Shane & Allyson Wiggins––Deuce's Taste of the South

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of the small Louisianna town of Broussard, where the scent of barbecue often melds with the warm southern air, you'll find Deuce's Taste of the South. This hidden culinary gem is the brainchild of Shane and Allyson Wiggins. Today, we delve deep into their journey from a family butcher shop and a homemade barbecue sauce to a restaurant mastering the art of Texas-style BBQ.

A Family Affair

Growing up, Shane was no stranger to the world of food. To be precise, he hails from a family with a legacy in the culinary scene—a butcher shop and a restaurant in the town of Normangee, Texas. Shane never knew his grandparents who started it all, but their influence permeated his early life. His father carried on the family trade, even as the landscape of their hometown evolved.  Shane and Allyson’s legacy will carry on through their kids—Together, they have five children: Anthony, their late son Tyler, Samatha, Savanna, and Shelby, and two beautiful grandchildren, Addicen and Aubreigh.  Shane and Allyson are so grateful for all the love, help, and support from family and friends. They voiced a special thanks to Shane’s Mom, Dad, and brother— Jamie, David, and Daniel Roberts. Without their moral support and financial help, Shane and Allyson would never have been able to make Deuce’s happen. 

The Sauce that Started It All

Shane and Allyson's culinary journey took a significant turn when they crafted their now-famous barbecue sauce—Texas Twister Barbecue Swamp Sauce. The sauce was initially just for their personal use and was often given away in empty ketchup bottles to family and friends who couldn't get enough of it. Allyson saw the potential and encouraged Shane to bottle it for the market. Their aim was simple: bring restaurant-quality flavor into people's homes, especially during the pandemic when dining out became less frequent. Though things didn't go as planned initially, the sauce did help them build momentum, giving them the confidence to take the following steps in their journey.

The Making of a Chef

For Shane, the kitchen was both a playground and a classroom. His childhood was spent between hunting trips with his father and helping with family dinners. As a young adult, Shane found himself entering—and winning—local cook-offs, focusing on barbecued wild pigs his dad would catch. His interest was more than just a hobby; it was a passion that would gradually shape his future.

The Decision to Move Forward

The couple's partnership transcended just culinary innovation. It was a friendship based on mutual respect and shared vision. Disagreements, if any, were discussed openly, reinforcing their bond and their shared goals. The decision to open Deuce's Taste of the South was catalyzed when a prime location became available for lease. "Location was key," says Shane. Given his primary job in the oil field, they initially planned to run the restaurant on weekends as something different to do. The stars aligned for them when they secured a lease and a small business loan, making the weekend idea a full-time reality. Around this time, Shane and Allyson noticed a lack of authentic Texan barbecue in Lafayette, prompting them to expand their menu and incorporate Texan favorites. The couple values customer feedback and the personal touch, which became foundational as they fine-tuned their offerings. 

The Vision Behind the Custom Food Trailer

Shane Wiggins is a visionary in the realm of food trailers, dedicating a year and a half to building both functional and future-proof. Understanding that the trailer would need to grow with his business, he researched extensively to find the perfect partner, Southern Dimensions Group, for the job. Shane carefully selected top-notch equipment like Southern Pride Smokers, Winston CVap holding cabinets, and TRUE Refrigeration Equipment, emphasizing quality and long-term efficiency. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as manufacturing delays, Shane remained committed to his vision. He even opted for a commercial generator over a residential one for long-term reliability. Above all, Shane believes in never settling for less, a philosophy that extends to every detail, including exceeding Louisiana's fire safety requirements. For Shane, it's not just about having the best equipment; it's about ensuring a five-star product every day.

Connecting Through Food

One of the most rewarding aspects of Shane's and Allyson's culinary journey has been the emotional connections their food fosters. Customers often tell them their dishes remind them of a loved one's cooking. These affirmations, combined with Allyson's keen eye for detail and a shared vision for authentic Southern cuisine, have become the backbone of their success.

The Philosophy of Cooking

Shane says, "It's all relative to how you look at it." The road to Deuce's Taste of the South was paved with challenges and a deep-rooted belief in the joy of cooking. Their willingness to listen, adapt, and grow has made their restaurant more than just a place to eat—it's a testament to the power of food to bring people together.

Conclusion

Shane and Allyson Wiggins have built more than a restaurant; they've created a community hub where every dish comes with a side of history and heart. Whether you're in it for the rich barbecue or the emotional nostalgia it evokes, Deuce's Taste of the South offers a culinary experience that resonates on a profoundly human level. With their famous barbecue sauce as a cornerstone, the couple has created a dining experience that brings a unique taste of the South to your table, or, as Shane would say, "a taste you can take home."

So, the next time the aroma of barbecue wafts through the air and a dust cloud—or perhaps, a smoke cloud—appears on the horizon, you'll know that Deuce's Taste of the South isn't far away. A visit is not just a meal; it's a step back in time, a hug from a loved one, and most importantly, a taste of the South that you'll never forget.

And that, my fellow foodies, is a story worth telling.

Find Deuces Taste of the South at 2007 E Main St, Broussard, LA 70518

Visit their Facebook page: Deuce's Taste of the South 

For delivery:  ASAP Delivery

The Food of Deuce's Taste of the South

             

Deuce's Taste of the South Family