Big Pig Canteen is an American barbeque joint and a breath of fresh air (or is that smoky?) in semi-industrial Moorabbin. Owners Christy Humphreys and Eamonn James were inspired by stories of New York’s bustling barbeque scene including Fette Sau, a barbeque hot spot in Brooklyn.
The no-frills warehouse features timber booths and long tables, anchored by a large bar that’s reminiscent of a saloon. There’s also an adjoining dog-friendly beer garden that’s equipped for all weather scenarios.
Behind the scenes, the smokers pump out all your classic barbeque favourites. Traditionalists will find comfort in the classics of smoked brisket, smoked pulled pork and Southern fried chicken. Order them standalone or in a share-friendly platter with the usual suspects like cornbread, coleslaw, mac and cheese and pickles. There are also moreish burgers; loaded fries and nachos; and a few vegan options. Its signature two-hander is the Bransky burger. It’s a combo of sliced beef brisket, cheese kransky, coleslaw, barbeque sauce, chipotle mayo, pickles and jalapenos. A bucket-list burger if there ever was one.
The well-stocked bar features local beers, such as Bright Brewery, to go with your meats. And for non-beer drinkers, there’s a decent line-up of spirits, cocktails, and local and imported wines.
