Business & Tech

Two Brothers Smokes Up Authentic BBQ

The cozy stand and three grills are located in a parking lot off Thoms Run Road in Presto.

People living in western Pennsylvania don’t seem to be as passionate about authentic barbeque as those living in other regions of the country.

But J.P. Mackovich is working to change that by smoking up barbeque recipes that keep hungry customers coming back for more.

Mackovich’s Two Brothers Bar-B-Q stand has created quite a following with its cozy stand and three grills located in a parking lot off Thoms Run Road across from the Presto Volunteer Fire Department.

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“This place has a pretty big following, obviously, if it’s been here as long as it has,” Mackovich said. “The connection we have with the people is different than a lot of other places.”

He credits that to taking the time to produce tasty meals that aren’t just fast food off the grill. He said many people are used to having something slapped onto their plate in a matter of seconds. But the key to good barbeque is in the preparation.

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From the unique dishes on the menu to friendly service, Two Brothers fills a dining niche that isn’t found in many other places around the area.

“Barbeque is not an institution in Pittsburgh like it is in the south,” Mackovich said.

But that doesn’t mean people don’t love it. The large pile of wood next to the three enormous smoker grills add to the charm of an outdoor restaurant that always has a line of people waiting to order.

Mackovich and his brother, who sold his share in the restaurant, began “cutting their teeth” on barbeque by going to various rib cook-offs or county fairs. That turned into a full-time restaurant at the current location about five years ago and has expanded to a catering service.

The barbeque stand is open rain or shine Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“Rain doesn’t make a difference. They’ll still stand out there waiting to order,” Mackovich said. “Some of them, they’re possessed. But it’s great to feel that you’re part of the community and wanted.”

Two Brothers will partner with Presto firefighters to hold a pulled pork cook-off at its location in July. The event is expected to draw about 25 contestants.


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