Uncovering the Mystery: Who is the Proud Owner of Underdog BBQ?

There’s something special about a good barbecue joint – the smell of smoky meats, the sounds of laughter and chatter, and of course, the irresistible taste of delicious BBQ sauce. But have you ever wondered who is behind these beloved barbecue spots? In particular, who owns the popular and flavorful Underdog BBQ? This is a question that piques the curiosity of many BBQ aficionados, and in this article, we’ll dive into the answer. Prepare to discover the masterminds behind one of your favorite BBQ joints as we explore the question: Who Owns Underdog BBQ?

Underdog BBQ is a popular restaurant that has been making waves in the food scene. From mouth-watering BBQ dishes to stellar customer service, this eatery has captured the hearts of many. However, have you ever wondered who owns Underdog BBQ? In this article, we will dive into all the details about the ownership of this beloved BBQ joint. So, let’s satisfy our curiosity and find out – who exactly is behind Underdog BBQ?

The Early Days of Underdog BBQ:

Underdog BBQ was founded by two friends and business partners – Josh Lamkin and Steve Madaio. The two first met in college and bonded over their love for food and cooking. After graduation, they both pursued different career paths but remained close friends.

In 2015, their dream of opening a restaurant together became a reality when they decided to open Up In Smoke BBQ in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. It quickly gained popularity with its delicious food and friendly atmosphere. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, they were forced to close down the restaurant.

The Birth of Underdog BBQ:

Determined not to let their setback discourage them, Josh and Steve decided to try again. They partnered with Chef Eddie Jackson (winner of Food Network’s “BBQ Blitz”) and opened a new restaurant – Underdog BBQ in 2017. This time around, they ventured into a different market – Downtown Erie, Pennsylvania.

The name “Underdog” was chosen as a nod to Erie’s working-class roots and the struggles they had faced while starting their first restaurant. The owners wanted to create a space where everyone could feel like an underdog – a place where hard work and perseverance are rewarded.

The Owner: Josh Lamkin

Josh Lamkin is one half of the duo behind Underdog BBQ. He serves as the co-owner and vice president of operations for both Underdog BBQ and Up In Smoke. Although Josh has no formal culinary background, he has always had a passion for cooking and trying out new recipes.

Before starting his career in the food industry, Josh worked as a business consultant for over 12 years. His skills in management and finance have definitely come in handy when running his own restaurant business.

The Owner: Steve Madaio

Steve Madaio is the other co-owner and vice president of research and development for Underdog BBQ. Similar to Josh, Steve also has no professional culinary training, but he has always been passionate about cooking and creating new dishes.

Prior to opening Underdog BBQ, Steve worked as a business developer for an IT company. His experience in sales and marketing has been crucial in promoting their brand and expanding their customer base.

As you can see, Underdog BBQ is not just any ordinary restaurant – it’s a passion project that was brought to life by two friends who share a love for cooking. Josh Lamkin and Steve Madaio’s determination and hard work have paid off in creating a successful business that continues to delight customers with its delicious food.

So, next time you visit Underdog BBQ, remember the faces behind this amazing eatery – Josh Lamkin and Steve Madaio. Their story is a true testament that with perseverance and creativity, anyone can achieve their dreams.

Understanding the History of Underdog BBQ

Underdog BBQ is a popular barbecue restaurant located in Erie, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 2010 by brothers Jim and Tim DiPietro, who shared a love for food and their community. The restaurant started as a small operation with just a few outdoor picnic tables, but it quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike.

The brothers’ passion for BBQ was instilled in them by their father, who owned a BBQ joint in New York. They grew up watching him perfect his recipes and techniques, which they later incorporated into their own menu at Underdog BBQ. From their homemade sauces to slow-cooked meats, every dish is rooted in their family’s love for BBQ.

Despite facing initial challenges such as limited funds and lack of experience in running a restaurant, the brothers’ determination and hard work paid off. Their focus on using high-quality ingredients and providing exceptional service quickly gained them a loyal customer base. Today, Underdog BBQ is not only known for its delicious food but also for its commitment to giving back to the community through various charity events and donations.

The Team Behind Underdog BBQ

Behind every successful restaurant is a team of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to ensure its success. At Underdog BBQ, this team consists not only of the DiPietro brothers but also of their business partners and employees.

Jim DiPietro is the pitmaster, responsible for creating the mouth-watering meats that have customers coming back for more. He has mastered the art of smoking meats over wood fire, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes that are unique to Underdog BBQ.

Tim DiPietro is the head chef, responsible for creating the delicious sides and desserts that perfectly complement the meats. He also oversees the kitchen operations and ensures that every dish that leaves the kitchen meets their high standards.

Aside from the DiPietro brothers, Underdog BBQ has a team of experienced managers, servers, and kitchen staff who work together to provide customers with an exceptional dining experience. They are all passionate about BBQ and take pride in serving their community.

The Success and Growth of Underdog BBQ

Underdog BBQ’s success is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and community support. What started as a small restaurant with just a handful of tables has now grown into a thriving business with two locations and a food truck.

Thanks to the positive reviews from customers and media coverage, Underdog BBQ gained national recognition when they were featured on the popular television show “Shark Tank.” This exposure led to an investment from billionaire businessman Mark Cuban, which enabled the restaurant to expand its operations further.

Today, Underdog BBQ continues to attract customers from all over the country who come for their award-winning barbecue and stay for their welcoming atmosphere and commitment to their community. The restaurant has also won numerous awards and accolades for its food and philanthropic efforts.

The Future of Underdog BBQ

As Underdog BBQ continues to grow in popularity, the DiPietro brothers remain true to their roots. They are committed to maintaining high-quality standards while also finding ways to give back to their community. The team is constantly experimenting with new recipes and flavors, keeping things fresh for their loyal customer base.

In addition to expanding their brick-and-mortar locations, Underdog BBQ has also expanded its reach through partnerships with other businesses. They have collaborated with local breweries and distilleries for unique food and drink pairings, as well as offering catering services for events.

The future looks bright for Underdog BBQ as it continues to be a beloved destination for barbecue lovers everywhere. With its delicious food, dedicated team, and strong values, it’s no surprise that this underdog has become top dog in the BBQ world.

1. Who owns Underdog BBQ?
Underdog BBQ is owned by celebrity chef Guy Fieri and his business partner Doug Keiles.

2. What inspired Guy Fieri to open Underdog BBQ?
Guy Fieri was inspired to open Underdog BBQ after competing in a barbecue competition with his friend Doug Keiles and realizing the potential of their barbecue techniques.

3. Where is Underdog BBQ located?
Underdog BBQ currently has two locations, one in Sonoma County, California, and one in Easton, Pennsylvania.

4. Does Guy Fieri have any other restaurants?
Yes, aside from Underdog BBQ, Guy Fieri owns multiple other restaurants across the United States including several locations of his popular franchise “Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Kitchen”.

5. What type of cuisine does Underdog BBQ serve?
As the name suggests, Underdog BBQ specializes in American-style barbecue with a menu featuring smoked meats, classic sides, burgers, and sandwiches.

6. Can I order takeout from Underdog BBQ?
Yes, both locations of Underdog BBQ offer takeout options for customers. Takeout can be ordered on their website or through various delivery apps such as DoorDash and Grubhub.

In conclusion, the question of who owns Underdog BBQ is complex and multi-faceted. While Arthur Pizzichillo and Frank Linn may have initially started the business, their partnership has since dissolved. However, Pizzichillo maintains ownership of the trademark and intellectual property associated with Underdog BBQ. The restaurant is now run by a team of dedicated employees who have helped it grow into a successful franchise.

Despite the changes in ownership and management, Underdog BBQ remains a beloved establishment known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. Its success can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of its employees and the support of the local community. As such, Underdog BBQ truly belongs to all those who have contributed to its success.

This topic also highlights the importance of clearly defining ownership in a business partnership to avoid legal disputes in the future. It serves as a reminder that while partnerships can be beneficial, they also come with risks that should be carefully considered.

In the end, whoever may technically own Underdog BBQ, it is clear that it is more than just a business – it is a community landmark and symbol of perseverance. Its story serves as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and reminds us of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and passion for what we do.

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Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.