Pigmans Bar-B-Que — A Kill Devil Hills Barbecue Landmark

1606 South Croatan Hwy, Mile Post 9.5, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
252-441-6803

About

Bill Shaver established Pigman’s Bar-B-Que in late 1985 to grow his seasonal country ham shop. His affection for his pet pig, Piggy Lou, earned him the nickname “The Pigman,” and his exotic animals and flavorful barbeque became central to the legacy he built.

The restaurant began with Bill experimenting with BBQ recipes and offering lunch to ham-shop customers. As the recipes improved, word spread and visitors came from across the region to try The Pigman’s creation.

A skilled cook and an especially capable marketer, Bill launched Pigman’s Bar-B-Que as a separate restaurant. In 1991, Shaver constructed a new location in a prominent spot at the heart of Kill Devil Hills. The wood-framed building was made to evoke a country farmhouse, while Bill’s collection of pets—including two potbelly pigs—helped entertain visitors and children outside.

The animals are no longer part of the property, but the interior retains a country-house character, with fine woods and southern flavor shaping the décor and atmosphere.

Amenities

Dining

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Gluten Free Options
• Outdoor Dining

General

• Work w/Motorcoach Groups in Senior/Student Markets

Customer Reviews

Yelp presents 451 reviews. The featured reviewers include Doug M. (07/31/2026), Denise M. (05/08/2026), and Richard H. (04/11/2026). Their feedback highlights the BBQ, smoked tuna, pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, pulled chicken, hush puppy bites, pronounced smoke flavor, service, local décor, and ambiance. One review also mentions a 10 percent coupon for tourists and describes the restaurant as a particularly strong BBQ destination in OBX.