A beloved barbecue chain, known as much for its signature sauces as for its smoked meats, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, adding fuel to the ongoing challenges facing the restaurant industry. Based in South Carolina, Sticky Fingers Restaurants—whose sauces grace the shelves of over 2,000 retail outlets—has seen better days as financial pressures and inconsistent management have taken their toll.
A Storied Past Marred by Modern Struggles
Founded in 1992, Sticky Fingers once operated 15 locations across the Southeast, attracting a loyal following with its menu featuring barbecue pork ribs, smoked brisket, pulled pork, and an array of Southern sides such as fried okra, mac and cheese, and baked beans. Over time, however, shifts in ownership and a lack of consistent leadership led to a decline in both food quality and service standards. This erosion of the brand’s core values has been linked to a drop in sales and an inability to compete in a market that has grown ever more competitive, especially in the post-pandemic era.…