Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Van's Pig Stands | Authentic Barbecue Since 1930
Van's Pig Stands has been a cornerstone of Oklahoma's culinary scene since 1930, delivering hickory-smoked barbecue steeped in family tradition. Founded by Leroy 'Van' Vandegrift, our commitment to quality and heritage remains unwavering through three generations of family ownership. We specialize in slow-smoked ribs, brisket, and our signature Pig Sandwiches, crafted using time-honored recipes passed down since our inception. Our dedication to excellence extends to catering services for large events, serving thousands across Oklahoma and beyond.With five locations spanning Shawnee, Norman, Moore, and Purcell, we continue to honor our roots while welcoming new guests to experience Oklahoma's oldest family-owned barbecue tradition. Our team of long-tenured staff, some with over 50 years of service, ensures every meal maintains the authenticity that has defined Van's for nearly a century. From our original Shawnee location to our newest Moore establishment, we remain committed to preserving the flavors and hospitality that have made us a regional institution.
Services
Barbecue Catering
Pig Sandwiches
Smoked Ribs
Brisket
Private Events
Historical Tours
Details
- Year established: 1930
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1930 with three generations of barbecue expertise
- Catering services for events with thousands of guests
- Five convenient locations across central Oklahoma
- Original recipes perfected over 95 years of operation
- Long-tenured staff maintaining authentic preparation methods
What people say
Perfectly smoked ribs
Historic charm
Consistent quality
Friendly service
Authentic flavors
Services
Barbecue Catering
Van's Pig Stands provides full-service catering for events of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations. Our menu features signature smoked meats, traditional sides, and signature sauces prepared using century-old recipes. With experience handling events for thousands of guests, our team ensures flawless execution from menu planning to on-site service.
Pig Sandwiches
Our iconic Pig Sandwiches feature slow-smoked pork topped with house-made barbecue sauce and relish on butter-toasted buns. Available in classic and specialty variations, these sandwiches showcase our commitment to traditional preparation methods while offering modern flavor profiles. Each sandwich is served with a side of our award-winning baked beans.
Smoked Ribs
Van's hickory-smoked ribs are prepared using a proprietary dry-rub technique perfected over 95 years. Available in half or full racks, these fall-off-the-bone ribs come with your choice of original or jalapeo-infused barbecue sauce. Our rib platter serves 2-4 people with traditional sides included.
Private Events
Our dedicated event spaces accommodate groups from 20 to 200 guests across five locations. Each venue offers historical ambiance with modern amenities, including audio-visual equipment and customizable menus. Our event coordinators provide personalized service for weddings, corporate events, and family reunions.
Historical Tours
Guided tours explore our 95-year history through archival photos, original recipes, and family stories. Visitors learn about our evolution from a single roadside stand to Oklahoma's oldest barbecue institution. The tour includes tastings of our signature sauces and a behind-the-scenes look at our smoking process.
People
Jerry Vandegrift
Former Owner/Operator
Jerry Vandegrift led Van's Pig Stands from 1974 until his passing in 2023. He expanded the business from one location to five during his 49-year tenure, maintaining his father's commitment to quality while modernizing operations.
Jev Vandegrift
Manager
Third-generation family member Jev Vandegrift manages operations at multiple locations. With over 25 years of experience, he oversees menu development and quality control while preserving traditional preparation methods.
Mark Shuman
General Manager
Mark Shuman has served as General Manager since 1997, overseeing daily operations and staff training. He began his career in the Charcoal Room and now ensures consistency across all locations while maintaining our historical legacy.
Questions
What makes Van's Pig Stands unique?
We're Oklahoma's oldest family-owned barbecue restaurant, operating continuously since 1930 with recipes and techniques passed through three generations.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide full-service catering for events of all sizes, including custom menus and on-site service for up to 2,000 guests.
What are your most popular menu items?
Our hickory-smoked ribs, brisket, and signature Pig Sandwiches are consistently top sellers, along with our house-made barbecue sauces.
Do you have vegetarian options?
While primarily a barbecue restaurant, we offer several vegetarian sides and salads, including our award-winning baked beans and twice-baked potatoes.
Are your sauces available for purchase?
Yes, we sell our original and jalapeño-infused barbecue sauces in 6oz bottles at all locations and through our online store.
Do you offer gift cards?
We provide both physical and digital gift cards redeemable at any Van's Pig Stands location, available for purchase online or in-store.
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