Houston is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, with barbecue holding a special place in the hearts and stomachs of locals and visitors alike. The city and its surrounding areas boast numerous exceptional barbecue joints, each offering its own unique take on smoked meats and savory sides.
A road trip to explore Houston’s best barbecue spots is a mouthwatering adventure that showcases the diversity and quality of Texas-style barbecue. From traditional favorites to innovative newcomers, these establishments serve up tender brisket, juicy ribs, and flavorful sausages that exemplify the art of slow-smoked perfection. Food enthusiasts and barbecue aficionados will find plenty to savor as they embark on a meaty journey through Houston’s top barbecue destinations.
1) Killen’s Barbecue
Killen’s Barbecue stands as a cornerstone of Houston’s barbecue scene. Chef Ronnie Killen has built a reputation for serving exceptional smoked meats at his Pearland location.
The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring brisket, ribs, sausage, and turkey. Killen’s is known for its perfectly rendered brisket with a flavorful bark and tender texture.
Side dishes complement the meats, with favorites including creamed corn and mac and cheese. The restaurant’s popularity often leads to lines, but many patrons find the wait worthwhile.
Killen’s has expanded to multiple locations in the Houston area, including Cypress and The Woodlands. This growth speaks to the consistent quality and demand for their barbecue.
For those planning a barbecue road trip, Killen’s is a must-visit destination. The restaurant’s accolades include recognition from Food Network and local publications.
More information: https://www.killensbarbecue.com/
2) The Pit Room
The Pit Room stands out as a must-visit BBQ destination in Houston. Located at 1201 Richmond Ave, this casual eatery has gained a reputation for its flavorful meats and lively atmosphere.
Guests can expect tender brisket and juicy ribs that showcase the pit master’s expertise. The restaurant’s industrial-style interior offers ample seating both indoors and on the patio, creating a welcoming environment for diners.
The Pit Room’s menu features a good selection of typical BBQ options. Their brisket receives particular praise for its juiciness and well-balanced seasoning. The chicken is noted for being tender and properly smoked.
Quick service is a hallmark of The Pit Room, allowing guests to satisfy their BBQ cravings without long waits. The restaurant’s attention to detail extends to their smokers, which are covered by specialized exhaust systems to meet city requirements.
For more information or to plan a visit, check out The Pit Room’s website: www.thepitroombbq.com
3) Truth BBQ
Truth BBQ has quickly become a Houston barbecue hotspot since opening in 2019. Located in the Heights neighborhood, this restaurant has garnered significant praise from barbecue enthusiasts and food critics alike.
The brisket at Truth BBQ is a standout, known for its perfect smoke ring and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their sausages, particularly the spicy pepper jack variety, are also highly regarded by patrons.
Truth BBQ’s menu extends beyond traditional barbecue offerings. Their sides and desserts, including the corn pudding and multi-layer cakes, have become fan favorites.
Despite being a relatively new addition to Houston’s barbecue scene, Truth BBQ has already earned a spot in Texas Monthly’s top 3 barbecue joints in the state. This recognition speaks volumes about the quality of their food and service.
The restaurant can get busy, with wait times sometimes reaching 45 minutes or more. However, many customers find the wait worthwhile for the exceptional barbecue experience.
For more information or to check their menu, visit Truth BBQ’s website at www.truthbbq.com.
4) Pinkerton’s Barbecue
Pinkerton’s Barbecue stands out as a top-tier BBQ destination in Houston. Located at 1504 Airline Dr., this establishment has earned a reputation for its exceptional meats and sides.
The restaurant’s interior features mounted deer heads, creating a rustic atmosphere. Pinkerton’s is known for its Central Texas-style brisket, cooked to perfection in large offset barrel pits.
A unique offering at Pinkerton’s is the choice between wet-mop and dry-rub style pork ribs. This versatility caters to different taste preferences.
The beef rib is a star attraction, often selling out before midday. Patrons are advised to arrive early to secure this popular item.
Side dishes at Pinkerton’s are noteworthy. The jalapeno-cheese rice and smoked duck and sausage jambalaya are particularly recommended.
For more information or to plan a visit, check out Pinkerton’s website: www.pinkertonsbarbecue.com
5) Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue
Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue offers a unique combination of Texas-style barbecue and artisanal chocolate in Old Town Tomball. This establishment has gained recognition for its exceptional smoked meats and handcrafted confections.
Ranked #6 on Texas Monthly’s list of top barbecue joints, Tejas serves up prime cuts of meat slowly smoked in a custom barbecue pit. Their menu features tender brisket, juicy turkey, and other traditional barbecue favorites.
What sets Tejas apart is its dedication to chocolate-making. The owners create truffles and other chocolate treats from raw cocoa beans, adding a sweet twist to the barbecue experience.
Located in a rustic setting, Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue provides a laid-back atmosphere for enjoying both savory and sweet delights. Visitors can indulge in world-class smoked meats while sampling house-made chocolate creations.
For more information about Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue and their offerings, visit their website at www.tejaschocolate.com.
6) Blood Bros. BBQ
Blood Bros. BBQ brings a unique twist to Houston’s barbecue scene. Located in a Bellaire strip mall, this establishment started as a series of pop-ups before becoming a permanent fixture.
The restaurant combines traditional barbecue methods with diverse culinary influences. Asian, Caribbean, and Mediterranean flavors feature prominently in their innovative dishes.
Blood Bros. offers a menu that celebrates Houston’s multicultural heritage. Their pork ribs pay homage to the city’s African-American barbecue tradition, featuring a spicy-sweet rub.
The restaurant’s creativity extends to items like green curry boudin, showcasing Houston’s evolving barbecue landscape. This fusion approach has earned Blood Bros. national recognition.
Pricing at Blood Bros. is competitive with other quality barbecue joints in the city. A quarter-pound of their signature meats costs around $13.50, with sides and sandwiches priced affordably.
For more information, visit Blood Bros. BBQ’s website: https://www.bloodbrosbbq.com/
The History of BBQ in Houston
Houston’s barbecue scene has deep roots, shaped by diverse cultural influences and evolving cooking techniques. The city’s unique BBQ style emerged from a rich tapestry of traditions and innovations.
Influence of Different Cultures
Houston’s barbecue history reflects its multicultural heritage. African American pitmasters played a crucial role in developing the city’s BBQ style. In the Acres Homes neighborhood, iconic spots like Burns BBQ and Williams Smokehouse gained popularity in the 1980s. Creole influences from Louisiana migrants brought new flavors and techniques to Southeast Texas, eventually reaching Houston. Matt Garner, a pivotal figure in Houston’s BBQ scene, followed this Louisiana-to-Texas route.
The city’s BBQ also incorporates elements from German and Czech meat-smoking traditions. This blend of cultures created a unique Houston barbecue identity, distinct from other Texas styles.
Evolution of BBQ Techniques
Houston’s barbecue techniques have transformed over time. Early pitmasters used traditional wood-fired methods, focusing on slow-cooking tough cuts of meat. The 1990s saw a decline in quality as automated barbecue pits became widespread, allowing for faster but less flavorful production.
Recent years have witnessed a renaissance in Houston BBQ. Pitmasters are returning to traditional wood-smoking methods while experimenting with new flavor profiles. Modern BBQ joints like Brett’s BBQ Shop, featured in Texas Monthly’s Top 50 list, showcase this revival with their tender briskets and flavorful sides.
Innovative cooking techniques now coexist with time-honored traditions. Houston pitmasters continue to refine their craft, balancing smoky flavors with precise cooking times to create the city’s signature BBQ taste.
Tips for Planning a BBQ Road Trip
Proper planning ensures a successful BBQ road trip. Consider timing and essential items to maximize enjoyment and flavor.
Choosing the Right Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer ideal weather for BBQ road trips in Houston. Milder temperatures enhance outdoor dining experiences. Weekdays typically have shorter wait times at popular joints. Check restaurant hours in advance, as some close early or have limited days of operation.
Holiday weekends can bring larger crowds but may feature special menu items. Some BBQ spots sell out quickly, so arrive early for the best selection. Seasonal events like cook-offs or festivals can add excitement to your trip.
Must-Have BBQ Essentials
Pack wet wipes and napkins for messy hands and faces. Bring a cooler to store leftovers or takeout orders. Comfortable, stain-resistant clothing is a smart choice for BBQ outings.
Essential items:
- Antacids
- Bottled water
- Hand sanitizer
- Plastic bags for storing smoky-scented clothes
Consider bringing a portable grill for impromptu cookouts between restaurant visits. Pack a meat thermometer to ensure food safety when grilling. A food journal or app helps track favorite dishes and restaurants for future reference.