A New Era: The Pink Heifer Saloon & Smokehouse

The concept behind Pink Heifer Saloon & Smokehouse was born from a passion for revitalizing historic spaces and creating unique, high-quality dining experiences in under served markets.

In early 2021, a historic building in Monticello, Wisconsin—originally constructed in 1895—caught the attention of a team with a background in hospitality, community development, and culinary arts. The building, formerly known as the Monticello House, had fallen vacant, but its potential was immediately evident. Market research revealed a clear gap in the region: limited family-friendly dining options, few unique culinary concepts, and minimal high-end establishments offering both atmosphere and authenticity.

The vision was clear—create a distinctive saloon-style BBQ restaurant that honors the past while embracing the future. The goal was to craft an elevated smokehouse experience rooted in historical design, paired with premium smoked meats, scratch-made sides, and immersive storytelling.

The name “Pink Heifer” emerged as a bold, memorable brand identity that reflects both charm and originality. It symbolizes a fresh take on the traditional smokehouse while remaining approachable and community-oriented.

The building underwent a full-scale transformation beginning in June 2021, including structural reinforcements, historical restorations, and a complete reimagining of the guest experience. Four large front windows, sealed for decades, were reopened. A new walkout deck was added to Main Street. Inside, the space was gutted and rebuilt—featuring a newly constructed stage, a custom-designed bar, all-new flooring and ceilings, updated restrooms, and a fully modernized kitchen from the ground up.

The dining room was designed to evoke a late 1800s western town, with storefront-style facades such as a livery stable, dance hall, post office, bank, and sheriff’s office. The sheriff’s office includes two themed jail cells, which serve as semi-private dining spaces for larger groups.

Pink Heifer Saloon & Smokehouse has become a standout destination by blending historical ambiance with culinary excellence. The brand is now preparing to scale its footprint through a line of premium quick-service restaurants (QSRs) under the Pink Heifer BBQ Saloons concept. Each new location will replicate the high-end saloon aesthetic while leveraging modern technology—including smart kitchen operations, digital ordering, and electronic lockers for carryout and delivery—to deliver efficiency and consistency.

Rooted in Wisconsin, designed for growth, and built on experience, Pink Heifer is redefining what it means to serve great BBQ—with character, quality, and purpose.