A Meat Lover's Guide to the Best BBQ in Houston
Juicy briskets rolling on and off the blocks, links upon links of sausages, racks of pork ribs (What wine goes well with pork ribs?) for days, and a colorful collection of sides is what I call a great afternoon in Houston, Texas! If you didn’t know already, Houston is a barbecue hotspot in the State of Texas. Here, pitmasters continuously hone their craft in the smoke and flames to bring customers the most delicious meats.
If you’re planning a trip to H-Town or are just on the lookout for your next smoked meat revelation, check out one of these local spots for great barbecue in Houston.
You can learn more about briskets by clicking here.
Brett’s Barbecue Shop
Making it to Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Joints is no easy feat, and Brett’s Barbecue Shop sure put the work in to achieve their place on the 2021 list. This barbecue restaurant in Katy has been made famous for its Central Texas-style oak-smoked original BBQ, and in this respect holds its own with the best in Texas.
Classics such as juicy beef (how long does beef last?) brisket, smoked pork belly (What wine goes well with pork belly?) burnt ends, and succulent pork ribs are what you can expect here, as well as an array of mouthwatering Oriental fusion picks. Plus, don't forget about their mouthwatering chopped beef sandwich, loaded baked potato, and their delightful frito pie.
If you get the chance to visit, try their brisket banh mi along with a side of their heavenly mac and cheese (how long does cheese last?).
Brett’s Barbecue Shop serves up finger-licking Texas barbecue.
Address: 606 South Mason Road, Katy, TX 77450
Contact: (281) 392-7666
Lonestar Sausage & BBQ
If you're on the hunt for mouth-watering barbecue in Harris County, Lonestar Sausage & BBQ is a great place to fill up your belly. This cozy bbq shack serves up hearty servings of tender, juicy brisket, succulent pork spare ribs, whole chicken, and (my personal favorite) their house-specialty sausage. Their sausage recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, making it an authentic Texas BBQ delicacy.
But it's not just the meat that's the star of the show - Lonestar's side options are just as noteworthy. From savory collard greens (how long do collard greens last?) and classic potato salad to creamy mac and cheese and crispy fried okra, there's something to please every palate. Satisfy your BBQ cravings and head to Lonestar Sausage & BBQ for a delicious meal you won't forget.
Lonestar Sausage & BBQ is the place to go for a traditional Texas barbecue.
Address: 13712 Walters Ste 140, Houston, TX 77014
Contact: (832) 882-5978
Gatlin’s BBQ
For a good barbecue experience that's sure to satisfy your cravings, head to Gatlin's BBQ. This Houston hotspot serves up mouthwatering St. Louis ribs, tender smoked brisket, and a wide variety of other smoked meats that will make your taste buds dance.
As you walk into their brick-and-mortar location, the irresistible aroma of barbecue from the pit room fills the air, luring you in. If you ever get to drop by, be sure to try their baby back ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken wings, served with your choice of sauce - the Thai chili and raspberry-habanero are particularly delicious.
And don't forget the sides! Gatlin's Cajun-style dirty rice, house made baked beans (how long di baked beans last?), and loaded baked potatoes are all great options to round out your meal. Finally, save room for dessert - the peach cobbler is a standout for the sweet tooth. Trust us, pitmaster Greg Gatlin doesn’t disappoint as one of the best BBQ in Houston.
Gatlin’s BBQ is the ultimate food spot for smoked meat goodies.
Address: 3510 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77018
Contact: (713) 869-4227
Pinkerton's Barbecue
If you’re up for a proper Texas pit barbecue experience, then make your way to Pinkerton’s Barbecue. This barbecue joint is a great place for seasoned barbecue connoisseurs and casual meat-eaters alike. Founded by Texan pitmaster Grant Pinkerton, this Houston barbeque restaurant has mastered the art of preparing to-die-for smoked meats that honor the Texas tradition of pit smoking.
If you want the ultimate Pinkerton's experience, I highly recommend trying their Texas Trinity meat option. And don't forget to save room for some sides! If you prefer single servings, their glazed pork ribs, smoked sausage, and smoked boudin are all fantastic choices. And for the perfect sweet ending, be sure to indulge in their mouthwatering smoked bread (how long does bread last?) pudding or banana pudding. Trust us, it's the perfect last bite to a truly unforgettable meal.
Pinkerton’s Barbecue is an established BBQ joint that has earned its spot as a top Houston barbecue destination.
Address: 1504 Airline Drive, Houston, TX 77009
Contact: (713) 802-2000
Truth BBQ
If you’re looking for the best BBQ in Houston filled with honest-to-goodness flavor, then Truth BBQ is for you. This spot really shows what great meat should taste like. Tuck into their smoked tender brisket, pulled pork, and pork ribs for a culinary experience you won’t forget. Get even more tantalized with the tater tot casserole, smoked turkey breast selection, brussels sprouts (how long do brussels sprouts last?), or corn (how long does corn last?) pudding.
Thinking about heading along? Come early to avoid the long lines– this place is popular! Open from 11am Tuesday through Sunday, Truth BBQ closes once the food runs out. This top BBQ establishment offers a catering service as well as barbecue classes for those who are interested in learning about the craft of the pit.
Truth BBQ ain’t lying when it comes to true Texas barbecue, with their traditional take on smoked meats and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Address: 110 S Heights BLVD, Houston, TX 77007
Contact: (832) 835-0001
Come on down and get your barbeque fix at Houston's five best spots. Whether you're in the mood for succulent brisket, savory pulled pork, lip-smacking ribs, or tender, juicy chicken, these five local gems have it all. From friendly pitmasters to welcoming servers, everyone here is genuinely passionate about bringing great barbeque to the table. Plus, there's something special about cooking over an open flame – it brings out those amazing smoky flavors that make barbeque unique. Don't wait another day to try the best BBQ in Houston – pull up a chair and dig in!
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