Pit Boss BBQ, tucked in the corner of Virginia Avenue in Hapeville, might not be the star of the show from the street, but once inside, it’s easy to see why the establishment boasts numerous regulars, day after day.

Customers stream in and out of the petite, cozy, restaurant, with vibrant walls and floors and blues music drifting throughout, intermingling with the conversations that flow from the patrons who huddle at the tables.

After three years of serving customers barbecue goodness — pulled pork, barbecue chicken, ribs and sausages — Pit Boss has created quite a reputation for itself.

Owner Wade McSwain strives to maintain that standard.

“I’ve been in the food service business for more than 30 years,” he said. “This is a passion. I like cooking for people and seeing them happy.”

It’s all in the sauce, according to McSwain, as a secret recipe he concocts months in advance awaits on each table to be squirted in mild and hot varieties. Southern-style sides also serve as accompaniments to the barbecue, including collard greens, a creamy, no bake version of macaroni and cheese, baked beans or coleslaw.

Chilled sweet tea is among the other refreshments, along with freshly baked sweet treats such as red velvet and key lime cakes.

McSwain credits his faithful customers for his success thus far.

“We average anywhere between 1,200 to 1,400 customers a week,” he said. “Our success and the level of exposure we’ve received are all due to our guests.”

Pit Boss has two other locations, one in Stockbridge and another in Jonesboro.

Pit Boss BBQ Hapeville is at 856 Virginia Ave.