For media requests or inquiries, please email Dickey's Barbecue Pit Media Relations Team at: 

Includes a list of locations, fun facts, milestones and other company information about Dickey's Barbecue Pit.

Baker bar with potatoes and all the fixings

Press Contact

Press Kit

Media Inquiries

Hot off the pit! Here’s where you’ll find Dickey’s latest news!

Blog

<img alt="" src="/assets/pictures/Bob%20and%20Barb.jpg"/>
As a retired Air Force Colonel, Bob Rusnak understands success.&nbsp; He and his wife Barb, were looking for their next adventure when they stumbled on to the business opportunity at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit.&nbsp;Today, they are multi-unit operators in the Colorado Springs area on the cusp of opening their third location later this year.&nbsp; That makes three new stores in just three years with impressive sales to back it up.
“We briefly considered retirement and then decided to explore restaurant franchises,” said Bob Rusnak, multi-unit franchise owner for Dickey’s Barbecue Pit. “We looked in to veteran friendly franchises and were impressed by the business model, food quality, and franchise opportunity at Dickey’s Barbecue.”
With increased month to date comp sales of 3.5%, catering at 18% and month to date labor holding steady at 13%, the Rusnaks are seeing impressive brand momentum.
&nbsp;“We find so much satisfaction in growing our business,” said Rusnak.&nbsp; “Part of the passion is servicing the guests and keeping the brand growing. You wouldn’t believe how many times guests ask us if we will open stores in their neighborhood.“
Their passion in growing the Dickey’s brand has been contagious.&nbsp; They are regular guests on KZNT 1460 Newstalk with Mike Boyle sharing tips on the art of great barbecue with Saturday morning fans.
In addition, they participate in the Pike’s Peak Summer Reading Program by providing “Be my Guest” cards to local children.&nbsp;Last year they gave away over 15,000 cards to elementary students who worked hard to reach their reading goals. They also support local sports programs like Air Force Academy Football games and Mixed Marshall Arts fights in their area.
“The best piece of advice I can give any new franchise owner is to be in your restaurant every day and get to know your guests,” said Rusnak. “I think we are successful because we truly care about our guests and our business -- It’s also so important to meet the community and give back.”

Brand Champions: Bob & Barb Rusnak

At Dickey’s we love helping our local communities! That’s why our new foundation, Barbecue, Boots &amp; Badges, is so exciting.&nbsp; Barbecue, Boots &amp; Badges is a foundation committed to leaving a footprint on the communities we serve by providing funding and resources to law enforcement, firefighters and their families. The new charity slogan signifies what we hope to accomplish by, “Serving Those Who Serve Us.”<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/Chips-Promo.jpg"/>
 
Along with our new foundation, Dickey’s Barbecue is announcing the national roll-out of our new line of potato chips. A percentage of each bag sold will benefit Barbecue, Boot &amp; Badges. Guests can try the new chips and give back to their local law enforcement and firefighters starting&nbsp;March 1&nbsp;when the chips are available nationwide!
The artisan crafted potato chips come in three bold flavors you’ll be craving:
Original&nbsp;– Thin cut potato chips with a simple, traditional flavor that pairs perfectly with slow smoked barbecue.
Barbecue&nbsp;– Flavored with the same special blend of spices used in Dickey’s famous barbecue sauce that has been passed down for generations.
Jalapeno Cheddar&nbsp;– For those who like a bold kick of spice, fresh jalapeno flavor with a tangy cheddar finish.
Dickey’s new chips will even include a way to give back to Barbecue, Boot &amp; Badges with a special QR code on each bag. Grab a bag next time you’re at your local Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and help us “Serve Those Who Serve Us.”&nbsp;

A little bit sweet and a little bit salty

Beer.&nbsp; Ribs.&nbsp; Alone they are pretty darn good.&nbsp; But, together…they are a winning combination that’s hard to beat. Beer has a knack for perfecting our most endearing comfort foods. You wouldn't pair hot dogs or hamburgers with wine, would you?&nbsp; Mostly no. &nbsp;But the king of cold ones maintains a particularly fond relationship with barbecue. Basically they go together.
Beer's bubbly brightness cuts through barbecue's pit fire and spice while&nbsp;refreshing and recharging the palate. At the same time, its complexity can balance the layers of flavor in any slab of meat. &nbsp;Let’s start with Ribs.
When pairing ribs with beer, you want malt-forward beers that have a sweet, or roasted, flavor. You don’t want a beer that’s too bitter, because that can eliminate the delicate flavors in the meat. Our ribs are sprinkled with the Dickey family’s&nbsp;<a href="http://www.goodecompany.com/goode-company-rib-rub.asp">rib rub</a>&nbsp;then Hickory-smoked until tender. A full-bodied malt beer like a dark lager couples perfectly with the smoky flavors of juicy pork ribs because of the slightly sweet, rich caramel flavor of the beer.
If you’re picking up ribs&nbsp;to go&nbsp;or ordering them online (order.dickeys.com), consider swinging by for your favorite brew.&nbsp; &nbsp;
&nbsp;

Ribs + Brew = Perfect Couple

<img alt="Dickey's Barbe, Roland Dickey Jr." src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/dickeys.jpg"/>
Why do you think barbecue is so popular across the country?
Everyone loves barbecue.&nbsp; There’s just something about sharing a plate of ribs and a cold one that brings people together.&nbsp; Barbecue is comfort food that connects with guests’ back to basics mindset.&nbsp;
People may be busier these days but they still want wholesome, quality foods that they feel good about serving to their families.&nbsp;
So, are you still planning on global barbecue domination?
You know it! Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is taking barbecue mainstream and doing something that no other brand has done before – taking barbecue to a national audience and eventually international.&nbsp;&nbsp; We’re taking the southern tradition of barbecue across the country and guests love it. And, we’re winning over hearts, minds and taste buds from California to Virginia and most places in between.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;We opened over 100 new Dickey’s Barbecue Pit locations in 2014 and plan on doing the same in 2015 – bring us much closer to barbecue global domination.
How do you keep a 74 year old brand original?
We may be a 74-year-old brand, but we definitely don’t act like it.&nbsp; Preserving the authenticity and history of our brand is very important to us. But, we put that same emphasis on innovation. We’re always looking for better ways to serve our guests. We have many new ideas to add to our already rich history such as our new restaurant designs coming soon, online and text ordering options, catering hotline, sustainable packaging and healthy menu items.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Why do you think it’s so important that Dickey’s is still family-owned?
My grandfather started Dickey's Barbecue Pit in 1941. &nbsp;He was a true Texas character blessed with the gift of gab and the love of real slow-smoked barbecue. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has always been a true family operation with my grandfather working the block and Miss Ollie Dickey serving sandwiches.&nbsp;
But, my dad and uncle really put us on the map. My dad started our catering business by pounding the pavement.&nbsp; He loved meeting new people and introducing them to great barbecue. That same entrepreneurial spirit is still at work in all of our restaurants today. I’m so proud to be the third generation fortunate to be part of such a great concept and a true American success story. &nbsp;My family built Dickey's Barbecue Pit the old fashion way, by winning one guest at a time and I’m so proud of that legacy.&nbsp; I hope guests can feel that passion!&nbsp;

Q&A with Dickey’s CEO Roland Dickey, Jr. 

<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/warm.jpg"/>
This guy knows barbecue is worth it!&nbsp;
Grab your wooly hats and fingerless gloves because it’s time to get barbecuing! &nbsp;That’s right. Barbecue may be the perfect summer dish, but it’s also pretty darn hearty to help battle these long winter days. What could be better than steam rising from your slow smoked sliced brisket with a side of jalapeno barbecue beans while relaxing in front of the fire? Pretty much nothing.&nbsp;
It’s getting hot in here…
Another great thing about barbecue is that it can be used for so many other meals.&nbsp; Nothing better on a cold day than brisket chili, pulled pork sliders and or even smoked turkey pot pie. You’ll have food for days after you barbecue some ribs, brisket and sausage – if you get snowed in you’ll be fully stocked! &nbsp;
This blog is making me hungry….Now throw on that parka and battle the snow for some barbecue, we promise you won’t regret it.&nbsp;
<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/w2.jpg"/>
This guy has the right idea!&nbsp;

Warm Yourself Up With Barbecue

Dreaming of being King of the Pit or Lord of the Smoke? Well, look no further because you can be a Pit Master in just five easy steps!
Invest in a wood smoker. Wood smokers are known to produce the most flavorful results. They’re fueled by hardwood blocks which bring their robust flavor to the meat you're smoking. Wood smokers can be tricky.&nbsp; You must monitor the smoker and add wood to the fire. At Dickey’s, we like to use Hickory wood because the strong flavor pairs perfectly with our meats.
Pick your meat. The best meats for smoking are usually best for tough cuts that need a long, slow cooking time. Cooking meats low and slow breaks down the fat and tissue to produce extremely tender meals. You also want to choose meats that will taste good with a smoky flavor. Brisket, sausage, ham, pork shoulder or pork butt, pork ribs, turkey and chicken are all great for slow smoking. Feeling fancy? Slow smoke a tilapia or lobster.
Be on time! The length of time it will take to completely cook your meat is determined by the heat of the rack, the type of meat and the size of cut. Be prepared to spend hours smoking that delicious meat – brisket can take up to 12 hours. You’ll need to monitor the temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer.
Know your placement! You can either place meats directly on the rack or put them in an aluminum tray. Remember not to wrap the meat with tin foil because it will block out the smoky flavoring. You want it to be able to surround the meat during the smoking process.
Get that smoke ring.&nbsp; Look for a pink ring underneath the delicious outer crust of the meat. This is a result of a chemical reaction that happens when the smoke infuses the meat. When you cut into your meat and see a pink smoke ring, you'll know that you smoked it right!
And, now you are on your way to being a Pit Master!&nbsp; But remember, you can always come into Dickey’s Barbecue when you are craving slow smoked meats without the work!

Be a Pit Master in Five Easy Steps

Sandwiches and pizza are so 2014. If you’ve made a few office resolutions this year like working on the team morale, planning more interesting meetings or bringing the group together around one common objective – Dickey’s catering may be the solution to all your 2015 goals! Give the office what they really want this year and add some oomph to meetings and team events with delicious slow smoked barbecue catering!
Is it your turn to order lunch for the Thursday meeting? Dickey’s Box Lunch option is the perfect solution to your new year’s goals. With two options to choose from, you won’t disappoint anyone in the office. The Standard Box includes a sandwich with your choice of slow smoked meat, chips &amp; cookie and the Deluxe Box includes all the fixins’ plus a delicious Southern-style side item.
Trying to impress new clients? Close the deal with Dickey’s delivery buffet. &nbsp;It comes with your choice of two pit smoked meats, three home style sides, buttery rolls, relish tray, barbecue sauce and paper ware.
Throw in drinks and dessert for extra brownie points! You can start planning your catering now by calling 866-BARBECUE.
&nbsp;
Bam--Now That’s What I Call An Office Lunch &nbsp;&nbsp;

New Year: New Catering Option

What you eat for your New Year’s meal could bring you luck! At Dickey’s, we happen to serve three traditional New Year’s dishes from around the world!
Pork
Did you know tradition says pigs symbolize progress? This is because pigs push themselves forward, rooting in the ground before moving. It’s also believed the rich fat content of pork also signifies wealth and prosperity! Countries around the world including Cuba, Spain, Portugal, Hungary and Austria all serve a roasted pig on New Year’s Day. In Sweden, it’s even common to have pig’s feet on New Year’s Day. You can grab a pulled pork sandwich or a rack of pork ribs at Dickey’s and ring in the New Year the right way!&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Eat me and 2015 will be one heck of a year!
Beans
We all think of traditional black eyed peas to bring New Years luck, but all beans are actually considered symbolic of money due to their small and seed-like appearance resembling coins. Beans also swell when cooked giving off more of a reward!
Cooked Greens
Cooked greens are consumed at New Year's in different countries around the world because their green leaves look like folded money, symbolizing economic prosperity. You’re just in luck – Stampede Stew, Dickey’s limited time menu item, features a combination of fresh turnip greens mixed with a vegetable broth, great northern beans and piled high with Dickey's signature Polish sausage. Stampede Stew is the perfect combination of all three lucky items for New Year’s Day!&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Eat me and 2015 will be the luckiest year yet!
We hope to see you and your family in a Dickey’s Barbecue location this New Year’s Day. Happy New Year from the Dickey’s Barbecue!&nbsp;

Eat Your Way To The Best Year Ever

Thinking about your resolutions for 2015? Don’t forget your barbecue resolutions. They are the perfect commitment to eating great food and appreciating the art behind slow smoked barbecue. Making a barbecue resolution is good for those of us planning to lose a few pounds or learn to live in the moment and savor every bite in 2015.
Vow to go low and slow. If it’s not slow smoked overnight at least 14 hours, it’s not the real deal. Grab a pork shoulder or brisket and take your time to cooking it to perfection. &nbsp;Nothing good was ever rushed. Make 2015 the year of low and slow.&nbsp;
Diversify your barbecue menu. Mr. Dickey knows a thing or two about changing up a southern favorite. Take that Easter ham up a notch and make it a barbecue honey ham in 2015 – we promise your relatives won’t be disappointed!
Spice up your rub. A good rub can make or break your barbecue. Rubs are used throughout the country to enhance the flavor of barbecue. Have a great rub and you can seal in the flavor, enhance the color of the meat and lock in moisture making it an essential part of great barbecue.
Participate in a barbecue cause. Interested in some fun competition? Register for that barbecue eating contest you read about in the paper last week or that smoking competition at your local church. You’ll probably make some friends and get a cool plaque for your office.
Make 2015 a year of barbecue – Happy New Year!&nbsp;

Make a Barbecue Resolution for 2015

The holidays are officially over. Your family is headed home, your pants fit a little snugger and your refrigerator is packed full of leftovers.&nbsp; You tried your best to send as many “to-go” containers as possible with all of your guests, but you’ve still got several pounds of Dickey’s Smoked Turkey. &nbsp;You need a recipe that is easy and doesn’t require much cooking.&nbsp; We’ve got you covered and can get you back to binge watching you favorite shows in a flash.
In “Mr. Dickey’s Barbecue Cookbook” he has a great recipe that turns those leftovers into a mouthwatering meal. &nbsp;Mr. Dickey calls it the “Hot Brown Sandwich.” So here’s how you do it:<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/turkey.png"/>
<ol>
 <li>Place a few slices of toasted bread or buns in an oven-proof dish</li>
 <li>Add a layer of that smoked turkey</li>
 <li>Add a few slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese</li>
 <li>Broil in oven until the cheese melts</li>
 <li>Remove from oven</li>
 <li>Drizzle on a little cheese sauce</li>
 <li>Add a few pickles</li>
 <li>Eat and enjoy</li>
</ol>
&nbsp; The holidays are a time for family, friends and leftovers so enjoy every moment and recipe.

Better the Second Time Around

At Dickey’s barbecue, we are passionate about our loyal guests.&nbsp; Our guests are the reasons we hand rub every piece of meat and load the smoke pit every day with extra care. &nbsp;Our guests are also the reason we yell “welcome to Dickeys” and the reason we smile as we welcome our regulars to share a meal with us week after week.&nbsp; The holidays are all about spending time with your family and spreading joy to others.&nbsp; There is never better way to celebrate the season then celebrating our guest and lunch on us helps too.
We surprised random guests with free lunch at our locations across the Dallas metroplex. It was great to see the responses faces when they found out their lunches were on us. Our team members loved participating and giving the gift of great barbecue to our guests.
We wish all our guests and their families a happy holiday and thank you for gathering at our table!
&nbsp;

Happy Holidays from Dickey’s Barbecue

Its holiday time and you’re ready to get this party started! Though, getting to the party is another story.
Traveling during the holidays can be a drag, but not if you know how to battle the crowds while keeping a smile on your face. As many of you prepare to take on both the roads and the airports, we thought we’d share some helpful holiday tips.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Plan Ahead
&nbsp;You’ll need your energy after waking up at the crack of dawn and battling the crowds. Don’t be hasty when planning your dining destinations on the road. &nbsp;Plot your stops on the road with Dickey’s Barbecue locations across the country. With over 470 locations in 42 states, you’re bound to find some Dickey’s slow smoked barbecue on your route. Just check out our locations <a href="https://www.dickeys.com/locations">here</a> and see where you can stop along the way. We even have locations in airports -- if you find yourself flying in or out of Dallas Love Field or Dallas-Fort Worth, you’re in luck!
&nbsp;
Stay Hydrated
It’s crucial to stay hydrated when traveling and you also need to stay energized to survive the holiday rush. Grab the perfect refillable companion for you trek on the road with a Big Yellow Cup. &nbsp;
Have Fun
Have fun with your family on the road or at the airport by packing travel-sized editions of your favorite board games or a pack of cards. The best games on the road don’t need supplies with I Spy, License Plates, 20 Questions and Slug-a-Bug are great for long car rides!
Dickey’s wishes you and your family happy trails and a happy holiday season!&nbsp;

Don’t Let Traveling Hinder Your Holiday Cheer

Every year my family has a tough decision to make for the holidays and it has nothing to do with ugly sweaters and holiday movies. It’s the battle of ham versus for our holiday dinner.
Ham might seem like the obvious winner because we just finished up Thanksgiving which is basically a day dedicated to family and all things turkey. &nbsp;But, the thing is….turkey can be prepared so many ways including Cajun fried, grilled, roasted, beer-can, herb roasted, bacon wrapped or if you’re really dedicated, a Turducken - a boned chicken inside a boned duck, which is then placed inside a partially boned turkey which is pretty dang awesome and can feed a small village.
But at Dickey’s, we sure do love all our Barbecue Honey Ham. If you’re craving something on the sweeter side, ham can sure hit the spot.&nbsp; And ham is a very versatile player in the leftover category too.
Of course, your family can always have both delicious meats offered at the dinner table which is great when you need to please your savory and sweet relatives.
Who wins the battle in your household, turkey or ham?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Holiday Shoot Out – Turkey vs. Ham

A pit master requires their own special tools for manning the pit, cooking low and slow, and getting those tough cuts of meat to tender and delicious perfection. There's no limit to the gear designed for the true pit master, but here is a list of some of our personal favorites that are truly useful and will set your pit's heat aflame.
&nbsp;
Tool Set 
<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/5.jpg"/>If there is one gift every pit master needs, it's a high quality barbecue cooking tool set. It doesn't matter if you are cooking on a gas, charcoal, or electric grill, the right tools will help you flip, skewer and prepare your foods like a pro.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Knife Set
<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/4.jpg"/>
For the true pit master, having the right knife is just as important as the right rub. Enjoying a delicious barbecue meal can be difficult without a quality knife. These are a must to get the job done right.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Insulated Gloves
<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/3.jpg"/>
Cooking meats to upwards of 200°F and beyond require proper handling protection. Insulated gloves are great for working with those piping hot meats fresh off the pit.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Rib Rack
<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/2.jpg"/>No matter how many ribs you cook, it never seems like enough. A simple rib rack doubles rib-cooking capacity, making sure there's always enough smoky, sweet, and spicy ribs for all—especially you *wink*
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Digital Meat Thermometer
<img alt="" src="https://www.dickeys.com/assets/pictures/1.jpg"/>As any pit master knows, cutting into your meats to check if it is done is simply not an option. A quality digital thermometer is the quickest way to check the internal temperature of your meats and ensure that it is perfect. Every. Time.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Pit Master

Have you seen a tree look so yummy? We didn’t think so
Do you have a barbecue enthusiast in your life? Trying to come up with a great gift idea for the chef in your life? Look no further than Dickey’s Barbecue Pit this holiday season. Dickey’s Barbecue has options for those pitmasters on your holiday list or those who enjoy letting the experts barbecue at their local Dickey’s Barbecue Pit. For those who enjoy the kitchen, you can snag a copy of Mr. Dickey’s Barbecue Cookbook: Recipes of a True Pitmaster on Amazon <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Dickeys-Barbecue-Cookbook-Recipes/dp/1455616869">here</a>. The book is filled with recipes from our founder’s family which includes a range of barbecue dishes and southern staples. This is the gift that keeps on giving!
Trying to decide on stocking stuffers? Gift Cards are perfect for people who frequent their local Dickey’s Barbecue or your college student who’s tired of eating in the school cafeteria. Gift cards are available at a Dickey’s location near you and online <a href="https://www.giftcardmall.com/brands/654/dickeys-barbecue-restaurants">here</a>. Happy holidays, y’all!&nbsp;

Yellow gift cards peeking out make every stocking look better&nbsp;

You and your stomach will want the pitmaster in your life to have this cookbook.&nbsp;

Press Room