About Us

About Phil’s Dream Pit

Phil’s Dream Pit started as a dream. Always wanting to cook barbeque for others, Phil bought a smoker in 2007. While keeping his full-time job, he smoked meat for friends and neighbors and catered a few events. Everyone raved about his food, encouraging him to open a restaurant. A unique combination of circumstances evolved to present an opportunity:

Phil decided to cash out his 401k, take a leap of faith, and live his dream of operating a successful BBQ restaurant.

Phil’s Dream Pit opened in 2008, and the “Quest for Perfect BBQ” began.

Critics felt the location was too far away from everything, but the BBQ restaurant is only a few miles from Kingsport and Johnson City, TN. A huge number of regulars and many word-of-mouth referrals keep the place busy.

Of course, our customers return for more than just the great food. Phil cares about his staff, his customers’ dining experience, and ensuring that the food is always consistent and always great. A fun, local BBQ place with excellent food was Phil’s way of serving his community. 

When Phil was ready to retire, his nephew Brian also encountered a unique series of circumstances similar to his uncle. After partnering with Phil for two years, Brian obtained ownership of the restaurant in 2022. 

Come experience Phil’s Dream Pit for yourself!

Here’s a Taste of Our
Delicious Food

Phil’s Dream Pit prepares our BBQ fresh every day with a consistency that is hard to beat. The pulled pork is smoky, tender, and juicy. Sliced beef brisket has a nice smoke ring and is also juicy and tender without being chewy or tough. The baby back BBQ ribs are extra meaty, not fat, with just enough smoke flavor. Wet ribs are a symphony of smoke, seasoning, and sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Memphis-style dry ribs with a kick are also available.

Serving Our Community

Phil’s Dream Pit has always believed in serving our local communities and supporting worthwhile organizations. Investing in people and treating them how we want to be treated is Phil’s personal philosophy, and Phil’s Dream Pit embodies this in everything we do. Some of the organizations and causes we support include: 

Visit Phil’s Dream Pit

Where can you find a traditional southern BBQ joint with fast service, great food, and a friendly atmosphere? Phil’s Dream Pit is at 534 Eastern Star Road, Kingsport, TN. It is conveniently located near I-26 and I-81, just minutes from Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol. 

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