Bestie Business Card
Famous Pork Ribs and Award winning Breakfast. Family BBQ Hickory Pit is a local favorite.
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DirectionsAbout Livermore, California, USA
MoreThe city’s charm is reflected in its historic downtown area, the picturesque Livermore Valley Wine Country, and outdoor spaces like Altamont Creek Regional Park. Key events such as the Livermore Wine Country Festival and Downtown Days celebrate its unique character. The economic landscape is significantly shaped by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), a major employer alongside industries like technology, healthcare, and viticulture. Transportation links to nearby highways and airports facilitate easy access to the San Francisco Bay Area.
Livermore offers extensive community resources including top-rated schools, libraries, and medical facilities. Public safety is emphasized with lower crime rates compared to national averages, supported by local crime prevention initiatives. The Mediterranean climate features warm summers and mild winters, complementing the city’s natural oak woodlands and grasslands. Local amenities cater to diverse tastes with a range of dining options, shopping centers, and recreational activities like hiking and wine tasting.
Livermore’s identity is defined by its combination of scientific innovation and agricultural heritage, exemplified by LLNL's contributions and the historic winemaking legacy. The city provides a lifestyle marked by community spirit, natural beauty, and a commitment to progress.
Nominated for BestAround
Family BBQ Hickory Pit, with its longstanding presence in Livermore, California, has earned itself a notable spot among food enthusiasts vying for the "BestAround" title. The restaurant's evolution from Emil Villa's original Hick'ry Pit to its current iteration showcases a commitment to preserving traditional BBQ while embracing modern sensibilities. This balance is evident in their menu offerings, which cater to both classic BBQ aficionados and those seeking contemporary twists on familiar dishes.
The restaurant's enduring appeal lies in its exceptional quality, particularly the robust flavors and tenderness consistently praised by diners for its prime meats. Service, characterized by friendliness and attentiveness, further cements its reputation as a customer-friendly establishment. The ambiance, described as both classic and welcoming, adds to the overall dining experience, making it a go-to spot for families and groups alike.
While minor issues like occasional wait times and cleanliness concerns have been noted, they appear to be relatively infrequent and don't overshadow the restaurant's core strengths. The value proposition - delicious food at reasonable prices with a cozy atmosphere - resonates strongly with customers. Family BBQ Hickory Pit seems poised for continued success, retaining its loyal customer base while adapting to modern expectations and expanding its reach. It's likely this blend of tradition, quality, and community focus will contribute to its potential nomination for "BestAround."
About Family BBQ Hickory Pit
Family BBQ Hickory Pit, originally established as Emil Villa’s Hick’ry Pit, has evolved into a beloved barbecue restaurant in Livermore, California, under the leadership of Emil Villas. Situated at 1840 Portola Ave, the restaurant has been a cornerstone of the community for decades, offering a nostalgic yet modern take on traditional BBQ. The menu features a range of classic dishes, including Onion Rings, Zucchini Rounds, Mozzarella Sticks, and garlic fries, all priced at $6.99, while premium options like Chicken Wings (5) and a selection of craft beers and wines cater to a variety of tastes and occasions.
The restaurant operates from 4 PM to 5:30 PM every day, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays until 8:30 PM, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Despite its growing popularity, Family BBQ Hickory Pit has not lost sight of its roots and community values. The team, led by Emil Villas, comprises a dedicated group of staff members who have been with the restaurant for over three decades, including Inocencio, who transformed the humble dishwasher into the owner in 2023. This commitment to family and community is evident in the welcoming atmosphere and the loyalty of its patrons.
In early 2025, the restaurant relocated to a new location on the same street, 3064 Pacific Avenue, in an effort to better serve the growing customer base while addressing financial constraints that limited expansion possibilities. The move marks a significant milestone for the establishment, which has maintained its core values and culinary excellence despite challenges such as rising costs and staff shortages. The new space will provide ample room for growth and enhanced customer experiences, but the restaurant’s dedication to family and community remains unwavering. Family BBQ Hickory Pit continues to be a cherished institution in Livermore, offering a taste of home-cooked BBQ with a touch of modern sophistication.
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What Customers Say
506
Official Google Reviews
Customers consistently highlight the exceptional quality of the meat at Family BBQ Hickory Pit, with many praising the flavors and tenderness of their burgers, ribs, and steaks. Service is another recurring theme, with several accounts noting friendly, attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. The ambiance, described as classic diner style or cozy and relaxing, contributes positively to the dining experience. Portions are frequently mentioned as generous, making it a satisfying meal for families or groups.
While some reviews touch on minor issues like wait times or occasional cleanliness concerns (particularly noted in the updated review), these are relatively infrequent and seem to be outweighed by the overall positive feedback. The restaurant's value proposition - delicious food at reasonable prices with a welcoming atmosphere - appears to resonate strongly with customers.
The consistency of praise for the burgers, especially the baby back ribs which received particularly high marks, suggests a reliable menu item that consistently meets expectations. The new location seems to retain the core strengths of the original, though some newer customers mention wanting more special events or a wider variety of menu options. Overall, Family BBQ Hickory Pit is perceived as a beloved local institution offering a satisfying and enjoyable family dining experience.