Looking for a place to have a hearty breakfast or lunch? Grab a stool at the counter at Windy City Grill, or take a quick trip through the drive-thru. Ryan orders bacon, egg and cheese on toast with extra bacon, while Sam prefers the mush, egg and mayo on toast. You can't go wrong. The locals call it Homer's, and it's closed on Sundays, so visit on Saturday if you don't want to miss out.
What used to be the Hickory train station is now a locally owned restaurant and bar. Order an Olde Hickory brew to pair with brunch, lunch or dinner. They serve Southern staples, as well as burgers and late-night pizzas.
Hatch is a fun and cozy spot to grab unique sandwiches, salads and sides in Downtown Hickory. Ryan loves the Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese and Sam likes the Italian. You can't skip a side of the brussel sprouts with maple. If you want some holiday cheer in May, check out the Thanksgiving Turkey with mayo, cranberry, cheddar, bacon, sweet potato.
House of Nom Nom is a Vietnamese restaurant that services Asian-inspired burgers, wings and fries. Our favorite burger is here--the Bahn Mi Burger. It's piled with pickled carrots, cucumbers and cilantro. Grab a bubble tea on your way out for an afternoon refreshment. The movie theater is right across the street, too, if you want to catch a flick.
Bootleggers is a whiskey bar and grill right up the street from the Ridgway's house. They offer a wide variety of whiskeys, moonshines and single malts. You don't want to drink on an empty stomach, so order pizza from the adjoining restaurant, Wood, that serves wood-fired pizzas.
Craving a taste of the great outdoors? Riverbend Park features 450 acres with 1-mile of shoreline along the Catawba River and 12 miles of trails. Sam used to run in cross country meets at Riverbend Park. It's the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.
The Downtown Hickory Farmers Market happens every Saturday morning on Union Square. Check the local vendors and then stroll around the square to visit other local shops.