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Pit Daddy’s BBQ is taking over the previous location of Charlie’s Ice Cream and Water Ice.
Pit Daddy’s BBQ of Smyrna held its grand opening on Sept. 26 and has already made a name for itself in Kent County with its quality barbecue.
Owner Charles Dickerson, commonly known by customers as “CJ”, decided to open the restaurant shortly after losing his job due to the coronavirus. His previous employer laid him off in March and then a month and half later, it told employees the company was shutting down.
“I had always had a dream of, when I left my production manager job in New Castle, my next job would be working for myself. I thought, ‘This must be a sign,’” he says.
Since opening the restaurant, Dickerson is finding popularity in menu items other than barbecue such as the smokin’ spud, a large baked potato piled with your choice of meat, cheese, chives, sour cream, and more. Plus, non-barbecue items like the nachos and mac and cheese.
“If you like real barbecue this is the best, “Krystal Edwards says, a new customer.” I have been waiting for more since I first had it at the shop small event in Dover in November [2019].”
Besides the extensive barbecue menu, Pit Daddy’s sells their own chicken and pork rub for cooking at home. Plus, the restaurant caters to businesses around the state.
Dickerson’s experience comes from his time competing in barbecue competitions and judging for several years.
“I went and became a certified Kansas City barbecue judge, we’re part of the Kansas City barbecue sanction – we just decided to step up and open a restaurant,” he says.
Dickerson receives help running Pit Daddy’s from his family. He hopes his business becomes a family tradition.
“It’s pretty family oriented so I have my mom, my fiancé, my two boys help out a little when they’re not in school – everyone wants to help just starting out and I am very appreciative,” he explains.
Despite the multiple barbecue restaurants in the area, Dickerson believes his location is perfect for those traveling in between Dover and Smyrna.
“I believe if you give a reasonable price and a quality product, people are going to come,” he says.
Hours for the restaurant are Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is closed Monday and Tuesday.
Pit Daddy’s BBQ; 63 W. Big Woods Road; (302) 471-3285