D Magazine DALLAS 500: Laura Rea Dickey 

In this insightful [video](https://youtu.be/G9WdZGgUX7s), [Roland Dickey Jr.](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolanddickeyjr/) delves into the invaluable lessons he gained from **Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson**, sharing how the biography’s rich exploration of Musk’s approach to decision-making, problem-solving, and driving innovation resonated with him. 
Roland highlights how Musk’s unique ability to assess situations quickly and make bold decisions is key to achieving optimal output—a trait essential for any entrepreneur striving to push the boundaries of possibility. 
This book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the ambition, risk-taking, and relentless drive that built companies like Tesla and SpaceX. For entrepreneurs, it’s a compelling guide on how to transform vision into reality through tenacity and innovative thinking. Click [here](https://youtu.be/G9WdZGgUX7s) to tune in to see how these insights inspire Roland’s own leadership and drive at Dickey’s!

Barbecue, Books, & Business by Roland Dickey Jr.: Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson

Dickey's Barbecue Pit CEO Laura Rea Dickey talks Supply Chain Crunch

The Dickey Foundation Donates $10k to Beckley Fire Department

NORTH BRANCH, MN (November 21, 2024) – [Dickey's Barbecue Pit](https://www.dickeys.com/) in North Branch is proud to reflect on a busy and rewarding fall season filled with community-centered events, from football tailgates to family fun and heartfelt acts of appreciation. As a new member of the [North Branch ](https://www.dickeys.com/locations/minnesota/north-branch/north-branch)community, Dickey’s has been delighted to participate and make connections while serving up their famous, mouthwatering barbecue.
 
## Tailgating with the Vikings


Dickey’s brought their delicious barbecue experience straight to Minnesota Vikings fans during the tailgating festivities at the Vikings vs. Detroit Lions football game. Football enthusiasts enjoyed samples of Dickey’s smoked meats and creamy mac and cheese while learning about their catering services. They even featured a giant Vikings helmet for fans to snap memorable photos. Franchisee Hannah Davis expressed, “This was our first year bringing Dickey’s to Vikings tailgating, and we couldn’t be happier with the warm reception we received. We plan to make this an annual tradition!”
 
## Trunk or Treat in North Branch


Earlier this fall, Dickey’s was thrilled to participate in North Branch’s Trunk or Treat event, connecting with nearly 900 attendees. “We loved seeing all the costumes and the smiles on kids' faces,” said Davis. “Giving out treats like candy, branded frisbees, can koozies, and more allowed us to meet families, introduce them to our barbecue, and share our catering options. It was great exposure, and we’re excited to do even more next year!”
 
## Feeding and Thanking Our Local Heroes


At Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, supporting local heroes is at the heart of what they do. Hannah and her team recently had the honor of donating a classic buffet-style meal to the North Branch Fire Department during one of their monthly meetings. The 26 fire department members enjoyed a hearty spread that included smoked pulled pork, chopped brisket, mac and cheese, barbecue beans, baked potato casserole, cabbage slaw, and Texas toast. “We are beyond grateful for the dedication and service of our local first responders,” said Davis. “This meal was our way of showing our appreciation for their hard work in keeping our community safe.”
 
## Community Commitment from the Dickey’s Team
![hannah halloween.jpg](https://cms-www-dickeys-com.s3.amazonaws.com/hannah_halloween_4434ebdad4.jpg)



“We believe in creating meaningful connections within the communities we serve,” said [Laura Rea Dickey](https://enterprenuer.org/ceo/meet-laura-rea-dickey-ceo-of-dickeys-barbecue-restaurants-inc/), CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “The North Branch location has gone above and beyond in its first year, making a real impact. We’re excited to see them continue to build on this commitment.”
 
[Roland Dickey, Jr.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weddpg9ZWOI), CEO of Dickey's Capital Group, added, “Giving back is part of who we are at Dickey’s. Seeing the incredible work Hannah and her team are doing in North Branch inspires us all. It’s what sets Dickey’s apart as a family-owned business focused on community and barbecue excellence.”

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in North Branch remains committed to being more than just a barbecue restaurant—it is a dedicated partner and supporter of the community. By sharing their love for smoked meats with sports fans, engaging with families at local events, and expressing gratitude for first responders, Dickey’s aims to make a lasting positive impact. The team looks forward to deepening their roots in North Branch, building connections through service, great food, and community spirit. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is grateful to the community for the warm welcome and is excited to continue creating unforgettable memories together.
 
## About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Founded in 1941 by The Dickey Family, Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. is the world’s largest barbecue concept and continues as a third-generation family-run business. For over 80 years, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has served millions with its signature Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ 
Slow-smoked over hickory wood-burning pits, Dickey’s barbecued meats are paired with a variety of southern sides. Committed to authentic barbecue, Dickey’s never takes shortcuts—because real barbecue can’t be rushed.

With over 866 restaurants across eight concepts in the U.S. and several countries, Dickey’s Barbecue Franchise and Dickey’s Restaurant Brands continues to grow under the leadership of Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group, and Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Inc.
Dickey’s has been recognized on Newsweek’s 2022 "America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains" list, Nation’s Restaurant News 2024 top fast-casual brands for value, and USA Today’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. The brand has also ranked in the Top 20 of Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” for four of the past five years. Additional accolades include Entrepreneur's Top 500 Franchise and Hospitality Technology’s Industry Heroes list. The brand has been featured by **Fox News, Forbes, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal, and People Magazine.**
For more information, visit www.dickeys.com. For information about becoming a franchise partner, visit www.dickeysfranchise.com



Dickey's Barbecue Pit in North Branch Celebrates a Fall Season of Community Engagement

## What is Texas Barbecue
 Texas barbecue is a style of slow-cooked smoked meat that originated in the state of Texas. It consists of cooking beef brisket, pork ribs, and/or sausage over wood or charcoal in an open pit using indirect heat. 

Texas barbecue is usually seasoned with a dry rub consisting of spices such as black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder. This combination of spices results in a complex flavor that has become synonymous with Texas barbecue.

 ## The History Texas barbecue
 Texas BBQ has a long and fascinating history. It dates back to the early 1800s with the first settlers of Texas, who needed a way to preserve their meat as they made their way down South. They adapted the traditional American barbecue techniques of cooking over an open flame, but used native ingredients such as mesquite wood for flavor. 

This style of barbecue eventually became the Texas style we know today. 

In the mid 1800s, German immigrants started what is now known as Central Texas BBQ. This style of cooking was based on beef, slow-cooking it over smoke and using a dry rub to season it. This gave rise to the famous Texas BBQ joints that still exist today. 

In the early 1900s, East Texas BBQ began to gain traction. This style of barbecue used pork and beef that was cooked low and slow with a sweet tomato-based sauce. This sweet, sticky sauce is still incredibly popular today in places like Memphis and the Carolinas. 

Texas BBQ has been shaped by its rich history, combining different traditions and ingredients to form the style we know and love today. 

From the German influence of Central Texas BBQ to East Texas's sweet tomato-based sauce, there is a lot to explore when it comes to Texas barbecue. Whether you prefer your brisket cooked low and slow or hot and quick, one thing is for sure: Texans take their barbecue seriously. 

## The Fires Burn Low and Slow 
 Low and slow is the key to achieving the best barbecue. The low and slow method of cooking means using indirect heat and keeping the temperature of your grill as low as possible, usually between 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. 

This will allow you to slowly cook your food over a longer period of time, allowing it to soak up all those delicious flavors. 

With the low and slow method, the barbecue will be evenly cooked. Since you’re not cooking at a high temperature, it prevents the outside of your food from becoming too charred while still having that nice smoky flavor. 

It also helps to lock in all those juicy flavors, creating some amazing tasting dishes! This makes it ideal for larger cuts of meat like brisket, ribs and pulled pork. 

The low and slow method also helps to keep your meats tender and juicy. Not only does the indirect heat help to create an evenly cooked dish, but it also allows for more time for the fat in the meat to render away which will make your food tenderer and juicier. This makes it the perfect way to cook those tender cuts of meat! 

Low and slow is definitely the way to go when it comes to creating tasty, restaurant-quality barbecue. While it might take a little more time, the result will be worth the wait. So fire up that grill and get ready for some delicious, mouthwatering barbecue! 

## Wood is favored over charcoal or gas 
 Cooking with mesquite wood is the preferred way to make Texas style barbecue because it adds an unmistakable flavor that can't be replicated any other way. The smoky, nutty notes of the wood infuse into the meat for a unique and delicious taste that you just can't get anywhere else. 

There's nothing quite like biting into a juicy, mesquite-smoked brisket or pork shoulder. Not to mention that the scent of a mesquite fire wafting through the air is one of the most iconic aromas in Texas BBQ culture! 

Plus, cooking with mesquite offers some practical advantages over charcoal and gas. The wood burns for a longer time than charcoal and offers more consistent heat than gas. 

So, if you're looking for that slow-smoked flavor and tender, juicy meat, mesquite is definitely the way to go! 
And with its unique flavor profile, texas style barbecue just isn't the same without a mesquite fire. It's no wonder why so many pitmasters choose mesquite as their go-to cooking fuel! 

 So, if you're looking to get your BBQ on in Texas style, it's time to put some mesquite wood on the fire! 

## Texas Beef Brisket 
 Texas beef brisket is one of the most beloved BBQ staples in Texas and beyond. Not only is it flavorful, but its unique texture makes it hard to replicate elsewhere! It's made by cooking a large cut of beef over a low heat for several hours until tender and juicy. 

This slow-cooking process helps to break down the tough fibers in the beef, resulting in a succulent and flavorful meal.
When it comes to Texas-style brisket, there's no better way to enjoy it than with traditional sides of light pickles, sweet onions, and warm bread. 

The combination creates a symphony of flavors that can't be replicated anywhere else! Brisket also pairs well with a variety of side dishes, from mac and cheese to coleslaw. 

No matter how you enjoy Texas beef brisket, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether served in sandwiches or as part of a larger meal, the flavor is robust and unforgettable. 

And if you're lucky enough to find yourself in Texas one day, be sure to make it a point to try out some of the state's delicious beef brisket! You won't be sorry.
 
## The Two Types of Brisket 
 Brisket is an incredibly flavorful cut of meat that has become a popular ingredient in all sorts of dishes. It's especially beloved for its bold flavor and the deliciousness it adds to any dish. 

The two main types of brisket are moist and lean, each with their own unique characteristics. 

Moist brisket is the most popular type and has a higher fat content than lean brisket. This makes the meat incredibly tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It's great for slow cooking methods like smoking or braising since the additional fat helps lock in moisture and make the meat even more flavorful. It's perfect for barbecues since you can get that characteristic smoky flavor and still enjoy the tenderness of the meat. 

On the other hand, lean brisket is a great option for dishes that require faster cooking methods since its lower fat content allows it to cook quickly.
It has a more intense beefy flavor than moist brisket, making it perfect for flavorful stews or tacos. It's also a healthier option since it contains less fat, so you can enjoy the bold flavors without worrying about your health. 

Whether you go for moist or lean brisket, both types are sure to add delicious flavor to any dish. So the next time you're looking for some bold and flavorful ingredients, don't forget about these two types of brisket. They're sure to make your meal even more delicious! 

## Sausage is Historically Important 
 When it comes to the history of sausage in Texas barbecue, it's a flavor that has been around for centuries. Sausage has been a part of the region's culinary landscape since Spanish settlers first arrived in the 1700s, introducing chorizo and other sausages to the area. Soon enough, this delicious meat had become an integral part of Texas barbecue. 

In the 1800s, German immigrants brought their own sausages to Texas and began producing them in the state. By the 1900s, sausage had become such a staple of the local cuisine that it was even included in some historical cookbooks from the era. The popularity of sausage only increased as more new flavors and varieties of sausage were introduced to the region. 

Today, sausage remains an integral part of Texas barbecue, its flavors are incredibly diverse, ranging from traditional kielbasa sausages to zingy jalapeno and cheddar stuffed sausage and everything in between. It's no wonder why it's been such a popular part of regional cuisine for so many years – sausage is simply delicious! 

## BBQ Pork Ribs 
 BBQ ribs are an essential part of Texas barbecue. They have been a staple of the Lone Star State’s barbecue culture for generations, and with good reason! 
For starters, the flavor combination of slow-smoked pork ribs and savory, smoky spices is truly hard to beat. Whether you’re piling them high on your plate or savoring them one-by-one, juicy BBQ ribs are a must for any Texas barbecue meal. 

The secret to making delicious BBQ ribs lies in the combination of spices and techniques used in the cooking process. 

In Texas, we’re lucky to have access to some of the tastiest marinades and flavorful rubs around. From classic mesquite flavors to spicy chipotle-based recipes, there’s something to please everyone’s palate when it comes to BBQ ribs. 

And then of course, there’s the slow-smoking process that gives these succulent cuts their signature flavor and texture. 

## 4 Styles of Texas Barbecue 

### Central Texas Style Barbecue 
 Central Texas Barbecue is known for its unique style and smoky flavor. The meat, usually beef brisket, pork ribs or sausage, is cooked over mesquite wood which gives it a distinct smokey taste and is typically served with no sauce as the flavor of the meat speaks for itself. 

It is traditionally served with white bread and pickles, but can also come with potato salad or coleslaw. Central Texas Barbecue is often referred to as "Texas Style Barbecue" because of its distinctive blend of seasonings and spices. 

### East Texas Style Barbecue 
 East Texas Barbecue has a distinct flavor and style of its own. It generally includes beef briskets, pork ribs, or sausages that are slow cooked over oak wood for several hours. 

Unlike Central Texas Barbecue which is served with no sauce. East Texas Barbecue is usually served with a thick tomato-based sauce. The meat is also often served with sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, or beans. 

East Texas Barbecue is favoured for its sweet and smoky taste that is both tangy and spicy. It has become a popular style of barbecue throughout the United States. 

### West Texas Style Barbecue 
 West Texas barbecue is known for its unique style and flavors. Its distinct flavor profile comes from the use of mesquite wood to smoke the meat, giving it a smoky taste that complements the other ingredients. 

It also features a variety of regional spices and sauces, such as pico de gallo, jalapeno peppers, cilantro, and garlic. The meat is usually cooked over an open flame or in a smoker, allowing the flavors to permeate the meat thoroughly. 

There’s also a focus on low-and-slow cooking that allows the fat to render down and give the dish its characteristic tenderness. 

### South Texas Style Barbecue 
 South Texas style barbecue is a style of slow smoked meats that is influenced by Mexican and German flavors. This type of barbecue typically features beef, pork, or chicken cooked over mesquite charcoal for hours until it is falling-apart tender. 

Sauces and rubs used in South Texas-style barbecue generally include chiles, garlic, cumin, oregano, and other spices. The dish is often served with tortillas, beans, rice, and salsa to create a complete meal. 

## White bread, Onions and Pickles are Free 
 When it comes to Texas Barbecue, you can always count on a few yummy sides. Bread, onions and pickles are essential staples that come on the side with nearly every barbecue plate in the Lone Star State! 

The hearty bread helps soak up all of those flavorful juices from the meat while crunchy onions add texture. 

And of course, the pickles bring a classic tartness that perfectly balances out all other components. With these three items on your plate, you can rest assured that your barbecue experience will be complete! 

### Other Texas BBQ Traditions 
 Texas Barbecue isn't just about the food - it's also about the experience. In many parts of Texas, barbecue restaurants are family-run and have been in operation for generations, so you can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere coupled with traditional recipes that have been passed down through the years. 

Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or planning an all-day barbecue excursion with friends, there's no denying that Texas Barbecue is best enjoyed with other people! 

## What Are Common Texas Barbecue Side Dishes? 
 Texas barbecue sides often include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, green beans, and potato casserole. Additional items such as pickles, chips or french fries are also common. 

Depending on the style of barbecue, macaroni and cheese may be replaced by pinto beans or cream corn. 

Other popular sides include green salad, corn on the cob, hushpuppies and sliced white bread. Popular desserts at Texas barbecues include banana pudding, peach cobbler and pecan pie. 

## Where to get the Original Texas Barbecue 
 If you’re looking for the same great taste that has made Central Texas Barbecue a favorite for generations, then make a visit to Dickey’s Barbecue Pit.
Dickey's Barbecue is one of the oldest and most beloved barbecue chains in existence. 

Founded in 1941, Dickey’s has been a Texas favorite for more than three-quarters of a century. Dickey’s Barbecue has been serving up slow-smoked pit barbecue throughout the country since its founding, with more than 500 locations in 43 states. 
Place an order online to see what Texas Barbecue Restaurants are all about. 
 
 To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/dickeys). Download the [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app) from the [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp).

Texas style barbecue? Everything you need to know.

### Valentines Day 'Cue For Two
Looking for the perfect meal for that special person this Valentine’s Day? A [date with Dickey’s](https://www.dickeys.com/press/press-releases/dickey-s-barbecue-pit-spreads-love-with-valentine-s-day-deals) is just what you need to make this holiday one to remember. Love is in the air and this year it smells like smokey goodness of Legit. Texas. BarbecueTM.

 This Valentine’s Day, the world’s largest [barbecue franchise](https://franchise.dickeys.com/smokin-franchise-brand/) is offering one-day-only deals for everyone when you [order online](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday). Single and not ready to mingle? Dickey’s has you covered with a one meat, one side, and one Big Yellow Cup meal for just $9.99. For the perfect date night, couples can kick up the romance with Two, Two-Meat Plates for just $29! You can choose from brisket, pulled pork, chicken, kielbasa sausage or ribs. Dickey’s has the quality, slow-smoked meats and wholesome sides that are sure to stoke your fire for a romantic Valentine’s celebration.
 
 You can’t call this date finished without satisfying your sweet tooth. Make sure to order a [Blondie Brownie](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday) or [Chocolate Chunk Cookie](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday) for the perfect sweet ending for your sweetie. If you’re looking to avoid Valentine’s Day crowds, don’t get off that couch. Instead, grab your phone, download our app, and let Dickey’s deliver when you want it, where you want it. Spend this Valentine’s Day in the comfort of your own home by ordering online, and use the extra time to make a macaroni necklace. Or better yet, don’t forget to order Dickey’s famous Mac & Cheese!
 
 Everyone knows that the key to anyone’s heart is through their stomach and Dickey’s is the locksmith of love. Available only at bbqathome.com, order the Texas Two Step giftbox filled with seasonings, sauces, and a cookbook with recipes from around the world. Happy Valentine’s Day from the barbecue restaurant that loves you, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit. 

 To learn more, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/dickeys). Download the [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app) from the [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp).

THE ‘CUE FOR TWO

##'Cue Your Gameday With Dickey's Catering Services

### From party packs and platters to delivery buffets, we have just the 'cue for you

 You’ve waited all year for the biggest Game Day of the season, but more importantly, all the great food that goes along with it. [Dickey’s Barbecue Pit](https://www.dickeys.com/) and our [catering experts](https://www.dickeys.com/catering/services) have everything you need from slow smoked meats, southern style sides, and more to make sure you and your guests are happy and satisfied, no matter who wins.

 Whether you’re hosting for a few or the whole crew, we’ve got your Big Game watch party covered. Football just isn’t football without food, family, and just a little bit of trash talking. From [Party Packs](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday) to [Delivery Buffets](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday), why not rile up the rivalries between Team Brisket or Team Ribs?

 Party Packs are a great way to hand off your barbecue favorites. Keep it classic with the Brisket & Pulled Pork Party Pack. Do you prefer handhelds? Say no more. Check out our Barbecue Sandwich Party Pack. How about something a little different? Kick things up a level with a Party Platter of Butcher Tacos. Since you can now build your own Big Yellow Box, there’s more Party Pack combinations than there are stars in the Texas sky. Check them all out at [Dickeys.com](https://www.dickeys.com/).

 If you’re having the whole neighborhood over, we can have a full [barbecue buffet](https://www.dickeys.com/quote/everyday) waiting for them in near the end zone. Dickey’s Delivery Buffet can feed as many people as you can invite — just let us know how many (and then add a few more). From your favorite slow smoked meats, classic barbecue sides, desserts, and beverages, let Dickey’s Barbecue Pit make your Big Game even the most epic watch party of the year. No matter where the event is, no matter what the size, we have just the ’cue for you!

 To learn more about Dickey’s, follow Dickey’s Barbecue Pit on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/dickeysbarbecuepit/) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/dickeys). Download the [Dickey’s app](https://www.dickeys.com/promos/check-the-app) from the [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dickeys-barbecue-pit/id1288151925) or [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.olodickeysapp).

Dickey's Barbecue Pit Gameday Catering

John Huml


 TX-648


 Tyler, TX


 Real Talk with Real Owners – Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Tyler, TX


  <img src="https://rrbi-dbri-boss-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/public/content/post_files/john_huml_brand_champion_tyler%2Ctx-1439561845265.jpg" alt="John Huml Brand Champion Tyler" style="width: 50%;">


 “I have a history of barbecue, it’s always been a passion of mine,” John Huml says of his background. From humble beginnings, John built his career
from the ground up. He started as a dishwasher and bus boy, then worked his way up to management in the restaurant industry. Eventually, he made the move to corporate America, where he worked in the
mortgage business for about a decade.


  


 After the mortgage industry suffered to due to the economic decline, John decided he was done being a number and was ready to be his own boss. As luck would have it, he got a call from an old
 friend from the barbecue days. Serendipity turned into reality, and in January 2013, John and his wife Nikki opened their own Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in her hometown of Tyler, in East Texas. The
 combined experience in the restaurant and financial industries turned out to be the perfect combination for starting and owning a business.


  


 John is grateful for the training and support that Dickey’s offers its franchise owners, from the Barbecue University program and “on the ground” grand opening support to community marketing, IT
 assistance and more. He has used these tools in connecting with his community through charity events, including the Boys and Girls Clubs and the local police and fire departments.


  


 “My favorite part is the people. I get to visit with our regulars daily and I personally attend every catering event we book,” John says. “I’m very dedicated and hands-on when it comes to community
 involvement. I want us to be the very best that we can be.”

Real Talk with Real Owners: John Huml of Tyler, TX

MORE ARTICLES