Dickey's Barbecue Pit: Where Flavor Meets Heart in Panama City Beach

PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL - Dickey's Barbecue Pit, a cherished American family-owned barbecue restaurant chain headquartered in Dallas, Texas, has found a new home under the ownership of Saleh Nofal in Panama City. Originally established here in 2015, Dickey's has become synonymous with mouthwatering barbecue, and under Mr. Nofal's stewardship, it promises to bring a unique blend of BBQ and community engagement to the heart of Bay County.

Saleh Nofal, a former restaurant owner and entrepreneur, took the reins of the Panama City Beach Dickey's in 2023. His journey into the restaurant business began with Taste The World, a culinary gem in the Panama City Mall that delighted patrons with authentic Palestinian cuisine. Mr. Nofal and his family moved to the United States 17 years ago from Palestine, and since then, they have been active in the local business community, owning several businesses.

The acquisition of Dickey's was not just a business move for Mr. Nofal; it was a culinary adventure fueled by passion and a commitment to providing top-notch barbecue to the community. After the devastating Hurricane Michael in 2018 forced him to close Taste The World, there was hesitation about returning to the restaurant scene. However, the allure of Dickey's and its renowned smoking process convinced Mr. Nofal to embark on this flavorful endeavor.

Dickey's unique smoking process involves meticulous pit maintenance, a task Mr. Nofal undertakes daily to ensure the production of delicious smoked meats. The results are evident in the dishes he serves – from moist and not greasy brisket to chicken with a delightful hickory-smoked flavor and ribs smoked to perfection, boasting just the right amount of bark.

Quality extends beyond the kitchen for Mr. Nofal. He is a stickler for cleanliness and high standards, personally overseeing the cleanliness of every nook and cranny, from the bathrooms to the kitchen. This commitment to excellence is reflected not only in the food but also in the overall dining experience.

Mr. Nofal's dedication to community goes beyond the walls of Dickey's. Recognizing the sacrifices of first responders, he provides free pulled pork sandwich coupons to show appreciation. During the last week of January and first week of February, the Dickey’s BBQ team took lunch to every fire department in Bay County, and to 100 police at the Panama City Beach Police Department. They also delivered meals to 50 deputies at the Sheriff’s Department.

In addition to his commitment to community welfare, Mr. Nofal is keen on making Dickey's a family-friendly establishment. Kids eat free on Sundays! He has a sign in behind the register that says “If you hard up on cash, pay what you can, and GOD will take care of the rest.” That is how much he really cares about the community.

Catering also plays a significant role in Dickey's under Mr. Nofal's ownership, constituting 15% of the business. This reflects not only the popularity of Dickey's barbecue but also the trust the community places in Mr. Nofal's commitment to quality and service.

Dickey's Barbecue Pit, now under the caring and passionate ownership of Saleh Nofal, is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Texas flavors, community spirit, and a commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience for all. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or simply looking for a welcoming place to dine, Dickey's in Panama City is the destination where flavor meets heart.

https://www.dickeys.com/locations/florida/panama-city/panama-city-beach