Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, Pigs Eatin’ Ribs has become a culinary staple for barbecue enthusiasts and event planners alike. What began as a single food truck in 2012 has blossomed into a renowned smokehouse-style restaurant and mobile catering service, offering authentic, slow-smoked meats and Southern-inspired dishes that have garnered a loyal following.
A Flavorful Journey from Food Truck to Smokehouse
The story of Pigs Eatin’ Ribs is rooted in passion and dedication. Chef Adam Kline, alongside his wife Jill, embarked on their barbecue journey with a single food truck, serving up smoky delights at local events and festivals. Their commitment to quality and flavor quickly gained attention, leading to the expansion of their fleet and the establishment of a brick-and-mortar location in Charlevoix, Michigan.
Their philosophy is simple yet profound: “From our smoker to your plate.” This mantra reflects their dedication to using the finest ingredients, smoking meats low and slow with 100% fruit wood, and ensuring every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail.
A Menu That Celebrates the Art of BBQ
Pigs Eatin’ Ribs offers a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes, all while staying true to their Southern roots. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
Signature Meats
- St. Louis Style Ribs: Tender and flavorful, these ribs are smoked to perfection and served with a choice of sides.
- Pulled Pork: Slow-cooked and seasoned with a blend of spices, resulting in juicy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Brisket: Smoked low and slow, this cut is rich in flavor and pairs beautifully with their house-made sauces.
- House-Made Sausage: Crafted in-house, these sausages offer a unique twist on traditional BBQ fare.
- Double Smoked Ham: A nod to classic Southern BBQ, this ham is smoked to enhance its natural flavors.: Tender and flavorful, these ribs are smoked to perfection and served with a choice of sides.
- Smoked Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, their smoked chicken is a crowd favorite.
Tasty Sides
Complementing their meats are a variety of sides, including:
- Creamy Coleslaw
- Mac N’ Cheese
- Pit Roasted Baked Beans
- Waffle Fries
- Blue Cheese Jalapeno Slaw
- Grandma’s Potato Salad
- Tomato Cucumber Salad
- Pickled Pepper Slaw
Unique Offerings
- Piglets: Kid-friendly meals like chicken fingers, grilled cheese, and BBQ sandwiches.
- Big Pig Party Packs: Perfect for gatherings, these packs include meats, sides, buns, and sauces.
- Floats: Delicious combinations of Northwood soda topped with Moomers ice cream, such as Root Beer Float and Chocolate Covered Cherry.
- Specialty Sandwiches & Tacos: Options like the “Snortin’ Boar” and “Smoked Fish Tacos” offer unique flavors.
Catering That Elevates Any Event
Beyond their restaurant and food trucks, Pigs Eatin’ Ribs excels in catering services. Their team specializes in on-site cooking, transforming any location into a BBQ haven. Whether it’s a wedding reception, corporate event, graduation party, or backyard picnic, they offer customizable menus to suit any occasion.
Their catering services include:
- Whole Hog Roasts
- Ribs, Chicken, Brisket, and Sausage
- Appetizers, Sides, and Desserts
- Professional Service Staff
- Real China Plates, Silverware, and Linen Napkins
- Beverage Service
Clients have praised their attention to detail and the quality of the food, with many noting that the BBQ served at their events exceeded expectations.
A Commitment to Community and Quality
Pigs Eatin’ Ribs isn’t just about great food; it’s about building relationships and giving back to the community. They actively participate in local events and support various charitable causes, reinforcing their commitment to Northern Michigan.
Their dedication to quality is evident in every aspect of their business, from the sourcing of ingredients to the smoking process. By using 100% fruit wood and smoking meats low and slow, they ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
Customer Testimonials
Customers consistently praise Pigs Eatin’ Ribs for their exceptional food and service:
“We used PER Catering for my dad’s retirement party. From start to finish everything was exceptional! Everyone raved about the food and we had plenty of leftovers! Communication was great from when we booked and until the day of. Thank you for making my dad’s celebration one we will never forget!” – Lauren B., Google Review
“One of the best BBQ places you’ll find in an area that you would not expect to find good BBQ. I’ve had brisket all over the country and the brisket here is above most every place I’ve tried.” – Bruce W., Google Review
“Food….. 5 star. Some of best ribs around. Service…. 4 star. Always been good. Atmosphere 0 star. Store is closed I really wish they would open back up.”
Plan Your Visit or Event
Pigs Eatin’ Ribs operates a seasonal restaurant in Charlevoix, Michigan, and offers mobile catering services throughout Northern Michigan. To learn more about their menu, catering options, or to book an event, visit their website at www.pigseatinribs.com.
For catering inquiries, contact them at (231) 330-4160 or email pitmasters@pigseatinribs.com.
Whether you’re planning a special event or simply craving some of the best BBQ in Northern Michigan, Pigs Eatin’ Ribs is ready to serve up a memorable experience.