Toni Espinoza is venturing down a new life path.

A realtor in Fort Stockton for the past year, Espinoza recently purchased the Fort Stockton Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, but she’s not giving up on real estate.

“I’m going to still be doing real estate and of course managing and operating Dickey’s BBQ,” Espinoza said.

An asset manager for an investment company for 24 years, Espinoza got into real estate last year, but decided she wanted to have her own business, and jumped at the opportunity to take over the Fort Stockton Dickey’s franchise.

Customers can expect some changes, including catering, but the restaurant will still serve great barbecue.

“We’re looking into getting a beer license,” Espinosa said, adding that Door Dash and catering os will be added soon.

Espinoza is going to concentrate in customer service, which is something she has been in all her life.

“For me, it’s wanting to make sure we give the outstanding customer service experience when you go in,” Espinoza said. “And of course, good barbecue.”

Espinoza epitomizes the Entrepreneurial spirit.

“That is my vision, being an entrepreneur,” Espinoza added. “Being an employee for 24 years and wanting to do something for myself.”

Dickey’s is an opportunity for her to put her customer service and management experience together to create a great new restaurant experience for Fort Stockton.

“I wanted to implement the experience that I have into making this business grow and be better,” Espinoza added, “Where we can have good barbecue, for sure.”

Dickey’s is located at 409 West Dickinson and the hours will remain the same: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.