The Porkette
Fresh Take on BBQ in Pickens
After spending many years in engineering, Chris Durham decided it was time for something new. Following a conversation with his cousin, Larry Looper, Chris took over The Parkette in 2022.
Larry had managed The Parkette for over 30 years after inheriting it from the Finley Family, who had originally opened it near The Washette Laundromat to serve the community of Pickens.
Unique Fusion of Flavors
Now rebranded as The Porkette, this BBQ restaurant stands out with its unique blend of Texas Style BBQ infused with a Carolina twist, plus a side of wildness. Chris Durham, a retired IBM engineer with a passion for BBQ, has transformed the place, bringing his knowledge from Texas and adding innovative fusion dishes to the menu.
“What makes us different? We offer Texas Style BBQ with a Carolina Twist, plus a side of wildness. We offer fusion dishes, as well as BBQ, such as Cajun Étouffée, Haitian Food, Southern Comfort, Cowboy Egg Rolls, and many more,” says Chris.
Menu Highlights
The Porkette’s basic menu includes staples like Pulled Pork, Baby Back Ribs, and Smoked Chicken Wings, accompanied by classic sides such as Baked Beans, Slaw, Collards, Fries, and Okra.
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But it’s the unexpected additions that truly set The Porkette apart. From smoked meat egg rolls to smoked shrimp and étouffée, the menu often surprises and delights diners, keeping them coming back for more.
For instance, how about BBQ Lasagna?
“Our basic menu stays the same (Pulled Pork, Baby Back Ribs, Smoked Chicken Wings, with sides Baked Beans, Slaw, Collards, Fries and Okra, etc.) but a touch of the unknown always enters the day’s menu. We may keep you guessing, but we’ll keep you coming back,” Chris emphasizes.
Visit The Porkette
The Porkette operates Wednesday to Friday from 11 am to 2 pm, Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm, and serves dinner on Friday and Saturday from 5 pm to 9 pm. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or someone looking to try something new, The Porkette offers a unique dining experience that blends tradition with innovation, all while honoring the legacy of The Parkette.
For those planning their next BBQ outing, a visit to The Porkette in Pickens promises not just a meal, but an adventure in flavors.
What Folks Are Saying
Google Review
Among the many Google Reviews, Lindsay M gives The Porkette top marks across the board:
This is the best barbecue I’ve had in a really long time. We’re from out of town and stopped here for lunch. Service was 11/10, smoked wings were perfect, ribs were great. Get the chicken and dumplings for a nice warm-hug feeling. PS they sell the dry rub
Vegetarian options: Sides were great for vegetarian options
Dietary restrictions: They were great with my dairy allergy. They make everything in house / from scratch so they knew exactly what goes into their food
Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
Recommended dishes Pulled Pork & Ribs
Facebook Review
Over on Facebook, Kimberly Mattison shared that she and her husband found great food and service at The Porkette:
Absolutely fantastic BBQ! Husband and I had ribs, pulled pork sandwich, fries, baked beans, and onion rings. Fries and rings were CRISPY, and they were the best baked beans I’ve ever had… Service is exceptional. Will definitely be back
- Professional staff
- Delicious food
- Great value
Sample Menu for The Porkette
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant for the most up-to-date information.
Location, Hours, Contact Info, and More
Map
Directions
Hours of Operation
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Social Media
Review Sites
Features
Cards and Cash, Heavy Tomato Sauce, Mustard Sauce, Vinegar Pepper Sauce