About Us

The Mean Pig BBQ is proud to be your home for community BBQ in Cabot, AR, where flavor, family, and tradition come together. For over 27 years, we’ve been serving up mouthwatering, hickory-smoked BBQ that’s become a staple in the hearts (and stomachs) of our community. And as a family-owned BBQ restaurant, we’re proud to be more than just a restaurant: we’re a gathering place for friends, family, and neighbors, and we’ve made it our mission to support our community in more ways than one.

A Family Legacy Built on BBQ

The story of The Mean Pig BBQ is one that’s deeply rooted in family and tradition. Our journey began in 1997, and for Chad Merritt, our current owner, it’s a journey that started even earlier. Chad has been involved with the restaurant since he was just eleven years old, learning the ropes in the kitchen and absorbing the passion that his family poured into every classic BBQ dish.

Though running a BBQ joint wasn’t Chad’s original plan, it didn’t take long for him to realize that The Mean Pig was about more than just BBQ—it was about community. Over the years, we’ve become part of countless family celebrations, milestones, and traditions. From welcoming newborns with a family meal to hosting birthday parties and graduations, we’ve been there for it all.

One thing is for certain: our customers are family. As Chad says, “We’ve seen kids grow up, go through school, and now those same kids are coming back with their own families.” That’s the kind of loyalty and connection that keeps us going day after day.

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Community Support:

More Than Just a Meal

At The Mean Pig BBQ, we believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for so many years. Each Thanksgiving, we organize meal baskets for families in need, a tradition that’s close to our hearts. We take nominations from the community and put together meals to ensure that families can celebrate the holiday with a hearty meal, no matter their circumstances. Last year, we provided 15 meals, and we’re always looking for ways to expand our outreach.

We’re also passionate supporters of The CALL, a local organization dedicated to caring for children and teens in foster care. This cause is especially important to Chad’s wife, Audrey, who plays an active role in the effort. Through our partnership, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these children and their families.

But our community involvement doesn’t stop there. Inside our restaurant, you’ll find a meal board—a simple but powerful way for patrons to support those in need. Anyone can purchase a meal and leave the ticket on the board for someone who might need it. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference, and we’re proud to provide meals to individuals and families who may otherwise go without.

A Family-Run Business:

More Than Just BBQ

Running The Mean Pig BBQ is a family affair, and we couldn’t do it without the dedication of our incredible team. Audrey, who once famously said, “I don’t do barbecue,” has become the heart and soul of the operation. She’s not only involved in the day-to-day aspects of the restaurant but also serves as the unofficial “work mom” to our staff. With a background in therapy, Audrey is there to provide both personal and professional support, ensuring that our team feels cared for and valued.

Our restaurant also wouldn’t be what it is today without the close-knit bond we’ve built with our staff. We work hard to create a welcoming, positive environment where our employees feel like part of the family. This personal touch translates into everything we do, from the way we prepare our food to the way we treat our customers.

A Flavor That Speaks for Itself

When people talk about The Mean Pig BBQ, they’re often talking about one thing: the flavor. Our signature dishes are crafted using time-honored BBQ techniques, with each piece of meat slow-cooked over hickory wood to perfection. The result is tender, juicy pork, beef, and ribs that are bursting with rich, smoky flavor.

Of course, no conversation about The Mean Pig BBQ would be complete without mentioning our infamous “Shut Up Juice.” This fiery habanero-based BBQ sauce has become the stuff of legend, and it’s not for the faint of heart. Our Shut Up Juice Challenge has drawn heat-seekers from far and wide, with only a small percentage of participants ever successfully completing the challenge. It’s a rite of passage for true, authentic BBQ lovers, and we’re proud to be the only place in Cabot where you can experience it.

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An NFIB-Recognized Business

We’re honored to be an NFIB recognized business in Cabot, AR, a testament to the hard work and dedication that has gone into building The Mean Pig BBQ over the years. This recognition isn’t just about the success of our business—it’s about the impact we’ve had on our community and the relationships we’ve built along the way. We’re incredibly grateful to our loyal customers and the Cabot community for their ongoing support.

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Looking Ahead:
The Future of The Mean Pig BBQ

As we look to the future, we’re excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. While we remain focused on maintaining the legacy we’ve built, we’re also exploring opportunities to expand our reach. Chad has big dreams of opening two or three more locations, ensuring that more people can enjoy the authentic, community-driven BBQ experience that has made The Mean Pig BBQ a local favorite. But no matter where we go, one thing will always remain the same: our commitment to serving the best BBQ, supporting our community, and treating every customer like family.

Join Us for True Community BBQ

At The Mean Pig BBQ, you’re not just another customer—you’re part of our story. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve been with us since the beginning, we’re here to make sure you have an unforgettable experience every time you walk through our doors. So come by and enjoy a meal, share a memory, and be part of the community that has made us who we are. From our family to yours, welcome to The Mean Pig BBQ—where great BBQ and great people come together. We look forward to serving you soon!

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