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The Hickory Pig: A Hidden Gem for Authentic Southern BBQ in Gainesville, GA

The Hickory Pig is a hidden gem nestled in Gainesville, Georgia, offering an authentic taste of barbecue culture. Known for its tender, smokey pulled pork and traditional Brunswick stew, this quaint restaurant prides itself on a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, exemplified by owner Phil. Diners rave about the flavorful dishes, particularly the pork plate that captivates with its rich aromas. While the intimate dining space may be small, it fosters a warm community vibe, ensuring customers feel right at home. With reasonable prices and generous portions, The Hickory Pig is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts seeking a genuine experience.

The Hickory Pig at a glance

  • Address 3605 Thompson Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA 30506, United States
  • Phone +1 770-503-5235
  • Restaurant type Barbecue restaurant .
  • Popular for Popular for lunch , Popular for dinner , Good for solo dining .

Photos & Gallery

The Hickory Pig: Reviews & Ratings

Jessica Hall
5

We have been looking for some little hole in the wall resturants since we moved here. Finally found this and turns out it wasn't fat from home. GREAT BBQ! We ordered a pork plate, I got the stew and slaw, husband got stew an greens. Didn't even wait til we got home to try it, the smells were so good we immediately grabbed a small bite before we left. Friendly staff and customers. Small dining room area but that was okay with us, and the prices were very reasonable!

David Fountain
5

Service is very friendly! Owner, Phil, always makes you feel welcome. His Brunswick stew is very tasty, and the pork is tender and juicy!

Gregg Schuder
5

1/9/21: Still great, small bbq sandwiches. Full of pulled chunks of smokey, slow cooked pork with just a bit of a mild sauce on the meat. Never any extra fat. Brunswick stew is the old fashioned thin, watery variety but tasty and full of meat. And when you buy a "quart" they actually give you a quart. It's mild, but you can taste the smoke in the meat. A lot of corn. A medium amount of tomatoes. No Iima beans that I notice. A tiny bit too much vinegar today. On the whole it was great as usual. Friendly atmosphere. Nice folks. No masks, no distancing (and 'dining room' is tiny). But, I'll go back (with my mask). 1/2020: Went by last week, about 4 p.m. and door was locked. Hope all is well. Great bbq. I eat here regularly but always do take out. It has the atmosphere of your utility closet. Sauce is confusing, like they forgot half the ingredients, but good. Mild. I'll bet this is someone's old family recipe. Nice family.

Susan Ellickson
5

Super friendly service. Delicious food. Relaxed atmosphere. This was our second time to eat here. Better than we remembered!

Janyce Fuller Harris
3

Had heard great things. I didn't go in but my honey did. Their food is much different from other SOUTHERN BBQ places. The food was.. unexpected, I guess. Maybe we didn't know what to order. ... Also VERY PRICY. Couldn't get this food very often anyway. As I've heard good things.. I might would try again.

Bill Doster
5

The Hickory Pig is a fantastic place to get the best BarBQ in the state. If you visit, you will be entertained by many of the regulars with historical stories and a well founded advice on legal issues, family relations, political disertations and just plan fun. All of these discussions are orchestrated by the owner ,Dr. PHIL.

Doug Finner
5

Don't let first impressions be your guide. Despite the fact that the building looks like the Big Bad Wolf could blow it down and still have breath left for birthday candles, this place is a gem in the rough. The BBQ is done on site. The pulled pork is moist and tasty. The ribs are smoked close to perfection. If you like BBQ, this place is a good choice. My wife and I had pulled pork sandwiches, chips, and cokes and were out a total of $11. THEN Phil gave us two ribs and half of a milkshake. I'm having ribs next time! But don't go just for the food. Go for the show too. Phil and 'Lil Bit' welcome you into their restaurant like you're a long lost friend. We were there for 5 minutes and engaged in conversations with a retired Marine pilot, a former cop, and some other random local. Phil provided an ongoing stream of conscious output of stories and humor while Lil Bit was his cohort in crime. This is old school hospitality that is hard to find. The only things missing to complete the ambiance were a pot belly stove and a pickle jar. Good food, good times...going back there soon!

Location

  • The Hickory Pig
    The Hickory Pig
    3605 Thompson Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA 30506, United States Hotline: +1 770-503-5235

Welcome to The Hickory Pig, a hidden gem nestled in Gainesville, Georgia, at 3605 Thompson Bridge Rd. If you’re on the hunt for authentic BBQ done right, look no further. This establishment has quickly garnered a reputation for its flavorful dishes and inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.

From the moment you step inside, the scrappy charm of this small eatery envelops you. Customers rave about the friendly service provided by the owner, Phil, who makes everyone feel like part of the family. Patrons have described the vibe as warm and welcoming, a perfect setting for enjoying a delicious meal after a busy day.

The menu shines brightest with its tender, smoky pulled pork, praised for being juicy with just the right amount of sauce. Many regulars are drawn to the Brunswick stew, which is an old-fashioned staple full of flavor. One reviewer noted the stew's rich meatiness, while another appreciated its nostalgia-inducing simplicity.

Expect to savor generous portions, like the pork plate that Jessica Hall couldn’t resist digging into immediately upon leaving. The combination of sides, including well-prepared coleslaw and greens, perfectly complements the main event. Though the dining area is cozy, patrons find it enhances the community feel—engaging with fellow BBQ lovers over shared tables.

Yet, The Hickory Pig isn’t without its quirks. Customers have pointed out that the sauces may not have the complexity found in other Southern BBQ joints, giving a nostalgic hint of simplicity instead. That said, it’s precisely this unique take that has drawn in a devoted local crowd willing to overlook any minor flaws for the sake of great BBQ.

In summary, The Hickory Pig captures more than just great flavors; it creates an experience steeped in Southern tradition, camaraderie, and warmth. If you find yourself in the vicinity, take the time to savor the dishes here—you may come for the food but stay for the genuine hospitality.

Business Information

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Has drive-through
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards