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 brisket and ribs while others found them dry or overcooked.
Service
Service quality varied; some customers highlighted friendly staff and good service, while others reported rude interactions and slow service.
Pricing
Many customers felt the prices were high for the quality of food received, with several mentioning disappointment in portion sizes.
Cleanliness
Concerns raised about cleanliness, including dirty tables and lack of utensils.
NM
Nathan S Madsen
Jan 1, 2026
2.0
I've been to Van's before but the food was just very bland and poorly done this time. Not recommended, especially for the price. The crew was friendly and the atmosphere was fine. Just wish the BBQ was better.
KP
Ketan Patel
Dec 30, 2025
5.0
Amazing sandwhich and fries are the best!!
MI
Michelle Inman
Dec 20, 2025
2.0
Came and got 2 loaded baked potatoes. One pork, one chopped beef. Potato half done, chopped beef so dry and hard they put all the condiments in container with the warm potato melted the tiny cup of cheese (clumped now), asked for green onions, got chopped onions that looked like last weeks. So this $37.oo for 2 baked potatoes was terrible. This has happened twice now. Put your condiments separately from the food. Rehydrate your chopped meats. Worst BBQ
AC
Amanda Cook
Dec 18, 2025
1.0
Teach your drive throw people to use the headset lol
ST
Shane and Wendy Thomas
Dec 17, 2025
5.0
Excellent food especially hot links looking for good bbq they have it.
Van's Pig Stands was founded by Leroy “Van” Vandegrift, who began serving barbecue in 1928 in Wewoka, Oklahoma. The Shawnee location opened in 1930 and moved to its current location in 1935.
What are the operating hours of Van's Pig Stands in Shawnee, OK?
Van's Pig Stands is open Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
What type of cuisine does Van's Pig Stands offer?
Van's Pig Stands offers barbecue cuisine including brisket, ribs, pulled pork, hot links, and desserts like banana pudding and rum pie.
Does Van's Pig Stands offer catering and delivery services?
Yes, Van's Pig Stands provides catering, pick up, and delivery services for their customers.
What payment options are accepted at Van's Pig Stands?
Van's Pig Stands accepts American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.
Is Van's Pig Stands family-friendly and accessible?
Yes, Van's Pig Stands welcomes families and children, has wheelchair accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and offers a children's menu.
Where is Van's Pig Stands located in Shawnee, Oklahoma?
Van's Pig Stands is located at 3815 N Harrison St, Shawnee, OK 74804.
Are there any notable nearby places to Van's Pig Stands in Shawnee?
Yes, notable nearby places include Edward Jones - Financial Advisor: Michael P Garbutt, Fresenius Kidney Care, and Factory Direct Mattress & Furniture.
How can nearby businesses help visitors to Van's Pig Stands?
Visitors can combine a meal at Van's Pig Stands with other activities such as shopping at Vintage Alley Boutique & Gifts or getting services from Foundations Therapy nearby.
Are there other dining options close to Van's Pig Stands?
Yes, nearby dining options include Cazadorez Mexican Restaurant and DeGraff's Restaurant & Tavern for a variety of meal choices.