Hickory River Springfield N. Dirksen

08/27/2026

https://www.hickoryriver.com/franchise/

08/26/2026

08/21/2026

You better save your fork for

08/21/2026

Hickory River Smokehouse Prepares for Next Chapter After 21 Award-Winning Years on North Dirksen Parkway SPRINGFIELD, IL – After 21 wonderful years of serving authentic, Texas-style hickory-smoked barbecue to the Capital City, the ownership group of Hickory River Smokehouse has announced the upcoming sale of their property at 2343 N. Dirksen Pkwy.
The decision follows an exceptional, unsolicited offer to purchase the property. The ownership group determined that this was the perfect opportunity to capitalize on the valuable real estate investment while strategically planning the next phase of growth for the Hickory River Smokehouse brand.
"Serving the Springfield community since 2005 has been an absolute privilege," said the ownership team. "This sale marks the celebration of a successful 21-year chapter, allowing us to evaluate our long-term goals and bring our award-winning BBQ to even
more fans in the future. But before we step back, our last day of business will be August 31, 2026—so please come on out, grab your favorite plate, and help us celebrate while supplies last!"
The smoky flavors of Hickory River are not leaving the Springfield area for good. To carry on the legendary BBQ tradition, the company is actively:
● Exploring new locations that align with modern dining trends and economic efficiency.
● Seeking passionate new franchisees to step in and establish a dedicated Springfield storefront.
"We aren't saying goodbye to Springfield, just 'see you later,'" the owners added. "We are deeply grateful to our incredibly loyal customers who have made us a part of their
family dinners, graduations, catering events, and milestones for over two decades."
Loyal patrons can still get their favorite Texas-style smoked meats and side dishes at Hickory River's other thriving Illinois locations in Champaign, Urbana, and Peoria, where all gift cards will gladly be honored.
For more information regarding franchise opportunities or general inquiries, please visit
https://www.hickoryriver.com.

08/19/2026

Swing through the Hickory River Smokehouse drive-thru and grab a meal that's packed with flavor.

08/14/2026

Looking to treat yourself? Swing by Hickory River Smokehouse for our mouthwatering Barn Burner Sandwiches!

08/12/2026

We put BBQ on waffle fries.

Then we added MORE stuff.

And now we're not sure if we're legally allowed to call them “fries” anymore. 😂

Crispy. Cheesy. Loaded. BBQ-packed. Completely unnecessary in the best possible way.

Limited time only, because apparently we can't be trusted with this much deliciousness year-round. 🤷‍♂️

Come get them before they're gone!

08/11/2026

That warm, sweet, comforting bite of goodness is the perfect way to finish a plate of Hickory River Smokehouse BBQ.
Because around here, dinner isn't complete until somebody says:
“Should we get a cobbler?”
The answer is always YES.
Come hungry. Leave happy. And maybe grab an extra one for later.

08/07/2026

What are you waiting for? Get them before they are gone!