In the spirit of legendary pitmasters, where tradition and flavor intertwine, Blane Hunter's Porky Butts BBQ stands as a testament to resilience and culinary excellence. This week marks a momentous milestone—the fifth anniversary of Porky Butts BBQ in Omaha, Nebraska.
Where: 15475 Ruggles St, Omaha, NE 68116
When: Friday, August 9th
Time: Festivities start at 10:00. Doors open at 11:00.
It's a celebration steeped in history, family legacy, and the smoky allure of perfectly seasoned meat. As the community gathers to honor this landmark, one figure looms larger than life: "Old Silver," the venerable pit smoker built in the 1980s by Marty Hunter, Blane's late father and a revered figure in Texas BBQ.
The Legacy of Old Silver
A Nod to the Past with Lemon Pepper Chicken
When you speak of BBQ legends in Texas, the Hunter name commands respect. Marty Hunter, was renowned for his lemon pepper chicken, a dish that has become emblematic of the family's BBQ prowess.
To honor his father, Blane Hunter will fire up Old Silver once more, this time smoking lemon pepper chicken thighs in the parking lot of Porky Butts BBQ. The switch from chicken halves to thighs—due to difficulties in sourcing chicken halves—evokes a sense of nostalgia for Blane. He fondly recalls his father buying chicken at a mere 10 cents per pound, a stark contrast to today's soaring food costs.
Old Silver, with its storied past and legendary status, holds a special place in the hearts of the Hunter family and the community. Built in the 1980s, this pit smoker symbolizes the dedication and craftsmanship that Marty Hunter instilled in his son. It's not just a piece of equipment; it's a cherished heirloom, a bridge connecting past and present.
Challenges and Triumphs
Navigating the BBQ Business Through Adversity
The journey of Porky Butts BBQ has been one of remarkable success, yet not without its hurdles. The last five years have seen Blane and his team weathering economic storms, from the devastating impacts of COVID-19 on the restaurant industry to the ongoing struggle of securing affordable, high-quality ingredients. Blane acknowledges these challenges, emphasizing the importance of his dedicated pit crew and strategic partners in steering the ship through rough waters.
Adapting to these challenges has required resilience and ingenuity. Blane and his team have had to navigate fluctuating food costs and supply chain disruptions while maintaining the high standards that their patrons expect. The support from the community and the unwavering commitment of the Porky Butts BBQ team have been crucial in overcoming these obstacles.
Image Credit: Craig McPeck/Omaha Food Magazine
Fusion BBQ: A Culinary Revolution
Omaha’s Unexpected Love for Fusion BBQ
One of the surprising twists in Porky Butts BBQ’s story is the overwhelming reception of fusion BBQ. Blane admits he underestimated Omaha's appetite for innovative flavor combinations. Specials like the Pork Bahn Mi and Pastrami Burnt Ends have sold out quickly and become fan favorites, showcasing the city's adventurous palate. This fusion of traditional BBQ with global influences has set Porky Butts BBQ apart, cementing its reputation as a culinary trailblazer.
Blane's innovative approach to BBQ has been a game-changer. By blending traditional BBQ techniques with diverse flavors, he has created a unique dining experience that resonates with a wide audience. The Pork Bahn Mi, with its blend of Vietnamese flavors and smoky pork, and the Pastrami Burnt Ends, a nod to classic deli meats, are testaments to his creative vision.
Image Credit: Omaha Food Magazine
A Community Celebration
$5 Brisket Sandwiches: A Token of Gratitude
In a gesture of gratitude to the community that has embraced and supported him, Blane will be serving his world-famous brisket sandwiches for just $5 each throughout the anniversary celebration. It's a small but heartfelt way to thank the people of Omaha for their unwavering support of Porky Butts BBQ. The event promises to be a day of great food, camaraderie, and a shared love for exceptional BBQ.
The decision to offer $5 brisket sandwiches is not just a promotional tactic; it's a sincere expression of thanks. Blane knows that without the loyal support of his customers, Porky Butts BBQ wouldn't be the success it is today. This celebration is as much about the community as it is about the restaurant's achievements. Image Credit: Craig McPeck/Omaha Food Magazine
Continuing the Legacy and Expanding Horizons
As Porky Butts BBQ looks to the future, Blane Hunter remains committed to honoring his father's legacy while also pushing the boundaries of what restaurant BBQ can be. With a loyal following and a reputation for excellence, the next chapter promises exciting innovations and continued dedication to the craft. The story of Porky Butts BBQ is far from over; it’s a narrative of tradition, community, and the relentless pursuit of sweety-smoky perfection.
Blane's vision for the future is clear: continue to innovate while staying true to the core principles that have made Porky Butts BBQ a beloved Omaha restaurant. This means experimenting with new flavors and techniques, engaging with the community, and always striving to be the best. The legacy of Marty Hunter lives on in every dish, every smoke ring, and every satisfied customer.
Mark Your Calendars for the Porky Butts 5-Year BBQ Bash!
This Friday, join us for a day of celebration as we commemorate five incredible years of BBQ mastery. The festivities kick off at 10 AM with Blane cooking up some mouthwatering lemon pepper chicken right in the parking lot. At 11 AM, the doors open for a feast like no other, featuring $5 brisket sandwiches all day long. It’s going to be a fantastic day filled with great food and amazing company. See you there!
