DALLAS – Dickey’s Barbecue Pit announced Phil Butler has joined the barbecue chain as the new research and development chef.

Butler’s experience spans classic fine dining, designing restaurant concepts and menus. He has been featured in several events and publications including Bon Appetit magazine.

“I have always enjoyed slow-smoked barbecue and truly fell in love with the direct science of smoking the perfect piece of meat,” Butler said. “Dickey’s is focused on crafting only the best barbecue for their guests and I look forward to working with the team to continue the brand’s success.”

Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants Inc., said, “With his years of experience, we look forward to the new and innovative ideas he has to take the Dickey’s brand to an even higher standard than we have today.”