Hickory Park was one of the first Ames' locales we found! Our first visit to the city had us driving by the place at around supper time. With the parking lot packed and dozens of people standing around, I had to think to myself, "And I thought this was the downtime in the city!"
Well, we passed on through town, heading north, figuring we'd find something else to catch our eye. Before we knew it, we were out of town already. We went ahead and went up to Story City, which is about 15 miles north of Ames, to check into our motel. Yes, a motel, as in the SUPER 8. What can I say? It was the only place with vacancies that allowed dogs, and we had Little Miss Heidi along for the ride.
Anyway, I digress, since this *is* a restaurant review. Once checked into the motel, we ventured back out for dinner. No luck in Story City, so it was on back to Ames. By now it was nearly 9pm, and the parking lot at Hickory Park looked manageable, so we stopped in. We've been hooked ever since!!
With portions too big to imagine, this barbecue place has all you could want in home-styled hickory smoked meats. Turkey, chicken, beef, and pork are the mainstays here, although you can get a burger (aka: HICKORY) here if you'd like. I opted for the pork ribs, and my hubby did the "barbecue platter," which had a slice or two of all the meats plus a quarter chicken. Add your two sides and you're good to go. The side options are all wonderful, from mashed taters and gravy to warm cinnamon spiced apple sauce. I usually opt for the small side salad and the apple sauce, while he mixes it up a bit. He does like their pork~n~beans and cole slaw, though. Heck, so do I but I try to keep it a bit healthier.
Be sure to save room for ice cream! They have a full-service old-fashioned ice-cream fountain complete with shakes, malts, dips, and sundaes. Did I mention that your place mat at the table is the ice-cream menu? That's right, a full 8.5x11 sheet of paper of nothing but ice cream sundaes and treats! When we indulge in the "screams," I like the FudgeAnna, which is two scoops of vanilla ice cream, slices of banana, hot fudge, and a sprinkle of almond slices—whip cream and a cherry (of course). Hubby likes the "David's Delight," because it is named for him. HA! He likes it because it is slathered with warm caramel and hot fudge!
You will eat a feast, leave fuller than you want to, and be out for less than $30 for a couple. Simply the best dining value, with high-quality food and great friendly service!