Last updated: 2025-04-07
Downtown Hickory’s brunch scene brings together Southern comfort and modern flair. From The Hickory Station’s classic breakfast plates to Notions’ creative morning offerings, local spots serve up hearty portions with Carolina hospitality.
Frothy Rooster draws crowds with its signature coffee drinks, while Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse & Gallery pairs fresh-baked pastries with local art displays. These Catawba Valley favorites make weekend mornings worth savoring.
Discover downtown Hickory’s best breakfast spots below!
Featured Brunch Spots in Hickory
- The Hickory Station
- First Watch
- Granny's Country Kitchen
- Backstreets Bar and Grill
- Cafe Rule & Wine Bar
- Notions
- Cracker Barrel
- Frothy Rooster
- Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse & Gallery
Backstreets Bar and Grill
What to Expect
Longtime local restaurant with neighborhood bar atmosphere
Description
Hickory's beloved neighborhood bar and grill serving up classic American comfort food since 1996. Locals flock to this laid-back spot for hearty burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its casual vibe and consistent quality, Backstreets offers a reliable dining experience with a menu that celebrates traditional bar fare and local favorites.
Where: Hickory | More Info: Backstreets Bar and Grill
Cafe Rule & Wine Bar
What to Expect
Wine-focused contemporary dining experience
Description
Cafe Rule offers an elegant dining experience in Hickory's culinary scene, showcasing sophisticated wine pairings and contemporary American cuisine. While primarily an evening dining establishment, their chef-driven menu promises refined culinary craftsmanship with an emphasis on creative, seasonally-inspired dishes that elevate traditional dining expectations.
Where: Hickory | More Info: Cafe Rule & Wine Bar
Cracker Barrel
What to Expect
Nostalgic country store dining experience with homestyle Southern breakfast
Description
Southern-style comfort food destination serving hearty breakfast and brunch classics. Specializes in country-inspired dishes like Momma's Pancake Breakfast and Grandma's Sampler, featuring fluffy buttermilk pancakes, grilled chicken tenders, and homestyle sides. The restaurant offers a warm, nostalgic atmosphere with rustic decor, traditional country store elements, and generous portions that celebrate American home cooking traditions.
Where: Hickory | More Info: Cracker Barrel
First Watch
What to Expect
Seasonal menu rotation with fresh, made-from-scratch ingredients
Description
First Watch offers a vibrant daytime café experience specializing in fresh, made-to-order breakfast and brunch dishes. Their spring seasonal menu features standout items like the B.E.C. sandwich with bacon, egg, and cheddar. Known for their commitment to quality ingredients and a welcoming morning atmosphere, they serve classic American brunch fare from 7am to 2:30pm daily.
Where: Hickory | More Info: First Watch
Frothy Rooster
What to Expect
Locally sourced Southern-inspired breakfast innovations
Description
Hickory's contemporary brunch spot serving up creative Southern-inspired breakfast classics with a twist. Specializing in their signature Crow's Nest Benedict - a decadent dish featuring locally sourced ingredients and house-made hollandaise. Casual, urban-chic atmosphere perfect for weekend brunch enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and craft breakfast fare.
Where: Hickory | More Info: Frothy Rooster
Granny's Country Kitchen
What to Expect
All-day breakfast with authentic Southern homestyle cooking
Description
Granny's Country Kitchen serves hearty Southern-style breakfast and brunch classics across three North Carolina locations. Specializing in all-day breakfast favorites like fluffy buttermilk pancakes, country ham biscuits, and crispy chicken and waffles, this local gem offers homestyle comfort food. Their welcoming atmosphere and generous portions make it a go-to spot for locals seeking authentic Southern breakfast experiences.
Where: Hickory | More Info: Granny's Country Kitchen
Notions
What to Expect
Tapas-style weekend brunch with craft cocktail pairings
Description
Notions offers an eclectic brunch experience in downtown Hickory, featuring creative tapas-style dishes and craft cocktails. Weekend brunch highlights include innovative small plates that blend local ingredients with contemporary culinary techniques. Their Saturday and Sunday brunch menu provides a dynamic dining adventure with shareable dishes that showcase the restaurant's commitment to unique flavor combinations.
Where: Hickory | More Info: Notions
Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse & Gallery
What to Expect
Art gallery and coffeehouse combination
Description
Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse & Gallery offers a cozy cafe experience in downtown Hickory, blending artisan coffee with local art showcases. Their brunch menu features fresh-baked pastries, locally sourced breakfast sandwiches, and creative coffee drinks. The intimate gallery space provides a unique backdrop for enjoying light morning fare and specialty espresso beverages crafted with care.
Where: Hickory | More Info: Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse & Gallery
The Hickory Station
What to Expect
Historic train station transformed into a brewery and restaurant
Description
The Olde Hickory Station offers a distinctive brunch experience in downtown Hickory, housed in a restored historic train station. Weekend brunch highlights include seasonal regional specialties, fresh-baked pastries from their in-house bakery, and craft cocktails. Their full-service bar features 50 beers and ciders on tap, with a focus on Olde Hickory Brewery's own selections and guest brews.
Where: Hickory | More Info: The Hickory Station
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