The roots of this venerable establishment were originally planted by Tennessee native Leroy “Van” Vandegrift, who moved with family to Oklahoma City, where he graduated from Central High. He served in the Army before working as a tool dresser in the oil fields of North Texas and began cooking for fellow roughnecks on rig sites. Around 1928, Van opened his first Pig Stand in a hotel in Wewoka, Oklahoma. It was a small little store serving barbecue such as the Pig Sandwich® and Ribs. The menu also included other types of sandwiches such as Liverwurst, Pimento, Chicken Salad, and Cream Cheese. In 1929 a second Pig Stand opened in Seminole and was then sold in 1935. Pig Stands were later opened in Wichita Falls, Texas and Wichita, Kansas.
On June 5, 1930, Van opened his third Pig Stand Location at 714 Highland in Shawnee. In the same year, Van married Thelma Maree Glenn. In 1935 the Shawnee store moved across the street to its present location.
Our meal was absolutely exceptional and our server helper. TC was so incredible and explaining all of the different programs and options of purchasing products here at vans. I was very impressed with this young man very articulate.. our meal was honestly exceptional.
CO
chance olsen
Oct 10, 2025
5.0
Really enjoyed the atmosphere and people working here. Very friendly, but most of all, some real good bbq.
JJ
Jack Jarvis
Oct 5, 2025
2.0
Okay where do I even begin. Look I’m not a huge barbecue guy and I was trying to keep it light (Sunday Lunch) so I asked the Lady “do you guys do like chicken or anything” and she said “yes just on Sunday’s”. I was pretty pumped and ordered a Chicken Sandwich. Then I get called up to the register and a guy reprimands me asking “why did you order chicken, we don’t do chicken” it was a whole thing. They gave me chicken in the end but it was just weird. But then we get to the real killer: I realized when I got home I left my Sunglass at the restaurant. I called and asked and a waiter said “Oh yeah I saw them at your table” so I said “Can I have them?” And he said “Oh no it’s been cleaned since then and they’re gone” ???? Very clear that they stole my sunglasses, and it’s very hard to imagine this isn’t in some way related to the chicken incident. I give it 2-stars because 1-star feels downright evil but pretty strange experience.
LC
Lafe Cain
Sep 24, 2025
2.0
I was expecting some good BBQ for the price. This was not true smoked meat. My sliced Brisket was tough and dry. Returned it the second time was no better. Sorry guys
O1
OKGirl 1976
Sep 7, 2025
5.0
This is my favorite BBQ right now!
My first time was after last weekend's OU football game, but I quickly learned that they close at 9 p.m. I will avoid closing time in the future. We first pulled up to the drive-thru and clearly stated over the speaker that we were coming inside.
After ordering, we were informed that they were closing. I decided to sit anyway because we had to wait for the food. Once again, we were informed by another employee that they were closing soon. We got our food and began to eat and was, again, told that they were closing soon. I get it, but every restaurant I have ever been to allows the guests to eat before making them leave. I would understand if we were prolonging eating, but it was just moments after closing time.
We took our food outside, feeling unwanted, and ate on the hood of our vehicle. Fortunately, I was allowed back inside to use the restroom.
The food was wonderful!! I have Alpha-Gal, so I had the smoked turkey sandwich. I also have Celiac Disease, so I had to upgrade to a gluten-free bun. The sauce is unbelievably tasty!!!
Because of the taste of the food, we returned today and enjoyed the restaurant in fully open mode. We were able to receive their novelty cups rather than Styrofoam. We also were able to enjoy the relish bar.
In addition to our meals, we ended up buying extra sauce. The man who bottled it for us was super friendly and helpful. We had an amazing experience today.
Unfortunately, we didn't realize that they had a rewards program. So, our meals from last week and this week were not counted, but some points were earned for the sauce.
We live about 3 hours away, but we will definitely be returning!!! I love the food!! Today everyone was extremely helpful!