By Staff Report
Like the first one that opened in Brandon, Florida back in 1985, the new Chipley Beef O’Brady’s will be a small-town pub that prioritizes delicious food and family-friendliness.
“The Beef’s brand fits well in the rural market of America,†said Scott O’Brien, Beef’s franchisee and owner-operator. “It’s a family pub that delivers great food and good times over sports.â€
The family-owned and operated franchise restaurant will break ground at 1403 Main Street likely within the next month and open at the start of next year. The project has been a long-time coming for O’Brien who also owns the Beef’s in Marianna.
“We opened the Beef’s in Marianna 14 years ago with all the intentions of building one in Chipley – that was our original plan,†he said. But after a business partner backed out, “we had to put it on the shelf.â€
Like for many business owners, Hurricane Michael’s destruction also cleared the path for growth. Then, following the COVID-19 pandemic, O’Brien identified land in Chipley that would be opportune to build a new Beef’s location.
“It was the right time,†he said.
The new location will herald in the latest designs of the Beef O’Brady’s brand and remain consistent with the same iconic menu items that neighborhood people enjoy, such as the award-winning wings available in 12 signature sauces.
“Our wings are fresh, not frozen,†O’Brien said, emphasizing the quality of food is a logistical priority. “Being in a small town, you develop a good relationship with your community and people plan on being there (at Beef’s) frequently. They will find on our menu there is something for everyone.â€
O’Brien anticipates the new location will create 40-50 new jobs and will soon join the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. He said he is excited to bring the brand to the county and believes the innovative thinking by the brand’s leadership has prepared him to open another successful location.
“It’s a very special and unique business to connect with people, provide jobs, a great work environment, and to really be a part of your community,†O’Brien said. “We’re here to complement the community. We’re not here to hurt any other businesses.â€
“We have always believed that a Beef O’Brady’s would complement Washington County,†he concluded. “And that’s our goal.â€
COLLIN BREAUX