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Hickory Lane American Bistro Reviews List
Hickory Lane American Bistro
Hickory Lane American Bistro features cuisine founded in exceptional, fresh and local ingredients prepared under expert technique. Chef Trevor Martin and his team practice classic techniques and modern food science in the creation of simple yet delicious and beautiful food. Located in the Art Museum / Fairmount neighborhood of Philadelphia, Hickory Lane offers brunch and dinner in a elegantly rustic dining room. Featuring an eight seat copper bar that sets focus on simplicity. The bar showcases old world and new world selections of beers and wines while the cocktail and drink options are made from classic recipes with new twists and spirits. Hickory Lane is ideal for a quick bite, leisurely meal or exceptional fare. We are located across from the historic Eastern State Penitentiary on the corner of Fairmount and Corinthian Ave. Feel free to stop by or make a reservation, either way you will remember your first visit and that is what makes you will want to come back.
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69 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Rating Breakdown 69 reviews
5 stars
(12)
4 stars
(40)
3 stars
(14)
2 stars
(3)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
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Diners classify this restaurant as:
- neighborhood gem(48)
- fit for foodies(24)
- great for brunch(19)
- great for outdoor dining(10)
- kid-friendly(7)
- great for lunch(6)
Hickory Lane American Bistro Reviews List
Review 1 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food was amazing.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Went for a Mother's Day brunch and brought along a 16 month old. The hostess was super friendly and accomodating. The highlight was definitely the food though. I had the Fairmont breakfast and my wife got the burger. One of the best burgers i have ever tasted. The Fairmont breakfast was also delicious and filling. While it would be nice if it were a BYOB, the cocktail list is one of the best i have ever seen. I had the vanilla mint rum tea."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 2 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Disappointed
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were very disappointed with our visit after hearing and reading so many good things.. We were seated near the bar which really seems to take over the restaurant. We ordered the mushroom bruschetta which was bland and lukewarm. The burger which everyone raves about was tasteless and fries were cold and soggy. The wine list is so very limited and so very expensive compared to other restaurants. We were charged a split fee for sharing the burger, which is fine, but it would be nice to know that beforehand and then we were told we could have brought a bottle of wine and paid a $15 corkage fee. This would have been much more preferable to what we spent. on the wine. The acoustics are very bad and we could hardly hear each other talk."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 3 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great seasonal menu
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had only been once before and had the burger, which was amazing. This time went with friends. We were all impressed with the seasonal menu. Both soups - gazpacho and white asparagus, were delicious and well seasoned. The bouillabaisse was perfectly prepared, especially the sea bass (order it medium). Salmon was cooked to perfection. Filet was okay, ordered it medium based on medium rare description having a cold center and it arrived medium well. Wine list was limited but good selection. Our server was very knowledgeable and friendly. We will return."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 4 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
good casual dinner place
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The hostess and waitress were very nice and friendly -- forgot to put bacon on my burger as requested, but otherwise the food was good. Didn't love the prominence of the bar in the dining room, but would go back for a casual dinner or to sit outside on a nice day."
Dined on 04/24/2013
2012
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Review 5 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
We were underwhelmed by everything.
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were underwhelmed by everything. The Bloody Mary had two olive garnishes that still had pits. Each of the side salads had ends of lettuce and browned parts. They were busy but we were sitting right next to the bar and I sat with an empty drink for quite some time. The food tasted good."
Dined on 04/21/2013
2009
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Review 6 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great neighborhood gem. The
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great neighborhood gem. The meal was very enjoyable, although the tables are way too close to each other. I know they put in the new bar and had to make adjustments, but we felt cramped."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2006
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A great neighborhood place,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"A great neighborhood place, filled with families on a Sunday. The noise level is still a problem. The food was great; the server very friendly. I did make a note in my reservation on line that we had a birthday in the group, but nothing was done to acknowledge that. At the next table, a cupcake with a candle was brought to the person who was celebrating a birthday. At that point, I felt a bit neglected, but did not want to say anything. It was my husband's birthday.I did not want to upset him by having to say something either to the waiter or manager. I thought that putting it in the notes on the reservation was enough."
Dined on 04/14/2013
2007
Special Features: great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Everything with the meal was
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everything with the meal was great; the food, the service, etc. All was well until about 5 minutes after paying the waitress came over and kicked us out so someone else could take the table. I understand its their business to make money, it just was a bit rude, especially since the restaurant didn't seem that crowded and there was no line. It just put a bitter end to a very sweet meal.
If going for brunch, get the stuffed French toast if thy have it. You're welcome :)"
Dined on 04/14/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We had native Manhattan people
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had native Manhattan people with us for brunch, and they were duly impressed with brunch. We did think that the chocolate chip cookie was not rich enough, but we did have a delicious brunch and enjoyed the friendly wait staff."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very good!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Burger was delicious, as was Mac and cheese. Sunlight coming in through windows at sundown can be a little much, and drawing curtains can obstruct view for other patrons. Rum iced tea a little too sweet for my wife, but Solitary Refinement a nice take on an Old Fashioned."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fairmount Ave. Gem
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Whenever we have guests from out of town our first consideration is Hickory Lane. We live in the Fairmount Section and we feel this restaurant is a perfect example of the vibe of this up and coming neighborhood!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 12 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
My husband and I had a relaxing
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My husband and I had a relaxing dinner at this comfortable Fairmount restaurant. It is great for dining alfresco; even if you are indoors, the large windows that open out give the impression that you are outdoors. The fried calamari appetizer was tender and light. The beet salad with blue cheese was good; would have preferred the beets sliced into somewhat larger pieces. The gnocchi was delicate and light with a flavorful sauce. For dessert we opted for the very tasty vanilla Tahitian gelato. We enjoyed the inventive cocktails, along with some very good wines. Espresso and Cuban coffee topped off our meal. The staff were attentive and professional. Overall, a delightful way to spend Friday evening at one of our favorite neighborhood places."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2008
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 13 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The best $15 burger in the
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The best $15 burger in the country!! Seriously, I know that is quite a tab for a burger and fries but it is worth it. Used to be a byob but now has a $15 corkage fee. That is fair. I just wish they had more wines on the wine list. You really HAVE to bring your own.I will return."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 14 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The brussel sprouts are fantastic!!"
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Review 15 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Enjoyed a Saturday brunch
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Enjoyed a Saturday brunch after a visit to Art Museum. Menu had lots of good choices and I thoroughly enjoyed the burger I chose. Add a delicious glass of wine and overall was happy to have tried this restaurant and will definitely go again."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 16 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great mussels and burgers..have
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great mussels and burgers..have been here 5-6 times since it has opened and always had a good experience"
Dined on 03/02/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 17 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
This was our first visit.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was our first visit. The food was quite good. Mussels were outstanding. Try the orange dahlia cocktail Delish. Service was a bit spotty but we definitely will go back"
Dined on 02/23/2013
2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 18 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
My girlfriend and I went for
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My girlfriend and I went for a Saturday brunch and enjoyed a unique menu. The stuffed french toast, as it turns out, was really great. It's on a corner with available street parking that we didn't have too much trouble securing (and for free, no less!)"
Dined on 02/16/2013
2012
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 19 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Cold bread- ok food without
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Cold bread- ok food without much flavor"
Dined on 02/20/2013
2006
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Review 20 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The food was ok but the hamburger
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was ok but the hamburger completely over rated. I expected more from this chef who has been at the finest restaurants in the city as have I. There was nothing exceptional. A bread basket or something unique would set the brunch apart from any other. Still enjoyable and excellent french toast ( the only thing that showed the talent of the chef)"
Dined on 02/17/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 21 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A small and cozy restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"A small and cozy restaurant with a classy atmosphere, but not pretentious. The smaller accommodations allow the wait staff to be very attentive to your needs. Nice selection of local beers."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 22 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We have been going to Hickory
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We have been going to Hickory Lane since it first opened and have always found the food and service to be excellent. We were not aware that there was a prix fixe menu but the choices were great."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 23 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious salmon!! Very good
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Delicious salmon!! Very good menu"
Dined on 02/16/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 24 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The tomato soup was tasteless
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The tomato soup was tasteless and the server offered salt and pepper,not an exchange. The salmon was ok but the puree was cold. The food has gone down hill since our last visit. Too bad for Fairmount and the great reviews it has gotten in the past."
Dined on 02/07/2013
2006
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 25 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Absolutely love Hickory Lane.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Absolutely love Hickory Lane. The food was phenomenal. My French toast with a layer of bananas foster between the insanely thick yet fluffy slices was so good I could hardly stand it! Servers made us feel special. Wish I lived in this neighborhood rather than having to drive 2 hours to get there."
Dined on 02/02/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 26 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Staff was very accommodating
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Staff was very accommodating to our group of 8 for brunch. Great food/ambiance. Small place right across from Eastern State Penn."
Dined on 01/27/2013
2008
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem, scenic view
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Review 27 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Give your review a title (optional)
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"There were only (3)tables with patrons on this very cold and rainy evening.
My husband ordered a medium hamburger that was served rare. We hailed down the waitress, she sent the hamburger back to be cooked more,
The second time, the hamburger returned medium rare, not medium.
My husband ordered a medium hamburger that was served rare. We hailed down the waitress, she sent the hamburger back to be cooked more,
The second time, the hamburger returned medium rare, not medium.
The waitress never asked if the hamburger was ever cooked to his liking. we felt ignored in an empty restaurant."
Dined on 01/28/2013
2013
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Review 28 for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We had been visiting my niece
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had been visiting my niece who lives in the 'hood. And she steered us there. We'd been heading elsewhere in the area.
We were on the early side (5pm); so, no one else was there. And the place hadn't had a chance to warm up - literally and figuratively. Very smooth, good martini. The mussels I ate were great - one of the best preparations I've eaten in Phila. Same with the scallops my wife had. But she found the salad somewhat ordinary and over priced for the portion. The chicken salad I ate would have been better appreciated in warmer weather - but that reflects a poor choice on my part.
Service was warm and cheerful. The staff we encountered were all friendly, good folks!"
Dined on 01/23/2013
2008
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Hickory Lane American Bistro
Based on the average of (41) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
6 out of 6 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic