Van's Pig Stand

"A close view of Van's ribs gives a good sense of their textural delight. The big rib dinner is one full pound -- 5 to 9 ribs. The regular dinner is 3/4 pound and the junior dinner is 1/2 pound -- 2 to 4 ribs. With the meat you get two side dishes and a slab of Texas toast."
Michael Stern






"Van's has been serving pig sandwiches for more than three-quarters of a century. It remains one of the essential barbecue parlors between Memphis and Oklahoma City."
Michael Stern



"The name "pig sandwich" has been trademarked by Van's. This close-up shows how chunky the pork is. You can also see hints of the excellent relish the kitchen adds to the formula."
Michael Stern



"Curlie Q fries are available as one of the two side dishes you get with dinner, or as a large order unto themselves, for $1.95. These are some grand potatoes!"
Michael Stern



"Old-fashioned graffiti covers the wood backs of Van's booths."
Michael Stern



"It is said that the Vanized potato was invented when grandma Vandergrif decided she didn't want to waste baked potatoes that went unordered at dinner time. This twice-baked beauty is mixed with little bits of bacon."
Michael Stern



"Here is the oldest barbecue in Oklahoma. That sign next to the pig for the "Charcoal Room" refers to a somewhat more refined dining area ... but where the menu is pure Van's."
Michael Stern