The Dixie Pig, a beloved barbecue institution in Blytheville, is celebrating a century of family tradition – and newfound regional recognition. The restaurant was featured on an episode of Arkansas PBS's *Taste Buds*, which won a Mid-America Emmy Award for its storytelling about the Mississippi County staple.

Founded in 1923, the Dixie Pig has been owned and managed by the same family for three generations. Becky Westbrook, sister of current owner Bob Halsell, reflected on the longevity of their business and the family bond at its core.

"Our grandfather started our BBQ business in 1923 and carried it through," Westbrook said. "My father took it over after he passed, and when my father passed, Bob took it over. It’s just a real special thing for us. It’s almost like a time capsule."

The restaurant, well-known for its traditional recipes, has remained largely unchanged over the decades. According to Westbrook, this consistency is part of its unique charm. "A lot of the people that were raised here move away and then come back excited," she explained. "They hadn’t been here in so many years, and it’s almost like coming to your grandmother’s house because it never changes."

For locals, the Dixie Pig carries deep cultural significance. "I grew up here in Mississippi County. I’m 42 years old and I have memories as a child coming to the Dixie Pig," said Tyler Dunegan, who handles marketing for the restaurant. "It’s just a rite of passage. You grow up in Mississippi County; you eat Mississippi County barbecue."

Producer Kevin Clark, who created the Emmy-winning feature for *Taste Buds*, highlighted the restaurant’s role as an enduring symbol of community pride. Dunegan agreed, noting that the statewide recognition has helped showcase the positive aspects of the region. "Having this feature on Arkansas TV through PBS was huge just to get the awareness out around the state," Dunegan said. "A small mom-and-pop restaurant, third generation, right here in Mississippi County – where people are often downing the town and the community – shows that we have good things going for us here."

Owner and manager Bob Halsell credits the restaurant’s resilience to honoring his family’s roots and focusing on quality. "We’ve been here for 103 years, so that says a whole lot about the type of food we put out and the quality,” Halsell said. "It makes a big difference. We haven’t changed anything."

The Dixie Pig’s commitment to tradition and its enduring connection with customers illustrate the lasting impact of family and community in Northeast Arkansas.