Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is opening in space that last housed BBQ Republic within Torrey Hills Center, which is being refitted for Dickey’s quick-serve smokehouse format. This will be the chain’s third San Diego County location, joining San Marcos and El Cajon. The new store will be operated by franchisee Saif Battah, who could not be reached for comment, and will have a Type 41 Beer & Wine license.
Founded in Dallas in 1941, Dickey’s is known for Texas-style smoked meats - brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, turkey - plus classic sides like mac & cheese, creamed spinach, beans, slaw, and rolls. Typical stores offer counter service, family packs, kids meals, off-site catering, and online ordering. While the company hasn’t publicly shared a local opening menu, San Diego guests can generally expect the brand’s national staples (meat plates, sandwiches, loaded bakers, and shareable platters) along with rotating limited-time items.
Dickey’s grew rapidly in the 2010s to become what it markets as the world’s largest barbecue chain, expanding primarily through franchising. In recent years, however, media analyses have noted a contraction in store count from a mid-decade peak to fewer than 400 U.S. restaurants today, citing a mix of closures and refranchising.
The brand’s expansion has been shadowed by high-profile disputes with some franchisees. Over the past decade, Dickey’s has faced a wave of franchisee lawsuits and federal complaints alleging deceptive marketing and financial mismanagement - which has been extensively reported in a New York Times exposé published in June. Some operators claim to have lost their life savings or homes after investing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Others accuse the company of retaliating against those who spoke out, while critics say Dickey’s corporate policies make profitability nearly impossible due to vendor restrictions and steep royalties.
In response, CEO Laura Rea Dickey has called such reports “biased and misleading,” emphasizing that most franchisees are successful and profitable when following the company’s model. The brand continues to expand both domestically and overseas, operating more than 375 restaurants across 41 states and eight countries.
Despite its controversies, Dickey’s remains one of the most recognizable barbecue names in the United States, known for its smoky brisket, family-friendly atmosphere, and deep Texas roots. Its arrival in Torrey Hills adds another major player to the North County dining scene, offering San Diegans a taste of Southern barbecue - served with a side of corporate drama.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is expected to open soon at 4645 Carmel Mountain Road, Suite 202, between San Diego's Torrey Hills and Carmel Country Highlands. For more information, visit dickeys.com.
Originally published on October 22, 2025.