Our Story

The art of hospitality: Meet Arn & Leigha Mendez

When Arn and Leigha Mendez traded the heat of Houston for the peaks of Northwest Montana, they didn’t just bring their favorite recipes; they brought an entire way of life. Arn’s BBQ was born from a desire to share the soulful, "low-and-slow" traditions of Central Texas with the Flathead Valley, but it has grown into something much deeper: a true family legacy.

A Family Labor of Love

At Arn’s, "family-owned" isn't just a label on the trailer—it’s how the fire stays lit. While Arn meticulously manages the pits and the 14-hour cook times required for brisket, Leigha steers the ship with hospitality and grace while curating the sides and sweets. Throughout the entire process, you’ll find the entire Mendez family woven into the fabric of the business.

From prep work and service to the "all-hands-on-deck" energy of a busy Sunday at 38 Central, the Mendez children are an integral part of the operation. This isn't just a job for the family; it’s a shared craft. When you step up to the window, you aren't just a customer—you’re a guest at the Mendez table, being served by the very people who spent their morning ensuring the bark was perfect and the sides were scratch-made.

The Texas Standard, Montana Grown

The commitment to quality is a family pact. Because they refuse to compromise, Arn and Leigha still source 100% Texas Post Oak wood, shipping it thousands of miles to the Flathead Valley to ensure the flavor remains authentic to their roots. No gas, no electric assists—just wood, fire, and the hard work of a family dedicated to the craft.

Whether you find the whole crew at their permanent summer home at Thirty Eight Whitefish or at a local market, you can taste the pride in every tray. At Arn’s BBQ, the smoke is real, the wood is Texan, the beef is Montana and the heart is 100% family.