Observer-Reporter: Dickey’s Barbecue coming to Trinity Point

The nation’s largest barbecue franchise is coming to Southwestern Pennsylvania, and it will land first in Trinity Point.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is targeted to open in June in the South Strabane Township shopping center. It will operate in the space previously occupied by Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, near Sam’s Club.

This will be only the second Dickey’s in Western Pennsylvania.

The Dallas-based operation launched a location in Erie last week.

“We’re mostly in the Southwest and Midwest, and we’re trying to branch into the Northeast. I think we’re planning to hit the East Coast pretty hard,” said Tony Evans, general manager of Morgantown, W.Va., location. At 38 miles, it is the closest Dickey’s to downtown Washington. Fairmont is the next nearest, 49 miles.

Dickey’s has 540 locations in 43 states, including a number in eastern Pennsylvania.

There are dozens in Texas, but none in New England.

According to its website, dickeys.com, the fast-casual chain “serves slow-smoked meats, homestyle sides and tangy barbecue sauces.”

Dickey’s is celebrating its diamond jubilee – 75 years. A World War I veteran, Travis Dickey, launched the franchise in Dallas in 1941. His grandson, Roland Dickey Jr., is the current chief executive officer.

Evans said he is helping with launch of the Trinity Point restaurant, which he added will have seating for 50 in 1,600 square feet.