Wild West Adventures Barbecue to Open in Former Jake's BBQ Shack Location

A new restaurant is opening its doors in downtown Dexter following approval from the Dexter Village Council on Monday.

The council voted 7-0 to approve a two-year lease agreement with Scot Thomas for the property located at 8050 Main St.

Thomas will open Wild West Barbecue Adventures, a barbecue takeout restaurant featuring homemade southern-style comfort food.

The building was previously leased by Bart Aniolczyk, who operated Jake's BBQ Shack before filing for bankruptcy earlier this year.

Village Manager Donna Dettling said the village received six inquiries to lease the space, including three food businesses, an insurance office, and a women's clothing boutique and gift shop. The village also considered using the building for public restrooms before ultimately leasing the property to Thomas.

"The deciding factor to award the lease to Scot is that he has an established business in Dexter with an established customer base," Dettling said.

Thomas and his crew have operated Chuckwagon Barbecue, a seasonal stand, next to the Dexter Mill for the past three years.

"The seasonal operation closes in October," Dettling said. "This will allow Scott to continue his operation all year."

The restaurant will offer its trademark barbecue sauces, dry rubs, and recipe books.

Dettling said a Vietnamese restaurant and a Mexican restaurant also were considered for the lease.

Thomas has a background in food preparation and store management with Bob Evans Restaurants and the International House of Pancakes.