The 10 Best BBQ Spots to Try in Houston

There’s no better way to visit Houston than by diving straight into its smoky, savory, and slow-cooked barbecue culture. The city’s BBQ scene is legendary, fueled by a rich blend of local traditions, diverse culinary influences, and passionate pitmasters who live and breathe Texas Barbecue.

Whether you're into beef brisket, pork ribs, or a heaping pile of dirty rice on the side, Houston delivers on all fronts. And if you’re just touching down and looking to ditch your bags before heading to a BBQ joint, there’s a convenient solution.

Before you start thinking “where’s a good luggage storage facility near me,” let’s save you some time. Nannybag is one of the most traveler-friendly solutions out there for Houston luggage storage. Their simple service allows travelers to stash any size bag for just $4.50 per day. There’s also free cancellation and 24/7 customer service if your plans change last minute.

What really sets Nannybag Houston luggage storage apart is that they partner with hotels and shops, meaning you can find luggage lockers in real businesses around town. Your stuff is insured up to $10,000, and you can drop off or pick up at your convenience—even if it’s 2 a.m. So if you're dropping off and picking up your bags in between meals, it only takes about 15 minutes to set it all up online. Definitely worth checking out before you dig into your first rack of ribs.

1. Feges BBQ

No list of the best BBQ spots in Houston is complete without Feges BBQ. This modern smokehouse is co-owned by Erin Smith and Patrick Feges, who bring fine-dining flair to the smoky staples. Think dry rubbed beef ribs, tender pork shoulder, and inventive side dishes like spiced mac and cheese and sweet bread pudding.

Their prime rib special? A must try in Houston. They even offer smoked tofu if you’ve got a vegetarian in your group—though it’s the kind of place where even they might be tempted by the pulled pork.

2. The Pit Room

Tucked in the Montrose neighborhood, The Pit Room is serious about their meat. You can taste it in their low-and-slow-cooked beef brisket, pork ribs, and house-made barbecue sauce crafted with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and a little hot sauce for kick. They’re also known for their scratch-made tortillas and rotating side dishes—get the dirty rice if it’s on the menu. It’s a warm, rustic spot that honors local traditions with a modern twist.

3. Truth BBQ

Just outside of downtown Houston, Truth BBQ is often hailed as serving some of the best BBQ in Houston. Their massive cut of meat options include buttery-soft beef brisket, pepper-crusted pork ribs, and glistening pulled pork.

The vibe is laid-back but efficient—you’ll want to arrive early because there’s usually a line. Their bread pudding might not be what you came for, but you’ll be glad you got it. They smoke everything using post oak and serve up classic Texas sides.

4. Ray’s BBQ Shack

If you’re after something with a bit more soul, Ray’s BBQ Shack is a local gem. The slow cooker-style meats practically melt, and they offer Southern favorites like dirty rice, fried catfish, and creamy mac and cheese. Ray’s is also a go-to for pork shoulder sandwiches and beef ribs slathered in a spicy-sweet sauce. You’ll feel like part of the family here—and we highly recommend going hungry.

5. Pinkerton’s Barbecue

Known for its melt-in-your-mouth beef brisket and massive pork ribs, Pinkerton’s brings serious craft to Houston’s BBQ game. Everything is made in-house, including their tangy, rich barbecue sauce and Southern-style side dishes. Their signature prime rib is only available on certain days, so call ahead if you’re aiming for that Houston specialty. Don’t skip the mac and cheese—cheesy, gooey perfection with a buttery crust.

6. Gatlin’s BBQ

Gatlin’s is the kind of place where regulars bring out-of-towners to show them how real BBQ is done. Their beef brisket is smoky and tender, and their pulled pork sandwiches are a fan favorite. This family-run joint also pays homage to local traditions, offering dirty rice, baked beans, and a bread pudding with just the right touch of melted butter. Everything here feels homemade—because it is.

7. Burns Original BBQ

This historic joint has deep roots in the community and a flavor profile that screams Houston pride. Their pork ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, and their secret barbecue sauce has been passed down for generations. Order a combo plate to sample a bit of everything, and feel free to load up on side dishes—especially the dirty rice and spicy green beans.

8. Killen’s Barbecue

Ronnie Killen’s temple to Texas meat is worth the short drive to Pearland. His menu includes perfectly rendered beef ribs, juicy pork shoulder, and an occasional smoked prime rib that people line up early for. With a rotating menu of side dishes like creamy mac and cheese and sweet bread pudding, Killen’s proves why it’s constantly in the conversation for the best BBQ in Houston.

9. CorkScrew BBQ

What started as a trailer now operates as a full-blown BBQ institution in Spring, just north of Houston. CorkScrew serves some of the juiciest beef brisket and pulled pork in town. They also shine with lesser-known cuts, giving each cut of meat the attention it deserves.

The owners smoke everything fresh daily, so once they’re out, they’re out. Plan to arrive early, and give yourself at least 30 minutes to wait—it’s that good.

10. Blood Bros. BBQ

A bold blend of Asian and Texas BBQ, Blood Bros. has redefined what Texas Barbecue can be. Their menu changes often, but past hits include gochujang-glazed pork ribs, Thai chili barbecue sauce, and curry-spiced beef brisket. It’s not just unique—it’s phenomenal. This is one of those places that anyone serious about food will mark as a must try in Houston.

Bonus Tip: Planning Ahead for Maximum Flavor

To fully enjoy the BBQ tour without worrying about your gear, it’s a good idea to line up storage space ahead of time—especially if you’ve just landed or are heading to the airport. With Houston’s abundance of storage facilities, you’ll have options, but choosing a traveler-friendly service with quick dropping off and picking is key. Nannybag, for example, has great coverage across the city and works well whether you’ve got one backpack or five roller bags.