Hickory's Smokehouse, the Cheshire-founded barbecue restaurant group, will open its first Liverpool location on Friday, July 17, at the former Bear & Staff pub in Gateacre. The opening marks a long-awaited expansion into the city, with the group having operated in Merseyside for years at sites in West Kirby and Southport.
Expansion and Community Focus
Founded in 2010, Hickory's has grown to over 20 sites across the Northwest. The company targets suburban areas with strong community ties, such as Village Road in West Kirby and Folkestone Road in Southport. Managing director John Welsh previously told the ECHO not to “write Liverpool off” regarding a potential new opening.
The acquisition of the Bear & Staff pub allows Hickory's to realize its long-term plans. A key aspect of the development is maintaining a warm and welcoming bar area, ensuring locals can still socialize and drink during this new chapter. A “significant investment” has been made, and the project is expected to create 100 jobs for the area.
Statement from Hickory's
Announcing the plans, a spokesperson for Hickory's Smokehouse told the ECHO: “The team at Hickory’s are thrilled to be coming to Liverpool (Gateacre)! We are delighted to be heading to Liverpool - it’s been on our radar since the very beginning and Gateacre seems like the perfect place to call home.”
“We are so happy to be finally planning our first Hickory's in the city, we've got to know so many guests from across Liverpool who have been visiting our neighbourhood bar and restaurants in West Kirby, Chester and Southport for many years now. We are delighted that the people of Liverpool will finally get a Hickory's on home turf.”
“We’ll be spending time getting to know the local area and our ambition is to create something truly special. We are looking forward to becoming part of the community for many years to come.”
The spokesperson continued: “Coming to Liverpool and having a home in the heart of Gateacre is genuinely exciting for us all. Along with our smokin’ BBQ and everything you can expect from a Hickory’s, the bar will be a big focus for us, with a relaxed vibe.”
“Guests are equally welcome to join us in the bar for drinks as they are for dining. We can't wait to swing open the doors as we head into summer.”
Bookings Now Open
Bookings for the new Hickory's Smokehouse in Gateacre are open now, ahead of the July 17 opening date.
