1995
10
$350,000
$35,000
$750,000
No
Hickory River Smokehouse is a beloved name in authentic Texas-style barbecue, known for its slow-smoked meats, hearty portions, and welcoming Southern hospitality. Founded with a passion for traditional barbecue, the brand brings the genuine flavors of the Lone Star State to communities across the United States. Hickory River Smokehouse has become a standout in the casual dining restaurant sector, offering an irresistible combination of quality food, efficient service, and a family-friendly environment.
At the core of Hickory River Smokehouse’s concept is its dedication to time-honored barbecue traditions. Every piece of meat is smoked on-site using hickory wood, ensuring a rich, smoky flavor that keeps guests coming back. The menu highlights slow-cooked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sausages—all paired with homemade sauces and signature sides. This consistency in quality and flavor has helped the franchise build a loyal following and a strong reputation in the competitive barbecue market.
The brand’s approachable operational model and scalable systems make it an ideal investment for entrepreneurs who want to enter the thriving American barbecue segment. Hickory River Smokehouse combines a proven concept with operational excellence, giving franchisees a trusted business blueprint to succeed in their local markets.
Investing in a Hickory River Smokehouse franchise means joining a brand built on passion, authenticity, and flavor. The restaurant industry—particularly the barbecue segment—continues to grow, with strong consumer demand for high-quality, slow-smoked meats and comfort food experiences. Hickory River Smokehouse offers a unique position in this space, blending the charm of a traditional smokehouse with modern restaurant efficiency.
Key advantages of investing include:
Authentic Texas Barbecue: The brand’s unique recipes and signature smoking techniques set it apart from standard grill restaurants.
Proven Business Model: Decades of operational success across multiple states demonstrate the brand’s scalability and profitability.
Comprehensive Support System: Franchisees receive extensive training, ongoing marketing support, and operational assistance.
Strong Consumer Loyalty: With a reputation built on quality and consistency, Hickory River Smokehouse enjoys repeat customers and high brand trust.
Expanding Market: The demand for premium barbecue dining continues to rise across the USA, offering significant growth potential for new franchise locations.
Hickory River Smokehouse was founded in 1995 in Urbana, Illinois, by David and Kim McFarland and Greg and Valerie Stoll. The founders wanted to bring authentic Texas barbecue to the Midwest, using recipes and techniques perfected during their travels through the southern United States. Their vision quickly gained traction as locals fell in love with the distinct hickory-smoked flavor and Texas-inspired hospitality.
Today, Hickory River Smokehouse operates 10+ franchise locations across Illinois, Ohio, and other parts of the Midwest, with plans for continued expansion nationwide. Each restaurant maintains the same dedication to slow-cooked meats, made-from-scratch sides, and friendly service that made the original location a community favorite.
The franchise operates in the fast-casual and casual dining segment, a category that continues to perform well in the U.S. foodservice industry. With a strong brand identity, efficient kitchen operations, and a robust franchise structure, Hickory River Smokehouse stands as an established leader in the American barbecue restaurant franchise space.
Hickory River Smokehouse believes that franchise success begins with comprehensive training and ongoing support. The company provides franchise owners with the tools, systems, and knowledge needed to operate efficiently and profitably.
Pre-Launch Support
Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and restaurant design
Guidance on construction, layout, and equipment installation
Access to pre-opening marketing and local brand launch campaigns
Operational & Management Training
In-depth training at a certified Hickory River Smokehouse restaurant
Curriculum covering food preparation, smoking techniques, service standards, and management operations
Detailed manuals and SOPs to ensure consistent quality across all locations
Marketing & Growth Support
National and regional marketing initiatives to build brand awareness
Social media, email, and local promotions designed to drive traffic
Ongoing creative campaigns and seasonal menu promotions
Ongoing Assistance
Regular field visits and performance evaluations
Continued access to updated recipes, menu innovations, and cost-optimization strategies
Support from a dedicated franchise development and operations team
This full-spectrum support ensures that franchisees are never alone in their business journey—from the moment they sign their agreement to years after their restaurant opens.
Hickory River Smokehouse is looking for passionate, business-minded entrepreneurs who share its love for authentic barbecue and exceptional service. The ideal franchisee should be community-oriented and committed to delivering a memorable dining experience.
Preferred Franchisee Qualities:
Prior experience in restaurant or hospitality management is an advantage but not mandatory
Strong leadership and people-management skills
Willingness to follow proven systems and operational guidelines
Ability to engage with the local community and promote the brand
Adequate financial resources to sustain initial operations and marketing efforts
Investment Capability & Location Preference:
Hickory River Smokehouse franchises perform best in mid-sized to large cities, suburban communities, and high-traffic commercial areas. Ideal locations include regions with a mix of residential neighborhoods and retail or entertainment districts, ensuring steady dine-in and takeout traffic.
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $350,000 – $750,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $150,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fund | 2% of Gross Sales |
| Infrastructure & Equipment Cost | $200,000 – $400,000 |
| Initial Marketing Budget | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| Average ROI | 15% – 25% annually |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 18 – 24 months |
| Franchise Units (Approx.) | 10+ operating locations |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Takeout, Catering, Online Orders, Delivery Services |
With competitive franchise fees and attractive ROI potential, Hickory River Smokehouse represents a promising investment opportunity in the booming barbecue restaurant segment.
