Hickory Train Depot
Dine in a historic 1880s train depot, savoring creative American dishes, craft beers, and unique market finds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed dining
Hickory Train Depot
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed dining
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dine in a historic 1880s train depot, savoring creative American dishes, craft beers, and unique market finds.
"This place was fantastic! Very busy, welcoming front door waited about 30 minutes for a table, but it's worth it!"
🎯 Explore the Market First
Don't miss the attached market's unique cheeses, wines, and craft beers before or after your meal. :wine_glass:
⏰ Be Prepared for a Wait
Popular times can mean a wait for a table, but it's worth it! Use the time to browse the market. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Train Depot Ambiance
Downtown Hickory
Dine in a beautifully preserved 1880s train station, offering a unique historical backdrop for your meal.
Craft Beer & Wine Selection
Bar Area
Explore an impressive array of craft beers on tap and a curated wine selection.
Specialty Market & Deli
Attached Market
Discover imported pastas, artisanal cheeses, unique wines, and local craft beers to take home.
Creative American Cuisine
Restaurant Dining Area
Savor dishes like hot chicken and waffles or a perfectly crispy pizza.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Plate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Market First
Don't miss the attached market's unique cheeses, wines, and craft beers before or after your meal. :wine_glass:
⏰ Be Prepared for a Wait
Popular times can mean a wait for a table, but it's worth it! Use the time to browse the market. :clock1:
🍕 Try the Pizza & Wings
The pizza has a great crispy crust, and the wings are a solid choice. :pizza:
🍳 All-Day Breakfast Option
Enjoy breakfast favorites like hot chicken and waffles any time of day. :pancakes:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Market First
Don't miss the attached market's unique cheeses, wines, and craft beers before or after your meal. :wine_glass:
⏰ Be Prepared for a Wait
Popular times can mean a wait for a table, but it's worth it! Use the time to browse the market. :clock1:
🍕 Try the Pizza & Wings
The pizza has a great crispy crust, and the wings are a solid choice. :pizza:
🍳 All-Day Breakfast Option
Enjoy breakfast favorites like hot chicken and waffles any time of day. :pancakes:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friend along to enjoy the outdoor patio seating. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique historic train depot ambiance and the impressive selection of craft beers and specialty market items. The creative American cuisine, particularly dishes like hot chicken and waffles, receives high praise. However, some guests have noted issues with inconsistent service, cleanliness in the restrooms, and disappointment with specific dishes like crab cakes.
"This place was fantastic! Very busy, welcoming front door waited about 30 minutes for a table, but while you’re waiting, it gives you time to check out their little store. They have attached. They sell their beers and a bunch of other craft beers, all in a big cooler along a whole wall. They also have a small bakery portion, they have a very large selection of THC and cannabis beverages, they have a deli cheese section that is very authentic and vast, they also have a lot of different foods for sale like pastas from Italy, sauces that you can buy and take home, wines, etc. they have an amazing selection of craft beers on draft, I believe they serve breakfast all day long and their lunch and dinner menu is a great selection of different foods. I had the hot chicken and waffles and it was perfect. The fried chicken was fresh, the hot sauce. It was rolled in hot and so good, the waffles had some kind of sugar crystal crust on them. They were sweet delicious yummy. My daughter had the chicken biscuit what she said was awesome. I will most definitely be back!"
Jennifer Curtis
"This place is a cute one! I had the most amazing salad here, loved the mimosa as well! Good little kids menu and reasonable prices. Great beer selection and nice bar area. Very attentive to detail when it came to the food. :) very pleased!"
Julia Mensch
"I really wanted to give this place at three, but I didn’t because in fairness the Hickory carnival was going on right next-door and I can see the restaurant being the way it was because of the extra customers. I met the manager. His name was William. I only stopped in ate because I was in the area. Starting with the discounts unbelievably they offer none “0” onto the food. I really enjoyed the food. The pizza was good. They had a real crispy crust. I ordered it like ham, sausage and olives. Do not get the olives. They are extra extra salty I also got the wings. They were pretty good. I could see myself eating at disestablishment again. I really like the old feel of the place. They sell lots of special cheeses, wines and other specialty items. I think you should give him a try for the old time feel. they offer what looks like a fully stocked bar. They have inside and outside eating and I think I might’ve saw a fireplace. Our waitress was named Mia. Thank you for your service."
Ms. Lisa TheReelReviewer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hickory Train Depot is located in downtown Hickory, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the downtown area. +1
Yes, there is typically parking available in the downtown Hickory area near the train depot. Street parking and nearby lots are common options.
If you are staying in or exploring downtown Hickory, the train depot is very walkable. It's a central point in the town's core.
Absolutely! It's often included in suggested itineraries for exploring Hickory, NC, alongside attractions like the Riverwalk and the Aviation Museum. +1
The depot is in the heart of downtown Hickory, close to shops, other eateries, and attractions like the Hickory Riverwalk and the Aviation Museum. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to enter the Hickory Train Depot. It functions as a restaurant and market, so you can walk in.
Hours can vary, but it generally operates as a restaurant with breakfast, lunch, and dinner service. The market and bar may have slightly different hours. It's best to check their current hours online or call ahead.
There is no admission fee to enter the Hickory Train Depot. You only pay for food, drinks, and any items you purchase from the market.
While reservations might be possible for larger groups, it's often a walk-in establishment. Be prepared for a potential wait during busy periods.
Based on recent feedback, discounts may not be readily offered. It's advisable to check for any specials directly with the establishment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
They serve creative American dishes, with popular items including hot chicken and waffles, pizza, and a good selection of salads. They also offer all-day breakfast.
While specific vegan options aren't always highlighted, their menu often includes salads and other dishes that can be modified. It's best to inquire with your server.
Prices are generally considered reasonable, especially for the quality and atmosphere. A $40 budget for two people might be tight with tip, but many meals fall within a good value range.
Yes, they have an excellent selection of craft beers on tap and also sell a variety of craft beers to go from their market.
Brunch on the weekends is a popular offering, with good prices and an excellent wine and beer selection.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic train depot building itself offers a charming backdrop. The interior, with its market and bar, also provides interesting visual elements. +1
Daytime visits will offer natural light, especially if you're interested in the market displays. Evening visits can offer a cozy, atmospheric feel.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to take photos inside to capture the unique ambiance of the historic train station. +1
The exterior of the historic building, the bar area, and the shelves stocked with specialty items in the market are all visually appealing. +1
A mix of architectural, food, and lifestyle photography can work well, capturing the historic charm and the dining experience. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main dining area can get busy, the dog-friendly patio offers a more relaxed space if you have a well-behaved pet with you.
🍻 Craft Beer Enthusiasts
The brewery aspect is a significant draw, with many visitors specifically mentioning the quality and variety of their beer offerings.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Explorers
Beyond the restaurant, the specialty market offers a unique shopping experience, allowing you to pick up local goods, gourmet foods, and craft beers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: The Olde Hickory Station Experience
Beyond the main dining area, the establishment boasts a specialty market that adds another layer to the experience. Here, you can find a curated selection of items ranging from imported pastas and artisanal cheeses to a wide array of craft beers and wines.
The culinary offerings at Olde Hickory Station are a significant part of its appeal. They are known for their creative American dishes, with standout items like the hot chicken and waffles and a well-regarded pizza with a crispy crust.
Navigating the Market: More Than Just a Grocery Store
One of the most frequently mentioned aspects of the market is its impressive craft beer selection. Whether you're looking for local brews or regional favorites, the cooler along the wall is well-stocked.
Visitors often find that browsing the market is an enjoyable part of their visit, providing a chance to discover new flavors and products.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit