Amy Matthews and her sisters were all former teachers before taking a leap into the food business. Raised on a dairy farm, Matthews said they learned the value of hard work early on.
“We grew up with that work ethic,” Matthews said. “A dairy farm is nonstop, seven days a week—you don’t have a choice.”
Pecan-Smoked Meats and Homemade Sides
At Smokin’ Sisters in Wagoner, everything starts with the smoker. Brisket, pork butt, turkey and sausage are smoked low and slow over pecan wood until tender and juicy.
Inside, it’s the homemade sides that steal the show: creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, slow-cooked baked beans and double-fried hand-cut fries. Matthews said the menu was inspired by the kind of food her family made growing up.
“I really try and focus on the homemade sides,” Matthews said. “You go to any backyard barbecue, and what are you really there for? The sides.”
Creative Dishes and Local Favorites
While the smoked meats are the foundation, the restaurant isn’t afraid to have fun with its menu. Favorites include the BBQ Frito Pie, Brisket Grilled Cheese and the Mack Potato — a loaded baked potato topped with macaroni and cheese.
A Family Effort With a Purpose
Matthews and her son run the day-to-day operations at the Main Street location, while her sister manages their to-go site. She said the best part of owning the business is watching her family — including her grandson — pitch in.
“Everyone gets to be here and help,” Matthews said. “Even though we’re working long hours, everyone can be part of it.”
That family connection extends to the community. As a fourth-generation Wagoner resident, Matthews said keeping the business downtown was intentional.
“This community means a lot to us,” Matthews said. “We wanted to be here to help bring Wagoner’s downtown back.”
Dining and Cooking