Cackle & Oink BBQ — Restaurant in Sherman

Quick review summary- don’t go here during peak eating hours unless you are with a large group as the seating is privatized based on number of people in the party.

Today was our second visit and even though the food is good it is pretty expensive ($18.25 per person for sliced beef sandwich, two sides and a drink) we were extremely disappointed in the seating availability. Although there are multiple signs that say “no holding tables” and a sign at the entrance asking patrons to be respectful of this in front of them when taking tables, we were left waiting for a table - not because they were crazy busy- but because a large group came in after us and, while we all waited in line to order the owner pulled tables together for them. When I asked about those tables I was told they were being held for the group behind us. The only saving grace for Cackle and Oink today is their sweet employee Harmony who was so kind and polite working quickly to ensure that we got a clean table as quickly as possible. She is also the only one who apologized for the wait while the owner just had the kitchen “put a hold on the order” until we could get a table… While I am sure that the owner was trying to be kind to the group that came in behind us, he should probably rethink leaving only the high top tables that have backless stools for patrons as they are not really suitable for his 80+ year old diners or for families with young children. Next time, if the large group is all younger than 60 with no small children, maybe they should get...

Visiting from Florida for brother's birthday, he made sure we made a stop at Cackle and Oink!! Boy,was I thrilled! Cute,casual great stop that was filling quickly with lunch locals. Very clean throughout and great decor inside. The owner, Aaron- a prize winning barbeque winner, recognized my brother right away! Very nice, he took the time to say hello and chat a bit. I had to order the brother-recommended chicken sandwich,green beans and jalapeno cornbread. Food was ready prompty and brought over by a nice ,tall, slender man. (I'm sorry I didn't get his name.) The chicken was the best sandwich! You could pretty much east with no teeth! Man...little bro was right about the green beans! Just the best I've ever tasted!! Hey, Aaron...please give Dan the secret!! I won't tell. Enjoyed the cornbread, but would've preferred more beans! The server checked on everyone and kept the place super clean. So nice that the owner got a break and was kind enough to sit and talk with us with no rush in his tone. Apparantly, they have some other "to-die-fors": brisket chili and lasagne banana pudding!! Wish ya'll were closer!! Aaron, keep feeding those Bond boys and winning more trophies! Prices are reasonable for what you get; service is great and restrooms totally clean....

I’ve eaten at Cackle & Oink a few times and always been pleased by their food.  They make a really nice sausage; the jalapeno one is my personal favorite.  I also really like their pork ribs.  The brisket is also solid.

As far as sides, the baked beans, potato salad, and jalapeno cornbread are all quite good.  I also like that they have a variety of sauces; my favorites are the Plano and Sweet Willie.

I cannot personally speak for the desserts, but I’ve been tempted to try by the reactions I’ve seen from other patrons.  (Typically it's someone trying to mumble, “Oh my God, this is incredible” past a mouthful of pie.)

I also really like their staff.  Each time I’ve visited, the people behind the counter seemed genuinely glad to see me and were happy to make suggestions as to what I should try next.  (Thanks Rom and Cassidy!)  I’ve also chatted with D’Lanie about football and some of the restaurant’s history.  And lest I leave anyone out, Wes did give me a friendly wave from the back.  Cackle & Oink has a great, welcoming vibe that makes you want to come back.

So if you’re looking for a BBQ place with good food and a pleasant atmosphere, definitely check...