Uh oh...
It appears that you're using a severely outdated version of Safari on Windows. Many features won't work correctly, and functionality can't be guaranteed. Please try viewing this website in Edge, Mozilla, Chrome, or another modern browser. Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused!
Read More about this safari issue.
Every barbecue joint worth its smoke serves the classics like pulled pork, ribs and brisket. And yes, KnightFire BBQ in Searcy does those better than most. Their ribs are tender and flavorful, their brisket has that perfect bark, and the pulled pork is juicy and smoky. I’ve learned that if you always stick with the classics, you’re missing out on some of the most creative, crave-worthy barbecue in Arkansas.
We’re all creatures of habit. My husband always orders the two-meat plate with ribs, brisket and double fries. My son never deviates from the pulled pork sandwich. And me? I’m the adventurous one in our crew. I’ve slowly made my way through most of KnightFire’s menu and nearly every special they’ve run. I’m here to tell you—the daily specials are where the real magic happens. So next time you find yourself staring down the familiar menu, do yourself a favor and try something new. Matthew Knight’s craft BBQ creations are the kind of meals that surprise you in the best way.
Matthew Knight didn’t set out to become a pitmaster. Barbecuing meat was a hobby. He was inspired by his grandfather, who would roast a whole hog every Fourth of July, and one day got the itch to try it himself. His little backyard experiment soon turned into something more when friends started requesting his BBQ for parties and events. Before long, Knight was towing a food truck to local festivals and gatherings, all while juggling a full-time job.
That food truck found a semi-permanent home in Searcy, where it built a loyal following. In 2022, KnightFire relocated to its first brick-and-mortar location, and while it provided more kitchen space and a consistent spot for customers to get their fix, parking was a beast, and there was still no indoor dining. So, in November 2024, KnightFire BBQ opened in a new and expanded location, complete with a large indoor dining room that’s perfect for sit-down meals with friends and family and a parking lot that’s a bit easier to navigate.
When you walk into KnightFire, you’ll find your favorite classics: pulled pork, brisket, half chickens and ribs—all smoked low and slow with just the right balance of juiciness and rich, smoky flavor. These are the meats that built KnightFire’s reputation, and they’re still served in hearty portions with that signature house-made BBQ sauce. Want it spicy? Just ask for the hot version.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Knight takes pride in the craft side of barbecue, constantly dreaming up new ways to showcase smoked meats in unexpected and delicious ways. His house-made sausage is packed with flavor, and the pork steaks are thick, juicy, and full of smoky goodness. The smoked-then-fried chicken wings are my personal favorite. They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and kissed with just the right amount of smoke. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you they are the best wings I’ve ever had.
Then there are the sandwiches. Don’t sleep on the pastrami Reuben, which balances tangy, smoky and savory in every bite. Or the Beef and Cheddar, which tastes like comfort food and backyard barbecue had a delicious baby. And if you’re on the hunt for the best burger in Searcy, I can say with confidence you’ll find it here. Try The Godfather—just trust me.
Every side dish at KnightFire is made from scratch and crafted with care. You’ll find local ingredients like heirloom tomatoes when they’re in season, and everything that hits the fryer is cooked in beef tallow for a rich, savory flavor with zero seed oils. From the fries to the beans to the slaw, you can taste the difference that quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation make.
What I love most about KnightFire is that even with all the creative specials and menu variety, Matthew Knight still puts just as much focus on getting better at the everyday staples. He’s constantly tweaking, perfecting, and making sure that the brisket you order today is even better than the one you had last month. The portions are generous, the flavors are bold, and the pride in every plate is unmistakable.
And he’s not done yet. Knight is still dreaming, still scheming and still planning for what’s next. Whether it’s new menu items, seasonal specials or exciting things on the horizon, KnightFire BBQ is the kind of place that keeps you coming back.
So go ahead and order your favorite pulled pork sandwich if that’s what you’re craving. But the next time you visit KnightFire, step just a little outside your comfort zone. Try something different because you might just discover your new favorite thing. Be sure to arrive early or place your order ahead of time online, as once they sell out, they’re gone, and you might miss out.
KnightFire BBQ
1404 E. Race Street
Searcy, AR 72143
Eatknightfire.com
Now is the perfect time to hit the road and discover amazing barbecue joints across Arkansas. Check out A Barbecue Lover’s Guide to Arkansas Barbecue.
We do the work.
You check your email.
Sign up for our weekly e-news.
Get stories sent straight to your inbox!
Like this story? Read more from Julie Kohl
I grew up with a pond, a creek and a river in my backyard, which meant my...
If you have kids, they've likely looked at you at some point and told you...
August in Arkansas is hot, hazy and full of subtle changes. While the...
Join the Conversation
Leave a Comment