About Us
Get To Know Us!
The first Hick’ry Pit restaurant was founded in Oakland, CA, by Emil Villa in 1928. Mr. Villa immigrated to the United States from Italy and started a bakery, drawing on his background in baking. But his plans shifted fast when the barbecue spot next door went up for sale.
His drive pulled him in—he bought the place, tore down the wall, and launched Hick’ry Pit: a restaurant built around wood-smoked barbecue and homemade baked goods!
It was a hit from day one, thanks to Mr. Villa’s sharp eye for detail and top-notch standards. As word spread, so did his spots. In October 1958, he opened his sixth restaurant right here in Walnut Creek, CA. Now, after nearly a century as a Bay Area favorite, Emil’s vision lives on in our high-quality barbecue and fresh baked goods that bring generations together for meals that matter.
True to our roots, the tradition rolls on with families flocking here for everything from quiet dinners to big gatherings. You’ll find us open seven days a week, 7 AM to 9 PM, and we’re ready on all holidays except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Savor What Makes Us Special: The Food
Wood-Fired Favorites and All-Day Classics
You’ll crave our menu the moment you walk in. We smoke everything over a full wood fire—no shortcuts with gas or propane—for that deep, authentic flavor in ribs, tri-tip, and pulled pork. Breakfast runs all day, so grab the Hick’ry Pit Special Scramble with country sausage and pepper cheese, or dive into Berry French Toast topped with fresh strawberries.
From Brunch to BBQ Platters
Brunch calls with bottomless mimosas and Crab Eggs Benny, while lunch and dinner shine with BBQ burgers loaded with bacon and cheddar, or juicy NY steak sandwiches. Sides like mac ‘n’ cheese or roasted veggies round it out, and don’t skip the starters—jumbo wings in garlic parmesan or loaded quesadillas hit just right. Cocktails, craft beers from local spots, and our Happy Hour (Monday–Friday, 3–6 PM) keep things lively.
Bring Hick’ry Pit Home: Catering for Every Occasion
Good food makes gatherings better, and that’s why Hick’ry Pit offers catering that’s every bit as memorable as our restaurant meals. From corporate events and office lunches to birthdays, graduations, and backyard get-togethers, our team delivers the same wood-smoked flavor and hearty comfort food you love.
Whether you’re planning a casual party or a sit-down celebration, our catering service brings reliable quality, generous portions, and the nostalgic taste that’s made us a Walnut Creek favorite since 1958.
When you let us handle the food, you get more time to focus on what matters: enjoying the moment with the people around you.
Share the Sizzle:
Buy a Gift Card Today
Treat your loved ones to Hick’ry Pit’s wood-smoked BBQ and hearty breakfasts! Grab a gift card online or in-store and share the joy of delicious, nostalgic meals.
