Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is a well-established name in the barbecue restaurant industry, tracing its roots back to 1941 when Travis Dickey Sr. opened the first location in Dallas, Texas. Today, it stands as a global franchise with 304 locations across the United States and several international markets as of June 2025. Known for its authentic Texas-style barbecue, Dickey's slow-smokes its meats over hickory wood and serves them with classic Southern sides, a combination that has garnered a loyal customer base and recognition from respected publications like Newsweek and Nation’s Restaurant News.

The company remains a family-run business, now in its third generation, with Roland Dickey Jr. leading Dickey’s Capital Group and Laura Rea Dickey at the helm of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. The brand's significant growth began in the 2010s, particularly after it embraced franchising, and by 2012, it was recognized as the fastest-growing restaurant chain in the U.S. Over the past five years, Dickey’s has expanded its portfolio to include eight different restaurant concepts, such as Wing Boss and Big Deal Burger, allowing it to reach a broader audience and adapt to varying consumer tastes.

Despite facing industry challenges and closing nearly 100 underperforming locations in the last fiscal year, Dickey’s has focused on refining its operations and optimizing its market presence. The company has adopted new store models that feature smaller footprints, prioritize digital-first ordering, and offer flexible catering options. This strategic approach helps Dickey’s stay aligned with changing consumer preferences.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Dickey’s continues to emphasize quality, hospitality, and community connection. These values have been central to its steady expansion and enduring reputation. For commercial real estate professionals, Dickey’s represents a credible and adaptable tenant, offering a proven franchise model and a history of operational resilience. The brand is actively looking to grow in both new and existing markets, focusing on areas like Texas, California, Florida, and internationally in the Middle East and Asia, making it an appealing option for markets seeking established and reliable brands.