Legacy
1992 was the year 14 families commissioned Ron Foster Sr to smoke their Thanksgiving turkey with no previous advertising. Over the next few years demand for his other smoked meats grew until people began to ask about catering weddings. Mary Foster then brought things full circle with her homemade sides that perfectly married the smoked meats. After increased sales and demand, in 1996, Hick’ry Stick was officially birthed as a State of Illinois catering business. In 1998 the catering company expanded to selling product at festivals and events like Taste of Peoria, Soul Fest, Oktoberfest, BBQ Throwdown, Tower Park Music Fest, Moss Avenue Sale, Spoon River Drive, Tailgates and Tallboys, Steamboat Days, and many others. In addition we catered for foreign dignitaries, Grammy winning artists, Fortune 500 companies, and over 100 weddings. In 2010 Hick’ry Stick opened a cafe location in Peoria and even won a Peoria Good Neighbor award. In 2011 a second location was opened in Elmwood, Illinois with a full restaurant, bake shop, coffee bar, and banquet facility. In 2014 Ron Sr’s youngest son Ryan took over and went back to the roots of catering and mobile vendor events after the closing of the brick and mortars. In 2021 Ron Foster Sr went to be with the Lord but his legacy continues to satisfy the palates of many. From hobby to legacy, welcome to the experience.
Next Generation
Chef Ryan Foster
Ryan Foster has smoke in his blood. Growing up in the family catering business he learned the craft of seasoning and smoking meats alongside his father and grandfather for the perfect flavor profile. From age seven on, he was in the catering kitchen with his mom learning how to prepare good quality soul food that please the masses. After a traditional college, Ryan decided to get more professional training and attended culinary arts school. Upon graduation, Ryan was running a full-service restaurant and continuing the family business tradition of catering and selling at large events from a mobile kitchen. In his tenure, Ryan has catered for foreign dignitaries, Grammy winning artists, Fortune 500 companies, and over 100 weddings. His award-winning smoked meats are known among bbq lovers in the Peoria area. While catering is his bread and butter, Ryan enjoys the creative license given with more intimate events where he can add a twist to traditional menu items.
