Best BBQ in Houston: Brisket, Ribs & Texas Smoke
Houston’s barbecue scene is a mix of deep Texas tradition and bold innovation. If you’re searching for the best BBQ in Houston, these top spots balance slow-smoked craftsmanship with cultural influences that make the city’s BBQ one of the most exciting in the country.
Savor the Best BBQ in Houston: From Traditional Smoke to Bold, Chef-Driven Flavors
1. Blood Bros. BBQ
Based in Bellaire, Blood Bros. is famous for blending Texas barbecue with Asian flavors. Standouts include brisket fried rice with burnt ends and kimchi, smoked turkey bánh mì, and creative twists like Thai green curry boudin. Regularly featured in Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ list, it’s recognized nationally for pushing barbecue in new directions.
- Signature Dish: Brisket Fried Rice, Smoked Turkey Bánh Mì
- Price Range: ~$12–25
- Website: bloodbrosbbq.com
2. The Pit Room
A Montrose staple, The Pit Room offers in-house sausages, brisket smoked low and slow, and tortillas griddled in brisket fat for their popular brisket tacos. The casual setting is lively, and the menu mixes Texas barbecue with Southwest inspiration. Prices are clearly listed—half-pound brisket around $15, dinner plates starting at $20.
- Signature Dish: Brisket Tacos, House-Made Sausages
- Price Range: ~$13–30
- Website: thepitroombbq.com
3. Truth BBQ
A Central Texas–style joint that made the Texas Monthly Top 50 and earned Michelin recognition, Truth BBQ is known for 18-hour smoked brisket, house sausages, and sides like collard greens and indulgent banana caramel cake. The Heights location is packed on weekends, and the dessert case is almost as famous as the meat.
- Signature Dish: Smoked Brisket, House Sausage, Banana Caramel Cake
- Price Range: ~$15–30
- Website: truthbbq.com
4. Killen’s Barbecue
Chef Ronnie Killen brings fine-dining precision to Texas barbecue. Giant beef ribs, tender smoked turkey, and seasonal specialties like dry-aged brisket tamales stand out on the menu. With multiple locations in Pearland and Cypress, Killen’s is considered one of Houston’s most consistent and polished barbecue spots.
- Signature Dish: Giant Beef Rib, Smoked Turkey
- Price Range: ~$14–32
- Website: killensbarbecue.com
5. Pinkerton’s Barbecue
Starting in the Heights and now expanded to San Antonio, Pinkerton’s serves prime brisket, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs, and spicy house sausages. Known for its rustic vibe and stacked woodpile, Pinkerton’s has earned national press while staying a local favorite.
- Signature Dish: Prime Brisket, Beef Rib
- Price Range: ~$15–32
- Website: pinkertonsbarbecue.com
6. Gatlin’s BBQ
Family-owned since 2010, Gatlin’s built its reputation on hickory-smoked brisket and the over-the-top Kitchen Sink Sandwich (brisket, sausage, jalapeños, and dirty rice). The Oak Forest location has plenty of seating, making it great for groups looking for classic Houston barbecue with a personal touch.
- Signature Dish: Kitchen Sink Sandwich, Hickory-Smoked Brisket
- Price Range: ~$12–25
- Website: gatlinsbbq.com
7. Feges BBQ (Spring Branch & Greenway Plaza)
Operated by husband-and-wife chefs, Feges combines traditional barbecue with chef-driven sides. Favorites include Big Red burnt ends, crispy cracklin, and hog-fat cornbread, alongside brisket and ribs. With two locations, Feges has become known for its creative approach and approachable pricing.
- Signature Dish: Big Red Burnt Ends, House Sausage
- Price Range: ~$10–21
- Website: fegesbbq.com
8. Roegels Barbecue Co.
A Houston classic, Roegels offers straightforward smoked meats with a few creative spins, like brisket grilled cheese and sides such as Texas caviar. Prices are clear—half-pound brisket about $17.50, two-meat plates around $23. Their reputation for consistency has made them a trusted name for years.
- Signature Dish: Brisket, Brisket Grilled Cheese
- Price Range: ~$12–26
- Website: roegelsbarbecue.com
Houston’s barbecue isn’t just about smoke and meat; it’s about heritage and creativity. From the fusion-driven menu at Blood Bros. to the refined techniques at Killen’s and the old-school plates at Gatlin’s, each spot reflects a different side of the city. Whether you want Central Texas authenticity or chef-driven twists, these restaurants serve the best BBQ in Houston.
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