A neighbor of SMU, Peggy Sue BBQ’s reputation and history go hand in hand with that of the university’s. Located at 6600 Snider Plaza, Peggy Sue BBQ marks the start of the significant shopping strip, proclaimed as one of the oldest in America. The exterior agrees with the center’s historic look, embellished with original 1950s touches.
Maroon and white paint create an interesting color combination that hides the cinder blocks beneath. The original letters paired with new ones to complete the restaurant’s name still grace the facade of the building. By design, parking is available directly in front of the restaurant, allowing customers easy access to the shops.
The nostalgic feel continues inside Peggy Sue BBQ, transporting all ages to a classic barbecue diner. The tables and chairs date back to the restaurant’s beginnings, as does some of the artwork on the walls. Green and red are perfect accents to the overall rustic theme of the interior. These colors are found in the overhead lighting, checkerboard tablecloths and original air-conditioning unit. Old pictures and photographs are found throughout the restaurant, legitimizing the ’50s style. The ceiling is also dated, unfortunately due to ceiling tiles that go against Peggy Sue’s rural motif. Both cozy and comfortable, the restaurant is split into two main dining rooms and a bar that opened in 1998 which seats up to 30 guests. Popular oldies music and good lighting solidify the unique experience.
The site in Snider Plaza was first home to a Sin Clair Gas Station before the couple Peggy and Howard decided to start a restaurant. In 1948 the restaurant opened as Peggy and Howard’s Beef Bar. The restaurant was one-third of its current size in the ’50s, growing to a second room some time after. Peggy and Howard’s Beef Bar offered a cafeteria-style section for some time before deciding to incorporate it into the full-service restaurant.
The basic shell of the structure still has remained intact, despite the numerous additions and changes. The restaurant eventually closed in 1989, leaving room for the current owner to purchase the property and reinstate the barbecue tradition. Although the original Peggy is not in the picture, the restaurant still bears her name, with the addition of the owner’s wife’s name, Sue.
The restaurant is also known for its inexpensive food, which is smoked and prepared fresh on location every time. The baby back ribs are Peggy Sue’s best-kept secret, seasoned and marinated perfectly. The chopped brisket sandwich and the Piggy Soo provide tender meat. The restaurant is also popular because of its wide variety of vegetable choices, supplying the right combination for everyone. The fried pies are perfect for dessert, available in many flavors ranging from chocolate to apricot.
Although Peggy Sue BBQ has avoided widespread publicity, its success and following in the community is something special. Many of SMU’s events are catered by Peggy Sue, including occasions from receptions to athletic games. Not only does the restaurant cater toward the university, the owners Mark and Susan are both SMU graduates. With its convenient location, affordable prices and historic ties with the university, any student who has not tried Peggy Sue BBQ is surely missing out on a local tradition.
