What started as one family’s effort to preserve a beloved barbecue recipe has grown into one of Indiana’s most recognizable barbecue sauce brands.
Founded in 2006 by Lathay Pegues, Terrell Cooper and Rodney Robinson, JohnTom’s Barbecue was inspired by the legacy of Pegues and Cooper’s grandfather, John Tom Branson. Known throughout Muncie for his wood-smoked barbecue and homemade sauce, Branson dreamed of opening a restaurant before his death in 1986. Years later, his family launched JohnTom’s to honor that vision, creating original recipes inspired by the flavors they remembered.
Today, the company produces four signature sauces, including Original, Sneaky Hot, Hoosier Heat and Peppered Gold. The sauces are made and bottled in Indianapolis and are available in grocery stores, specialty markets and retailers across Indiana, as well as online.
JohnTom’s products have also found their way into restaurants, university dining halls and major Indiana venues, including Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis Zoo. The company was previously recognized by readers of “Indianapolis Monthly” as Indiana’s favorite barbecue sauce.
While the business has expanded its reach throughout the Midwest, its mission remains rooted in family, tradition and sharing a taste of Southern-inspired barbecue with Hoosiers.
For more information or to browse products, visit JohnTom’s Barbecue online at johntomsbbq.com.
This highlight was composed by Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth as a part of the 2026 HBCU All-Stars Vendor Showcase. If you would like your business highlighted, contact us at newsroom@indyrecorder.com.
