Located in the heart of Ringgold, Virginia, The Tickles Table is a culinary gem that brings authentic, comforting flavors to the table with Southern-inspired fare that feels like a warm, home-cooked meal. Specializing in expertly smoked brisket and hearty, flavor-packed dishes, this restaurant has earned a devoted following from locals and travelers alike who crave genuine soul food with a modern twist.
As soon as you step inside The Tickles Table, you’re welcomed by a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels effortlessly genuine—like dining at a good friend’s home. The friendly hospitality is instantly felt, reflected in attentive service and even the chance to meet Tickle himself, the charismatic pitmaster who infuses each dish with passion and care. This personal touch elevates the entire dining experience, making every visit memorable.
The menu is centered around robust, slow-cooked meats and fresh, house-made sides that celebrate Southern comfort food at its finest. Their signature Tickles Brisket Burger is a must-try: a generous portion of fresh, seasoned brisket ground to juicy perfection, nestled in a sesame seed bun that crisply complements that smoky richness. It’s no surprise that many customers have driven hours just to experience this burger's unforgettable depth of flavor. For a lighter yet equally satisfying option, the Large Vegetable Plate offers a thoughtfully curated selection of five house-made sides, paired with a freshly baked yeast roll and the restaurant’s unique honey cinnamon butter—a delightful contrast of savory and sweet that lingers on the palate.
Burger lovers will appreciate the variety offered in the “Build Your Burger and Dogs” section featuring choices like the juicy Half Pound Hamburger and the well-seasoned Jumbo Turkey Burger, each thoughtfully layered with fresh, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, onions, and pickles, rounded out with Tickles’ signature sauces. Salads also shine here, particularly the Grilled Chicken Salad which balances smokiness with fresh, vibrant veggies, making it a tasty yet wholesome option.
What truly elevates The Tickles Table is the harmony between flavors and the heartfelt approach to hospitality. Customers consistently rave about the genuine kindness of the staff—Gabby and Heaven, two standout servers, ensure glasses are always filled and smiles never fade. The atmosphere buzzes gently with a sense of community, whether it’s a birthday dinner or a casual family outing. Many patrons describe the experience as more than just a meal, but a connection to a place where food is crafted with love and tradition, from the perfectly slow-smoked chili beans with cornbread to the indulgent slices of pie that serve as the perfect finisher.
Long drives to savor The Tickles Table’s signature dishes are a testament to the restaurant’s special place in its guests’ hearts. This is not just a stop for food—it’s a fulfilling journey of taste and warmth that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and leave feeling deeply satisfied. If you find yourself near 3938 S Boston Hwy in Ringgold, The Tickles Table promises a dining experience that’s rich in flavor, genuine in spirit, and unforgettable in every way.
...a place that feels like a home cooked meal with love that's how I would describe it... amazing food & service... totally worth the 11hr trip to get that brisket burger & brisket steak...even Tickle was there to greet us...what a great place & definitely will be back when we make the next trip
Rather, a unique experience. Fun to see and the food is good. It was a nice birthday dinner and good to see Tickle and his wife as well. Did not talk to them they were busy talking at the counter and did not want to disturb them. Finally got to put a taste with Tickle's BBQ and he has done well with the smoke and flavor. It is only about 1.5 hours from Winston Salem NC.
We came in on April 3 and 4th. Our waitress on Thursday was Gabby and Friday Heaven. Both were excellent. Kept glasses full and very nice. The 1st day we had BBQ and country style steak. My husband and I sampled each others and it iwas excellent. On Friday we were back when it opened and ordered the brisket sub and a brisket burger. OMG out of this world. Then came the highlight. Tickle himself came and talked to us. It made my day. We had to be back in NC for a chemo treatment and after we talked to him and got pictures he prayed with us. We could not ask for a better time. Very impressed with the whole experience. He was a really nice person. Thank you.
The best experience and atmosphere. Our waiter was SO kind. Meeting Tickle was definitely a highlight; the most down to earth person. The cheesesteak was enormous and the carrot cake was second to none. Loved Carol’s potato!! A must visit!!
Drove 6 hours just to eat here and it did not disappoint! Tickles brisket burger was delicious and the regular cheeseburger was amazing! If it wasn't so far I'd eat here regularly! Tickle was super nice and friendly! Great place!! That pie was amazing! I forgot the rest at the hotel, so we'll be coming back for more!!
Awesome placed to eat the food is great that doesn't matter what you get the staff is wonderful. If that's not enough don't forget to get ice cream. There is a chance your see some great guys and Tickle and Carol enjoying the wrestling.
We had dinner, and lunch the next day, at The Tickle’s Table and it was ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS! We tried a variety of dishes and everything was consistently mouthwatering. My husband is still raving about the Brisket Cheesesteak Hoagie and the Brisket Burger two weeks after our visit! I had the Pulled Pork Baked Potato with coleslaw for dinner and the Half Pound Black Angus Bacon Burger with fries for lunch and was absolutely stuffed after each meal. The portions are beyond generous! We ordered desserts to take with us, and each one was more divine than the last. While waiting for our meal, owner Steve Tickle took the time to speak to each customer, answered questions about the menu, took pictures, signed autographs and was so kind! The space is decorated with vintage signs, pictures from the show Moonshiners and pictures of The Tickle’s and their family. It gives a family dining room feel, and sets you automatically at ease when you walk in the door. The staff is polite, kind and full of southern grace and manners. Highly recommend a stop (or two!) here anytime you’re in southern Virginia!
We had the brisket burger and stuffed potato. The food was excellent. My only complaint is they take a while to get your food. It took over 45 minutes for us to get our food but it was worth the wait.