26/10/2026
In the Kitchen with Chef Alex: Passion, Fire, and Flavor at Hickory Restaurant
We sat down with Chef Alex in the bustling kitchen of Hickory Restaurant to talk about his culinary journey, his love for live-fire cooking, and the inspiration behind some of the restaurant's most iconic dishes.
Q: Chef Alex, welcome! For those visiting Hickory for the first time, how would you describe your culinary philosophy?
Chef Alex: Welcome! For me, cooking is all about respect for the ingredients and a deep passion for bold, honest flavors. Whether it's a slow-cooked rack of ribs or a carefully seared steak, every dish should tell a story. We focus on combining comforting, hearty classics with high-quality, fresh produce to create an experience that feels both exciting and welcoming.
Q: Looking at your menu, signature items like the Hickory Smoked BBQ Ribs and the Grilled Tomahawk Pork Chop are absolute crowd favorites. What goes into perfecting dishes like these?
Chef Alex: It all comes down to patience and technique. Our Hickory Smoked BBQ Ribs are slow-roasted and glazed in our house signature hickory-smoke BBQ sauce until they literally melt in your mouth, served alongside crispy homemade potato wedges and fresh coleslaw. Meanwhile, our Grilled Tomahawk Pork Chop is all about mastering the grill—achieving that perfect char on the outside while keeping the meat juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Q: We caught you in action by the stove working your magic with flames! How important is the element of fire and live cooking to your style?
Chef Alex: Fire brings food to life! There is a raw energy and depth of flavor that you can only get from proper grilling and searing. When guests see those flames, they know something special is being crafted right in front of them. It adds aroma, texture, and a theatrical touch to the dining experience.
Q: The menu offers an incredible variety, from gourmet burgers like the Hickory and Umami burgers to refined main courses and traditional Greek touches like Portokalopita. How do you balance such a diverse selection?
Chef Alex: Balance is key. We want to cater to every craving—whether someone wants a casual, satisfying burger with our fresh homemade potato wedges, or a sophisticated evening meal like our Black Angus Sirloin or Pan-Seared Sea Bass. And of course, ending the meal with something authentic like a warm slice of Portokalopita infused with orange zest and cinnamon-spiced syrup brings everything together perfectly.
Q: What is your ultimate goal when a guest takes their first bite of your food?
Chef Alex: I want them to smile. Food is meant to bring people together, evoke memories, and create moments of pure enjoyment. When a guest finishes their plate and tells us it was an unforgettable meal, that is the greatest reward for me and my kitchen team.
Experience Chef Alex's creations firsthand at Hickory Restaurant—where great food, passion, and fire come together!
