In the heart of Tompkinsville, Kentucky, Mrs. Anita, the beloved owner of R&S Restaurant, has been serving up some of the most mouthwatering dishes in the region—especially her legendary Monroe County Pork Shoulder. Known for its tender, smoky flavor, this dish has become a local favorite, but it wouldn’t be the same without the high-quality pork provided by Larry Ross, the legendary butcher who supplies most of the BBQ restaurants in the region. Larry’s family-owned butcher shop has built a reputation for sourcing and cutting the most precise cuts, making his pork shoulder a key ingredient in the success of numerous local BBQ joints—including R&S Restaurant. But what makes this BBQ so special, and why has it remained largely unknown outside of the region? In this documentary, we’ll explore how the Monroe County Pork Shoulder became a hidden gem of Kentucky BBQ. From the unique flavors and techniques passed down through generations to the close-knit community that keeps the tradition alive, we’ll uncover why this dish has remained such a regional secret. Despite its mouthwatering reputation among locals, it has yet to gain widespread recognition beyond the borders of Monroe County—and we’ll dig into the cultural, historical, and practical reasons why. Join us as we dive deep into the rich flavors, the hardworking individuals behind the scenes, and the community that has supported this culinary tradition for years. From the hickory smoked pork shoulder at R&S Restaurant to the expertise of a butcher, this is a story about the people, the food, and the legacy of a dish that truly belongs to this place.
About the El Osito Films
Welcome to El Osito Films – Where Stories Matter 🎥🐻 I’m Barrett Dennison and my spanish isn’t great but I go by El Osito — a name given to me during a documentary workshop in Antigua, Guatemala. “El Osito” means “the little bear,” a nickname that stuck as I found myself working on film projects around the world., fitting for a filmmaker who stands strong but also uses warmth and empathy. At El Osito Films, we specialize in crafting stories that connect with the heart. Documentary, Commercials, or Narrative, my passion lies in storytelling that moves people. I’ve had the privilege of working on projects across the globe always seeking to tell stories that matter. Based near Nashville, Tennessee in Southern Kentucky, I believe in collaboration and creating meaningful work. It’s not just about the projects we create, but the relationships we build along the way. Join me on this creative journey as we tell stories that matter. Subscribe, and let’s make something creative together. 🎬