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.
Mixed reviews on food quality; some praised the BBQ while others found meats dry and lacking flavor.
Service Experience
Service is generally friendly, but some customers reported rude interactions and issues with order accuracy.
Pricing
Many customers felt the food was overpriced for the quality received.
Atmosphere
The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere, with some noting its unique decor and cleanliness.
Customer Loyalty
Several long-time customers expressed strong loyalty and fond memories of the restaurant.
TB
Theron Bowles
3 days ago
4.0
Solid BBQ. Fast responsive service. Decent meal. Checks all the boxes I want for a BBQ place. Would highly recommend getting the Mac & Cheese as one of your sides.
MS
Marcus Sullivan
Nov 16, 2025
5.0
Top notch best bbq in the state, excellent service fast and friendly.
AR
Angela Redman
Nov 14, 2025
1.0
Usually Vans is great. Today I ordered my mom and hamburgers. Asked for everything except mayo. The hamburgers arrived with only mayo. For what they cost this was a very disappointing visit.
SH
Steven Hall
Nov 9, 2025
5.0
Great BBQ. Smokey sweet sauce is significantly better than the normal sauce they provide. Turkey is great
MP
mac the plumber
Nov 8, 2025
1.0
I really used to enjoy eating here. But lately their prices have gotten out of control. I just went through the drive through and got a chopped brisket sandwich, a pint of potato salad, two pieces of Texas toast and a Dr pepper. It cost $24. To make matters even better there's a tip line. Why on earth would I need to tip with prices like that? You guys aren't paying your employees $30/hour? Based on your prices you can afford to. Or do they just make terrible wages and the business keeps the rest and opts for the tip line so they can guilt customers into financing the salaries?
Used to be a place I could take my son and have lunch and be out for less than $24. Now it's 40-50 if I bring him. What has this place become? Just a corporate money grab?
Unfortunately that'll be the last time I go to one of your restaurants. Your prices are obscenely high.
I never thought I'd have a negative thing to say about this place. But look what ripping off your customers buys you. And remove that tip line you greedy people. Pay your workers a better wage, you are charging steak house prices.
Van's Pig Stands is open every day from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
What types of meals does Van's Pig Stands serve?
Van's Pig Stands serves lunch and dinner meals.
Does Van's Pig Stands offer catering or delivery services?
Yes, Van's Pig Stands offers catering, delivery, and pick up services.
What is Van's Pig Stands known for?
Van's Pig Stands is known for its barbecue, including the Pig Sandwich®, ribs, brisket, pulled pork, hot links, sweet tea, and banana pudding.
What is the dress code at Van's Pig Stands?
The dress code at Van's Pig Stands is casual.
Is Van's Pig Stands family-friendly and accessible?
Yes, Van's Pig Stands welcomes families and children, has a children's menu, wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, parking, and restrooms.
What payment options are accepted at Van's Pig Stands?
Van's Pig Stands accepts American Express, Cash, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa.
Where is Van's Pig Stands located?
Van's Pig Stands is located at 320 N Porter St., Norman, OK 73071, USA.
Are there any nearby public transportation options to Van's Pig Stands?
Customers can use the Greyhound Bus Stop at North Porter Superette or the Greyhound Bus station nearby for convenient public transportation to Van's Pig Stands.
What other local businesses are near Van's Pig Stands that customers might find useful?
Nearby businesses include Dave's Healthmart Pharmacy for health needs, Posh Pets Grooming Center for pet services, and Design 2000 Flowers & Gifts for gifts and floral arrangements, making it convenient for customers to run multiple errands in the area.
Are there other dining options close to Van's Pig Stands?
Yes, nearby dining options include Boomarang Diner for American and burger fare and Taqueria Express La Villita for fast food Mexican cuisine, ideal if you're exploring local eats before or after visiting Van's Pig Stands.