Haley Balles
This is a small Cafe I. What I can describe as the original downtown Hickory. It’s a very neat and well kept restaurant. If you want complicated gourmet food, go elsewhere. This is like visiting your Mom or Nana’s place. I ordered a scoop of chicken salad, coffee and an order of hush puppies. The coffee came immediately. It was hot, medium brewed and you just know they clean their equipment regularly. They boast a 100% on their inspection and, they are Servpro certified. That means they have very strict cleaning procedures and, they follow them.
The food is well prepared, fresh and a real value. The chicken salad was standard, the coffee really good and; the hush puppies were cooked perfectly in clean hot oil. They were crunchy on the outside moist and tender on the inside. The portion was 12 long hush puppies! ( I couldn’t help but eat them all!).
I have left the service for last on purpose. When you walk in there’s a beehive of activity from the all lady staff.( I asked, they had a male cook for a long time but, unfortunately he passed during covid.)
This Cafe is completely owned and run by a well oiled, tidy team of women. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. The hours are 7:00 to 2:00.
What an employment opportunity for a mom that would like to work and be home for school age children .
There are some arcade games but, people were more interested in socializing with their meal. If you have a coffee clutch or breakfast club at a fast food restaurant in Hickory consider moving it to The Hickory Cafe and Arcade. It’s cleaner, faster and cheaper. I will definitely go back.
… moreRichard Payne
Like it has been for probably over 50 plus years they have the best flat topped grilled burgers in North Carolina, maybe even in the United States, hands down. The monster sized patties on their burgers are top shelf and delicious, they’re probably priced cheaper than a big burger like at Hardee’s, Burger King, McDonald’s, Culver and What A Burger. Definitely fresher, more tasty and flavorful than any of the chain burger joints!
… moreKeely Schonewolf
The hashbrowns with ham, cheese, and jalapenos were delicious! The place is clean and the staff are attentive. Never disappointed when we eat there!
… moreLinda Childs
Long standing place to get great & really good price Southern style breakfast & lunch. My brother & I had country ham, grits, eggs, biscuit, side of liver mush & coffee. Portions were very generous & tasted soooooooo goooood!! Waitresses were so friendly. I highly recommend this for a great meal!!!
… morePrince of Persia
The lady’s here are very nice and friendly they have helped me out before I usely get the some lady to take my order
… moreBear
Stopped in from out of state was not disappointed at all. Service was fast and good. Will return if in the area again
… moreShay Prosser
Basic diner food served quickly. Old school diner menu with burgers, fresh fries, egg sandwiches.
… moreTommy T.
This was my first time visiting. I was pleasantly surprised. The food was pretty good. I’ll say, only go for 1 pancake unless you’re really hungry as they are big. Service was on track. There were 6 of us and no issues. Everyone was happy with their choices
… morePhil Trick
Great place for breakfast or lunch. Nothing fancy here. A favorite with locals.
… moreDonnie Cannon
Excellent service with good old fashion cheeseburgers! Parking is sometimes hard to find, but it’s worth the effort.
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