The humble barbecue joint has for years been a staple in Central Florida, but some newer places are heating up the competition and prompting some old-timers to retool their strategies.
The popular 4 Rivers Smokehouse will open a third restaurant in Longwood, and it may build a fourth in east Orlando. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, a Texas-based fast-casual chain, is expanding here. Some new independents — including barbecue food trucks — have also started up and gained a following.
Inexpensive comfort food, barbecue can attract customers even during tough economic times, analysts say. And in Central Florida, consumers who come from all over have less loyalty to a particular regional flavor, so they’ll try all kinds — from Texas-style brisket to pulled pork sandwiches that are a Memphis specialty.