

Eric Pippert, Chef, Founder & Proprietor
With over a decade of professional experience, Chef Pippert has delivered dishes from from the mountains of North Carolina to the neon of Nashville. Asheville's Corner Kitchen served as the backdrop for the Alexandria, VA native's earliest years in the industry, where he learned the important nuances of cooking eggs perfectly. On days off, he enjoyed breakfast at the counter and always ordered the same dish - biscuits and gravy with an over-easy egg.
A relationship carried the friendly line cook to Tennessee, where he found opportunity in the small, but noteworthy, kitchen community of Chattanooga. Working as Chef de Cuisine, and eventually Executive Chef, under James Beard Nominated Chef Daniel Lindley, Pippert contributed to Chattanooga concepts Alleia and St. John's Restaurant, as well as Nashville's celebrated 5th & Taylor American Restaurant.
For years, the self professed pork connoisseur felt called to open his own concept, converging the region's varying BBQ styles under one roof. Pippert's respect for the time and technique, paired with the usage of every part of the pig, informs the flavors of Creekside. His approach is simple - quality ingredients, delicious dishes and friendly service. Like everything he touches, Creekside is intentional, flavorful and bustling with good energy. When Chef Pippert isn't slaying the smoker and speaking with his guests, he can be found outdoors and hanging with his daughter, Carter Lynn.
The Concept
Creekside BBQ at Oak Mountain is centered around great BBQ, soulful music and good vibes. Offering a patchwork of the region's varying takes on smoked meats - Alabama style chicken, North Carolina pork, Memphis kissed ribs - along with Chef inspired sides, there is something for everyone.
Stationed in a former Waffle House, nestled above Bishop Creek, the renovations include custom accommodations for a Texas-made Oyler 700 smoker slated to serve the restaurant and future catering operations. A solid brick building with 40 interior seats also boasts the addition of a covered patio with 48 seats overlooking the creek.
Intended to serve the Pelham community and visitors of the beautiful, 9,940-acre state park, the locally owned and operated eatery celebrates the South and all its' bounty. Whether you are about to soak up the sounds at Oak Mountain Amphitheater, mountain biking or hiking through the state park, Creekside BBQ at Oak Mountain is the perfect pit stop for authentic, fall off the bone BBQ. Pull up a chair...
