Squealers Barbeque Grill has been a culianary icon in Mooresville for the past 25 years, and they're getting ready to celebrate that milestone with a fun special event on Saturday, May 2, from 11 to 5 pm. Come out to help them celebrate and enjoy live music, great food at throwback prices, and the opening of their new event space inspired by the Indiana State Flag, which is also a Mooresville original!
Indiana native Jeff Yater’s love for barbecue began in his childhood and grew from a family tradition. His first smoker stood proudly at his family home in Columbia City, near Fort Wayne, Indiana. After moving to central Indiana as a teenager, Jeff’s passion for cooking flourished as he grilled on weekends, whether at home or at his family’s lake house. While attending Indiana University in Bloomington, Jeff gained valuable experience in the restaurant industry, working while pursuing his education. Jeff’s passion for barbecue ignited as his family’s weekend activities revolved around competitive barbecue events—a hobby first sparked by his father, Ron Yater. What began as friendly weekend cook-offs soon turned into a way of life, fueling Jeff’s dedication to perfecting the art of smoked meats.
Squealers began its journey “on the road.” In the late 1990s, Jeff purchased a fully equipped 30-foot enclosed trailer and set out to share his slow-cooked southern-style barbecue at events and competitions. Squealers Barbeque traveled to more than 24 cities across Indiana, the Midwest, and much of the United States, earning over 100 awards at national barbecue competitions, world barbecue events, and Ribfests in the South, East, and Midwest.
The original brick and mortar Squealers Barbeque Grill opened it's doors in Mooresville in May of 2021 and continues to bring Central Indiana residents and visitors the signature sauces, pulled pork, ribs, and brisket that have won countless awards over the years. Weekly lunch specials, kids' menus, senior specials and more offer something for everyone, with options for dine-in, off-the-menu carry-out, bulk order carry-out, full catering and even an on-site event/banquet center!
“It’s been a ride,” said Squealers Barbeque Grill Owner Jeff Yater. “Squealers opened just before September 11, 2001. Despite the challenges faced during the 2008 recession, and the COVID-era restrictions, we’re still here. Thanks to the support we’ve had all these years from our loyal community, we’re thrilled to continue being a staple in the Midwest barbeque scene.”
Squealers is also a member of the Indiana Foodways Alliance, which promotes statewide food trails. Squealers is currently listed on the Hoosier BBQ Trail, the Tenderloin Lovers Trail, and the Between the Buns Burger Trail.
Join the celebration!
You're invited! Squealers Barbeque Grill will host a special Anniversary Celebration event on Saturday, May 2. Stop by from 11 am to 5 pm to help them celebrate. They will officially open the new event/banquet center with its Indiana State Flag theme. Patrons can enjoy a beer tent and throwback pricing for Squealers' Award-winning pulled pork sandwich and chips, available for only $4! (Please note - offer is dine in only, limit two per person, no cash, available during special event hours only.) Live music will be provided from Whiskey Road and special guests, the John Boyle Trio. A Mooresville staple, Squealers Barbeque Grill is located at 890 E. High Street, just west of State Road 67.
