Nestled just northeast of downtown Shelby, Hickory Hills may not be the first place locals rattle off when asked about where to eat in Cleveland County — but for those in the know, this neighborhood brims with culinary creativity, classic Southern comfort, and tastes from around the globe. Whether you’re grabbing morning coffee at a local café or gathering friends for barbecue under the big oaks, Hickory Hills offers a memorable mix of hidden gems and established favorites. Here’s your guide to eating well in this vibrant Shelby neighborhood!
The Local Flavor: What Makes Hickory Hills Special
Hickory Hills is a blend of longstanding Southern charm and recent foodie revival. The area around Maplewood Drive and Hickory Street is a hotbed of culinary action, with restaurants, bakeries, and food trucks that reflect the neighborhood’s diverse mix of families, newcomers, and longtime locals. Community events, church socials, and food-centric gatherings are still going strong, giving the food scene here both authentic roots and a spirit of hospitality.
Standout Restaurants for Every Craving
Let's eat our way around the neighborhood!
*The Oak Table on Hickory Street*
A local favorite with Southern soul. Tucked on the corner of Hickory Street and Elm Avenue, The Oak Table serves up classics like smothered pork chops, fried okra, and nightly specials that keep locals coming back. Prices are mid-range ($8-$18 for mains), and the portions are more than generous. On Fridays, their slow-cooked brisket and banana pudding are nearly legendary — make a reservation if you want a seat!
*La Abuela’s Cocina*
Authentic Mexican flavors shine at this cheerful spot next to the Maplewood Mini Mart. Staffed by an extended family originally from Michoacán, La Abuela’s draws crowds for their sizzling fajita platters, birria tacos, and homemade horchata. It’s casual, affordable, and remains a top choice for quick bites or weekend dinners. Don’t skip the tamales, which sell out almost every day by 2pm.
*Biscuit & Bean Morning Café*
On mornings when you crave something cozy, this tiny breakfast nook on Magnolia Blvd wins hearts with flaky scratch-made biscuits, locally roasted coffee, and seasonal jams. The blueberry scones are often still warm from the oven, and regulars rave about their maple sausage biscuit (just $4). The café is a relaxed place to start the day — or settle in for remote work and friendly faces.
*Eastside Thai Kitchen*
Who knew you could find vibrant, fiery Thai curries and tangy noodle salads in Hickory Hills? Decidedly under-the-radar, Eastside Thai Kitchen (behind the old hardware store on Oakdale Road) is a hit with adventurous eaters. With dishes mostly $10-$15, you can’t go wrong with their pad see ew, spicy larb, or coconut-rich Tom Kha soup. The chef’s passion for fresh herbs and bold spice blends is evident in every bite.
Bakeries & Sweets: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
*Sweet Magnolia Bakehouse*
Tucked behind a string of brick storefronts on Pinehurst Lane, Sweet Magnolia is a must-stop for desserts lovers. Specializing in Southern cakes (red velvet, hummingbird, caramel), the bakery also offers artisan breads and cookies, all for under $4 each. Saturday mornings bring out the bakery’s best — with lines for their signature cinnamon rolls and seasonal fruit tarts.
*Hickory Hills Creamery Food Truck*
You’ll find this retro ice cream truck parked at the Hickory Hills Park every weekend March through October. Their hand-churned ice cream flavors (think toasted pecan, banana pudding, and local strawberry) are a hit with families and kids at heart. Prices are reasonable, and their ice cream sandwiches are spoken of with reverence all over Shelby.
Where the Locals Gather: Food Trucks, Pop-Ups, and Hidden Gems
*Backyard Smokehouse BBQ Truck*
Don’t blink or you might miss it — this bright blue food truck sets up at the intersection of Oakdale Road and Holly Lane Thursday through Sunday. The pitmaster slow-smokes pork shoulders overnight, serving pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, and house-made pickles right from the truck. There’s a picnic area for impromptu lunches, and the ribs are often named the best in East Shelby.
*Soulful Spoon Pop-Up Dinners*
Once a month, the Soulful Spoon transforms the community church hall on Willow Drive into a pop-up dinner destination. The rotating menu features dishes inspired by Carolina, Lowcountry, and Appalachian traditions — think cornmeal-crusted trout, pimento cheese fritters, and local vegetable casseroles. Reserve your spot online; these events frequently sell out.
Food Traditions that Bring the Neighborhood Together
Hickory Hills still holds plenty of old-fashioned food gatherings — from the annual Spring Strawberry Festival (with fresh shortcakes and fruit pies) to Sunday fish fries on neighbors’ porches. Church homecomings are a showcase of potluck southern sides, layered cakes, and deviled eggs that inspire healthy competition.
Local youth groups occasionally host pancake breakfasts or chili fundraisers at the rec center off Hickory Street, bringing the community together around food — and giving everyone a reason to linger and talk.
Insider Tips for Dishing Up the Best Experience
- For brunch, hit Biscuit & Bean early (by 8 am for best selection!) and snag an outdoor seat.
- At The Oak Table, ask for the daily dessert special. Their peach cobbler isn’t always on the menu, but it’s unforgettable.
- Sweet Magnolia Bakehouse accepts special orders for birthdays — the coconut cake is a local legend.
- Don’t be shy about asking locals at Hickory Hills Creamery what their favorite flavor is — you might discover a hidden seasonal treat.
The Final Bite: Why Hickory Hills Is a Food Lover’s Haven
The beauty of Hickory Hills’ food scene is how it blends back-porch hospitality with global flavor and a spirit of community. Whether you’re new to Shelby, a lifelong resident, or just passing through, take time to explore the restaurants, food trucks, and gathering spots that make this neighborhood unique. One delicious clue at a time, Hickory Hills is proving itself as Shelby’s best-kept dining secret.