Greater Long Island: Popular BBQ chain to open first Suffolk County location at Centereach Square

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Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, one of the nation’s largest BBQ chain, is planning to open its first Suffolk County location in Centereach Square sometime this spring.

Known for their slow-cooked smoked meats and wholesome sides with “No B.S. (Bad Stuff),” the Dallas-based franchise has been around for 77 years. With over 500 locations in 44 states, 21 locations are planned to come to New York thanks to franchisee, Jerry Stephan.

Stephan told GreaterPortJeff that his first Dickey’s location is set to open in on the corner of Middle Country and Mark Tree roads.

This isn’t Stephan’s first business endeavor.

“I opened the first Quiznos in Suffolk County,” he said. “I like to bring in different concepts and BBQ is really under underrepresented on Long Island.”

The 2,150-square-foot space was formerly a frozen yogurt spot and has been vacant. All Stephan is waiting for now is its permitting to be finished up. “Everyone’s really excited and I’m pushing for the permits, but it takes some time,” he said.

As an area developer, he has the ability to build or sell Dickey’s across the island. The only other Long Island location, which is not affiliated with Stephan, is located in Lawrence.

“It’s a good product, I like the concept,” he added. “They’ve been around since 1941 and they’re a great company to work with.”

After seeing different Dickey’s throughout his travels, Stephan decided one needed to be brought locally.

“There are no BBQ chains on Long Island,” Stephan said. “There’s a few mom and pops and big restaurants, but this is different.”

Their menu includes barbecued poultry, pork ribs and briskets, with sides like mac and cheese, baked potato casserole and warm rolls.

Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., said that the company is looking forward to expanding on Long Island.

“Since 1941, we’ve been smoking our meats on-site low and slow to give guests that authentic, Texas-Style barbecue at each one of our locations,” she said. “We’re proud to bring wholesome sides and hickory-smoked meats for Long Islanders to enjoy in our home or theirs.”