A great dining experience at Hickory’s Smokehouse: An SEN parent’s perspective


Last week, my husband and I decided to take a chance and dine at Hickory’s Smokehouse in Poynton with our two disabled children. As parents, we often find it challenging to eat out without prior planning, considering our children’s needs. However, Hickory’s Smokehouse caught our attention with its tempting menu and inviting atmosphere. We were pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome and accommodating service we received.

Welcoming and accessible atmosphere


Upon arrival, we were greeted by a friendly staff member who explained to us that we could sit outside in the shade – a gesture that immediately made us feel at ease. The menus were already on the table, and a server promptly approached us to take our orders. The option to sit outdoors was a great advantage for us, as it provided a comfortable and spacious setting for our family to have a meal!

Engaging entertainment and snacks


To our delight, Hickory’s offered a welcome surprise while we waited for our food – popcorn! This simple gesture kept our twins happily engaged, which is typically a challenge during wait times. The outdoor toys on offer also added to the fun and provided an additional source of entertainment for our children.

Delicious food and varied menu


Our meals did not disappoint. My husband thoroughly enjoyed his Texas Style brisket, which was cooked to perfection. I opted for the Mac ‘n’ Cheese, and it exceeded my expectations – it was literally the best I’ve ever had. The kids’ menu had a variety of options, but as our twins were already full from a strawberry picking session, we ordered them a side of chips, which they devoured. The corn dogs, while not stealing the show, were a fun addition to the meal. It’s worth noting that most adult mains are somewhere between £15 – £20, which is a little more than our usual Nando’s. However, after eating the food, I can 100% say, it was worth the extra pennies!

Exceptional service


Throughout our dining experience, the servers were attentive, friendly, and understanding of our situation. Their smiles and interactions with our children made us feel welcomed and really at ease. We truly appreciated the inclusive and accommodating atmosphere that Hickory’s provided. Any parent of disabled children will be well aware that many places don’t feel at all welcoming, and they can be totally inaccessible for little ones with additional needs. I’m really happy to say that we didn’t experience anything negative during our visit!


Our visit to Hickory’s Smokehouse really did exceed our expectations. From the moment we arrived until our departure, the staff demonstrated genuine care and consideration for our family. The delicious food, engaging entertainment, and exceptional service all contributed to a memorable dining experience. We are eagerly looking forward to returning when the children are at nursery to explore more of the mouth-watering menu.

*Note: Due to the dynamic nature of websites and menus, it is recommended to visit Hickory’s Smokehouse’s official website for up-to-date information on their offerings, locations, and any ongoing promotions.

Link to Hickory’s Smokehouse website

Link to Hickory’s Smokehouse menu

Link to Hickory’s Smokehouse locations

This isn’t an ad, I’m just really impressed by our experience at Hickory’s!

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