The Golden Rule Bar-B-Q and Grill, a beloved 134-year-old institution in Irondale, Alabama, has officially set a new world record for the “Most pulled pork sandwiches served in 8 hours.” On August 9, a day officially proclaimed as Golden Rule BBQ & Grill Day by Governor Kay Ivey and Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr., the restaurant served a staggering 6,215 sandwiches, shattering the previous record of 4,775.
The record-breaking attempt was part of a larger celebration of the restaurant’s 134-year history as one of Alabama’s oldest continuously operating eateries. To mark the occasion and encourage a strong turnout, the restaurant sold pulled pork sandwiches for just 95 cents with a limit of ten per customer.
The event, dubbed “The Big Pig Challenge,” drew massive crowds to the Irondale location, with lines stretching out the door and through the parking lot. The atmosphere was festive, with live music, family-friendly activities, and giveaways. When the Guinness World Records representative confirmed the new record, cheers and applause erupted as confetti flew through the air.
For the management and staff of the Golden Rule, the achievement was a testament to their operational efficiency, hard work, and the overwhelming support of the community. While some customers were disappointed when the restaurant ran out of pork before the event’s deadline, owner Brian Kemp addressed the issue and offered certificates to those who remained in line, honoring the special 95-cent price for ten sandwiches at a later date.
The new world record is a proud moment for the city of Irondale and the state of Alabama, showcasing the power of Southern hospitality and a passion for good barbecue. The framed certificate from Guinness World Records is set to be a permanent fixture at the Golden Rule, serving as a reminder of a historic day and a community that rallied to make it happen.
