried pickles, a classic shrimp cocktail, or a hearty bowl of loaded potato skins, the offerings cater to a variety of tastes and moods.
Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and presented with care.
Many guests appreciate the balance between traditional Southern flavors and subtle contemporary twists, making the starters both familiar and exciting. The menu often features seasonal specials that highlight local produce, ensuring freshness and variety throughout the year.
Popular Starters
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy, tangy, served with a zesty remoulade sauce.
- BBQ Chicken Wings – Smoked and tossed in Hickory House’s signature barbecue sauce.
- Loaded Potato Skins – Topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions, served with sour cream.
- Shrimp Cocktail – Chilled shrimp with a house-made spicy cocktail sauce.
“The appetizers at Hickory House perfectly capture the essence of Southern hospitality—comforting, bold, and made with love.”
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking a healthier or lighter option, the Hickory House Lancaster menu features a variety of salads and lighter dishes that do not compromise on flavor. These choices are perfect for lunch or as a refreshing complement to heartier entrees.
The salads are crafted using crisp, fresh greens and vibrant vegetables, often paired with grilled meats or seafood for added protein. Dressings are house-made, ranging from tangy vinaigrettes to creamy classics, providing balance and depth to each dish.
Vegetarian-friendly options are also available, ensuring that diners with diverse dietary preferences can find something satisfying. The emphasis on freshness and quality ingredients shines through in every bite.
Signature Salads
- Hickory House Cobb Salad – Mixed greens, grilled chicken, avocado, bacon, blue cheese, and hard-boiled eggs.
- Grilled Salmon Salad – Fresh salmon filet over baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and red onions with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Garden Salad – A medley of seasonal vegetables served with your choice of dressing.
- Classic Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and traditional Caesar dressing.
| Salad | Calories | Protein (g) | Vegetarian |
| Hickory House Cobb Salad | 550 | 35 | No |
| Grilled Salmon Salad | 480 | 40 | No |
| Garden Salad | 220 | 5 | Yes |
| Classic Caesar Salad | 350 | 10 | No |
Signature Entrees
The heart of the Hickory House menu lies in its signature entrees, which showcase the restaurant’s mastery of classic Southern cuisine with a contemporary edge. These dishes are designed to satisfy hunger while delivering rich, memorable flavors.
Each entree is thoughtfully prepared using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The kitchen emphasizes slow-cooked methods, such as smoking and braising, to develop deep, complex flavors that linger long after the meal is finished.
Whether you prefer tender meats, fresh seafood, or vegetarian specialties, the Hickory House provides a diverse selection meant to delight every diner. The portion sizes are generous, emphasizing value without sacrificing quality.
Featured Dishes
- Smoked Brisket – Slow-smoked for 12 hours, served with house-made barbecue sauce.
- Blackened Catfish – Fresh catfish fillet with a spicy Cajun crust, served with rice and vegetables.
- Chicken and Waffles – Crispy fried chicken atop fluffy waffles, drizzled with maple syrup.
- Vegetarian Portobello Stack – Grilled portobello mushrooms layered with roasted vegetables and mozzarella cheese.
“The brisket at Hickory House is a true labor of love—each bite tender, smoky, and perfectly balanced.”
Barbecue Specialties
Barbecue is a cornerstone of the Hickory House Lancaster menu, reflecting the rich traditions of Southern cooking. The restaurant takes pride in its ability to deliver authentic, smoky, and flavorful barbecue dishes that satisfy even the most discerning barbecue enthusiasts.
Using a time-honored smoking process and a blend of secret spices, the barbecue meats are cooked to perfection, offering a tender texture and a robust, smoky aroma. The house-made barbecue sauces range from tangy and vinegary to sweet and smoky, complementing the meats beautifully.
Barbecue options include a variety of meats, allowing guests to sample different flavors and textures. The sides served alongside the barbecue dishes emphasize classic Southern comfort food, rounding out the meal.
Barbecue Menu Highlights
| Dish | Meat | Cooking Time | Sauce Style |
| Pulled Pork Plate | Pork Shoulder | 10 hours | Vinegar-based |
| Beef Brisket | Brisket | 12 hours | Sweet and smoky |
| Smoked Ribs | Pork Ribs | 8 hours | Spicy barbecue |
| Barbecue Chicken | Whole Chicken | 6 hours | Honey glaze |
- Served with: Collard greens, baked beans, cornbread, and coleslaw.
- Available as platters or sandwiches.
Sides and Accompaniments
Complementing the main dishes, the sides at Hickory House Lancaster are a celebration of Southern comfort food traditions. These accompaniments enhance the dining experience by adding texture, flavor, and heartiness to every meal.
The side options include a mixture of fresh vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and baked goods that echo home-style cooking. Each side is prepared with the same attention to quality and flavor as the main courses.
Many sides are designed to pair perfectly with barbecue and smoked meats, though they also stand well on their own or alongside lighter dishes. The variety ensures that every diner can customize their meal to their liking.
Popular Sides
- Collard Greens – Slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks and seasoned with garlic and onions.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet, moist, and served warm with butter.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy on the outside, tender inside, lightly seasoned.
“The sides at Hickory House are not just fillers—they are essential parts of the meal that bring balance and soul.”
Desserts and Sweet Treats
After a hearty meal, the dessert offerings at Hickory House Lancaster provide a perfect sweet ending. The dessert menu features classic Southern favorites alongside some unique creations that showcase the kitchen’s creativity.
Each dessert is made in-house using fresh ingredients, avoiding overly processed components. The portion sizes are generous, encouraging guests to indulge without hesitation.
From rich pecan pies to creamy cheesecakes, the desserts cater to a wide range of tastes. Seasonal specials often make an appearance, highlighting local flavors and traditions in a delightful way.
Popular Desserts
- Pecan Pie – A traditional Southern dessert with a buttery crust and sweet pecan filling.
- Chocolate Bourbon Cake – Moist chocolate cake infused with a hint of bourbon and topped with ganache.
- Peach Cobbler – Fresh peaches baked under a golden biscuit crust, served warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Cheesecake – Creamy and smooth, served with a choice of strawberry or blueberry topping.
| Dessert | Calories | Ingredients Highlight |
| Pecan Pie | 450 | Brown sugar, pecans, butter |
| Chocolate Bourbon Cake | 520 | Chocolate, bourbon, cream |
| Peach Cobbler | 380 | Fresh peaches, flour, cinnamon |
| Cheesecake | 430 | Cream cheese, eggs, sugar |
Beverages and Specialty Drinks
The beverage selection at Hickory House Lancaster complements the menu beautifully, offering a mix of traditional Southern drinks and contemporary favorites. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing soft drink, a crafted cocktail, or a glass of fine wine, the options are thoughtfully curated.
The bar features a variety of local and regional craft beers, as well as classic cocktails made with premium spirits. Non-alcoholic options include freshly brewed iced tea, lemonade, and artisan sodas that pair well with the flavors of the food.
Seasonal specials often highlight unique flavor combinations and house-made infusions, encouraging guests to explore new tastes while enjoying their meal.
Featured Beverages
- Sweet Tea – A Southern staple, brewed fresh daily and served cold.
- Hickory Old Fashioned – Bourbon cocktail with a smoky twist, garnished with orange and cherry.
- Local Craft Beer Selection – Rotating taps featuring Lancaster’s finest breweries.
- House-made Lemonade – Tart, sweet, and refreshing, perfect for warm days.
“A great meal is incomplete without the perfect drink, and Hickory House delivers on this every time.”
Conclusion
The Hickory House Lancaster menu is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the South, thoughtfully combined with modern influences and a dedication to quality. Every dish, from the appetizers to desserts, reflects a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and expert preparation.
Diners can expect a warm, inviting atmosphere paired with generous portions and flavorful meals that celebrate the best of Southern cooking. The menu’s variety ensures that every guest can find something to love, whether they seek indulgent barbecue, light salads, or comforting desserts.
Ultimately, the Hickory House offers more than just food—it provides an experience that embraces community, tradition, and culinary craftsmanship. For anyone in Lancaster or passing through, this restaurant promises a memorable meal that honors Southern heritage while welcoming new flavors and ideas.
