Hey there, fellow barbecue lovers! If you're on the hunt for the absolute best barbecue in Houston, Texas, you've come to the right place. Houston is a BBQ mecca, a city where the smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats fills the air, and the competition among pitmasters is fierce. Whether you're a local or just passing through, navigating the Houston barbecue scene can be a delicious but daunting task. That's why I've put together this guide to help you discover the top BBQ spots in town, ensuring you get your fill of tender brisket, juicy ribs, and all the fixings.

Why Houston is a BBQ Paradise

First, let's talk about why Houston is such a barbecue paradise. It's not just about having a lot of BBQ joints; it's about the diversity and quality of the barbecue you can find here. Houston's barbecue scene is a melting pot of traditions, blending classic Texas techniques with influences from around the world. You'll find everything from traditional Central Texas-style barbecue, with its focus on simple rubs and slow smoking, to innovative spots experimenting with flavors and ingredients you won't find anywhere else.

Another reason Houston stands out is the dedication of its pitmasters. These are folks who are passionate about their craft, spending countless hours perfecting their techniques and sourcing the best possible ingredients. They're up before dawn, tending to their smokers, ensuring that every piece of meat is cooked to perfection. This dedication is what sets Houston barbecue apart and makes it a must-try for any serious BBQ enthusiast.

And let's not forget the sides! A great barbecue meal is more than just the meat; it's about the complete experience. In Houston, you'll find a wide array of sides, from classic coleslaw and potato salad to creative dishes like mac and cheese with brisket and elote-style corn. These sides complement the meat perfectly, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Top BBQ Joints in Houston

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are some of the top BBQ joints in Houston that you absolutely need to try:

1. Truth BBQ

Truth BBQ is a name that consistently pops up when discussing the best barbecue in Houston, and for good reason. Pitmaster Leonard Botello IV has created a barbecue empire that extends beyond Houston, but the original location remains a must-visit. What sets Truth BBQ apart is their unwavering commitment to quality and their innovative approach to classic barbecue dishes.

Their brisket is legendary, boasting a perfectly rendered fat cap, a deep smoky flavor, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. But don't stop there! The ribs are equally impressive, with a beautiful bark and tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone. And for something a little different, try their homemade sausage, which comes in a variety of flavors and is packed with flavor.

But Truth BBQ is more than just meat. Their sides are just as noteworthy, with standouts like the tater tot casserole, mac and cheese, and coleslaw. These aren't your average sides; they're made with the same care and attention to detail as the meat, ensuring a complete and satisfying meal. Be prepared for a wait, as Truth BBQ is incredibly popular, but trust me, it's worth it.

2. Killen's Barbecue

Killen's Barbecue is another Houston institution that has earned its place among the top BBQ spots in the city. Chef Ronnie Killen has brought his culinary expertise to the world of barbecue, creating a menu that is both classic and innovative. Located in Pearland, just south of Houston, Killen's is worth the drive for barbecue lovers seeking perfection.

The brisket at Killen's is simply sublime, with a rich, smoky flavor and a tenderness that is unmatched. The ribs are equally impressive, perfectly seasoned and cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection. And for something a little different, try their beef ribs, which are massive and packed with flavor.

But what really sets Killen's apart is their attention to detail. From the sourcing of their meats to the preparation of their sides, everything is done with care and precision. Their creamed corn is legendary, and their bread pudding is the perfect way to end your meal. Be sure to arrive early, as Killen's often sells out of their most popular items.

3. Pinkerton's Barbecue

Located in the Heights neighborhood, Pinkerton's Barbecue offers a unique and elevated barbecue experience. Pitmaster Grant Pinkerton has created a menu that blends traditional Texas barbecue with modern techniques and flavors. The atmosphere at Pinkerton's is upscale yet inviting, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a casual night out.

The brisket at Pinkerton's is exceptional, with a deep smoky flavor and a perfectly rendered fat cap. The ribs are equally impressive, with a beautiful bark and tender, juicy meat. And for something a little different, try their duck and sausage jambalaya, which is a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Pinkerton's also boasts an impressive selection of sides, including their jalapeno cheese rice, smoked mac and cheese, and potato salad. And don't forget to check out their cocktail menu, which features creative and delicious drinks that pair perfectly with barbecue. With its upscale atmosphere and exceptional food, Pinkerton's is a must-visit for any serious BBQ enthusiast.

4. Gatlin's BBQ

Gatlin's BBQ is a family-owned and operated barbecue joint that has been serving up delicious barbecue in Houston for over a decade. Pitmaster Greg Gatlin is committed to using the highest quality ingredients and traditional smoking techniques to create barbecue that is both flavorful and authentic.

The brisket at Gatlin's is consistently excellent, with a deep smoky flavor and a tender, juicy texture. The ribs are equally impressive, with a beautiful bark and meat that falls off the bone. And for something a little different, try their pulled pork, which is slow-cooked and packed with flavor.

Gatlin's also offers a variety of classic sides, including coleslaw, potato salad, and mac and cheese. And don't forget to try their homemade desserts, which are the perfect way to end your meal. With its friendly service and delicious food, Gatlin's is a neighborhood favorite that is well worth a visit.

5. Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue

For a truly unique barbecue experience, head to Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue in Tomball, just northwest of Houston. This spot combines two of life's greatest pleasures: barbecue and chocolate. Pitmasters Scott Moore Jr. and Michelle Holland have created a menu that is both innovative and delicious, with barbecue that is infused with chocolate flavors.

The brisket at Tejas is unlike anything you've ever tasted, with a subtle chocolate flavor that enhances the smoky notes of the meat. The ribs are equally impressive, with a chocolate-infused rub that adds a unique depth of flavor. And for something truly special, try their chocolate-infused sausage, which is a must-try for any chocolate lover.

Tejas also offers a variety of chocolate desserts, including their famous chocolate bark and truffles. And don't forget to try their craft beers, which pair perfectly with the barbecue and chocolate. With its unique concept and delicious food, Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue is a one-of-a-kind experience that you won't want to miss.

Tips for Navigating the Houston BBQ Scene

Now that you know some of the top BBQ spots in Houston, here are a few tips to help you navigate the scene like a pro:

• Arrive Early: The best barbecue joints in Houston often sell out of their most popular items, so it's always a good idea to arrive early. This is especially true on weekends, when lines can be long.
• Be Prepared to Wait: Speaking of lines, be prepared to wait. The best barbecue is worth waiting for, but it's always a good idea to bring a book or a friend to help pass the time.
• Try a Variety of Meats: Don't just stick to brisket. Houston barbecue is all about variety, so be sure to try the ribs, sausage, pulled pork, and whatever else catches your eye.
• Don't Forget the Sides: A great barbecue meal is more than just the meat; it's about the complete experience. Be sure to try a variety of sides to complement your meal.
• Ask for Recommendations: If you're not sure what to order, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. The staff at most barbecue joints are happy to help you find something you'll love.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, folks! A guide to some of the best barbecue in Houston, Texas. Houston's barbecue scene is diverse, delicious, and constantly evolving, so there's always something new to discover. Whether you're a local or just visiting, I hope this guide helps you find your new favorite BBQ spot. Happy eating!