Memphis-Style Barbecue Diner Coming to Old Pizza Hut Site

An abandoned Pizza Hut building is being transformed into a diner that will feature a menu offering a wide array of barbecue items.

Memphis native Kevin Woodard says the Town of Owego site that had been home to a pizza restaurant for many years is ideal for the eatery he intends to open.

The location on Hickories Park Road is just off an exit from the future Interstate 86.

Woodard, who is known as "Chef Demarcus," opened a BelAir BBQ Diner on Washington Avenue in Endicott last year. He said potential customers were reluctant to visit that location, so he set up shop at a temporary site on Route 17C, a short distance from the former Pizza Hut property.

Woodard said he's been gratified by the warm reception he's received in Tioga County. He said "Owego has really embraced us."

Woodard has been busy renovating the old Pizza Hut building in recent weeks. He said he hopes to open his diner at the new site in December.

Woodard said many of his customers visit from out-of-town, so the new location near the expressway will be convenient for them.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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