The 16 Best Black-Owned BBQ Places in Houston

Houston boasts of a rich and diverse culinary scene, but one of its quintessential highlights is undoubtedly its BBQ. At the heart of Houston's BBQ community, Black-owned BBQ places serve up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, seasoned with love, culture, and an unbeatable touch of soul.
With a desire to shine the spotlight on these local culinary gems, the following list is curated specifically for BBQ lovers seeking Black-owned BBQ joints in Houston. We hope this helps you find your new favorite spot, or maybe even reintroduce you to an old classic.
- Location: Optimize your search by looking for BBQ spots easily accessible and nearby.
- Cuisine: Explore the diversity of each joint, with some offering a perfect blend of modern and traditional BBQ while others maintain a distinct style.
- Customer Reviews: Read through past patrons’ experiences to help find the BBQ that suits your palate.
- Price: Find places that will get you the best bang for your buck. Compare the prices without compromising on the quality.
- Unique Flavors and Sauces: Look out for those places which offer unique flavors or in-house made BBQ sauces.
Now, let's jump into the smoky and delicious world of Houston's Black-owned BBQ landscape. Here are the The 16 Best Black-Owned BBQ Places in Houston:
- 1. MadMax BBQ (Food Truck)
- 2. Triple J's Smokehouse
- 3. Lonestar Sausage & BBQ
- 4. Rays Real Pit BBQ Shack
- 5. Burns Original BBQ
- 6. SouthernQ BBQ and Catering
- 7. Gatlin's BBQ
- 8. Carter's BBQ & Greens
- 9. JB'S BARBEQUE
- 10. Fainmous BBQ
- 11. ReMo's Cafe
- 12. Hitters BBQ & Catering
- 13. Stewart Brotha’s Bar-B-Que (Food Truck)
- 14. Ike's BBQ (Food Truck)
- 15. EZ Backyard Bar B Q
- 16. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
1. MadMax BBQ (Food Truck)
Información y Opiniones
With a remarkable rating of 4.9, MadMax BBQ has garnered great reviews from satisfied customers. Some key points from the reviews include:
- We had Max come out to cater for our team and they are STILL talking about how good it is! Portion sizes are Texas sized and the potato salad was creamy and not too much mustard. The sausage had a nice little zing to it. Outstanding customer service.
- The food was EXCELLENT and the portions were plentiful. Ribs, chicken, potato salad, and beans were a hit. Professional, timely, and friendly service. A solid 5 star rating!
- MadMax and his team catered for a wedding and served 260 people with dishes like brisket, BBQ chicken, sausage, Mac and cheese, beans, and potato salad. Guests couldn't stop raving about the food.
- One of their vendors brought them for catering and the ribs and brisket were amazing. Excellent attention to detail and service.
These glowing reviews highlight the quality of food and exceptional service provided by MadMax BBQ. Visit their website for more information!
2. Triple J's Smokehouse
Información y Opiniones
- Succulent and flavorful meats with surprising bursts of smokiness
- Long lines that move quickly, a testament to the worth-it food
- A great variety of dishes, including the famous Triple J baked potato
- Top-notch customer service in a clean and welcoming atmosphere
These glowing reviews show why Triple J's Smokehouse is a must-visit spot for anyone craving delicious barbecue in a warm and inviting setting.
3. Lonestar Sausage & BBQ
Información y Opiniones
- Visitors praise the abundant portions and outstanding food, with the 4-meat plate being a popular choice.
- The homemade BBQ sauce receives high marks for its flavor and quality.
- Customers appreciate the friendly and warm atmosphere and quick service provided by the staff.
4. Rays Real Pit BBQ Shack
Información y Opiniones
- The delicious 1/4 lb. burger, BBQ chicken, shrimp, and catfish keep customers coming back for more.
- The peach cobbler is described as heavenly and a must-try dessert.
- The courteous and professional staff receive high praise for their friendly service.
- The cleanliness and comfortable atmosphere make dining at Rays Real Pit BBQ Shack a delightful experience.
Whether you're looking for a quick but satisfying lunch or a delicious dinner option, be sure to check out Rays Real Pit BBQ Shack for an unforgettable dining experience in Houston.
5. Burns Original BBQ
Información y Opiniones
The place is popular for lunch and dinner, attracting groups, tourists, and university students. Some of the highlights of Burns Original BBQ include fast service and great dessert options. Customers have praised the establishment for its incredible BBQ, with one reviewer mentioning it as some of the best BBQ they've had in Texas. Furthermore, the simple menu and fast service have left patrons satisfied and eager to return.
- The hospitality was great
- The brisket and link sausage were delicious
- One reviewer mentioned it as some of the best BBQ they've had in Texas
- Fast service and simple menu
If you're in Houston and craving authentic BBQ, Burns Original BBQ is definitely worth a visit!
6. SouthernQ BBQ and Catering
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points summarizing customer reviews:
- The location is perfect for those near Houston Intercontinental Airport
- Great place for Texas BBQ with fair prices
- Delicious meats and sides like banana pudding
- Polite staff and pleasant dining experience
Customers also appreciate the clean and tidy atmosphere at SouthernQ and friendly staff who are knowledgeable about the menu. The rustic decor and open seating add to the overall charm of the place. SouthernQ BBQ and Catering is a must-visit for those craving authentic Texas barbecue in a welcoming environment.
7. Gatlin's BBQ
Información y Opiniones
Customers have praised Gatlin's BBQ for their exceptional barbecue, with reviews emphasizing:
- Absolutely DELICIOUS barbecue with excellent flavor and perfectly cooked meats.
- Great hickory smoked meats like ribs, sausage, and brisket.
- Delicious sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and baked corn.
- Friendly staff, clean location, and accessibility features for all customers.
Despite some mixed reviews, Gatlin's BBQ continues to impress customers with their hearty meals and warm hospitality. It is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts looking for an authentic and flavorful experience.
8. Carter's BBQ & Greens
Información y Opiniones
- The meat is so juicy and falls off the bone, the best BBQ flavor.
- Brisket, ribs, and sausage are incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Great customer service and a variety of mouth-watering sides.
- Passionate owner who is dedicated to providing top-quality BBQ.
If you're in the mood for some amazing barbecue, pay a visit to Carter's BBQ & Greens and experience the delicious offerings that keep customers coming back for more!
9. JB'S BARBEQUE
Información y Opiniones
- Phenomenal chicken and brisket, reminiscent of authentic Kansas City BBQ.
- Best brisket ever tasted, along with exceptional customer service.
- Delicious chopped brisket sandwich that is worth the drive, as well as heartwarming customer service.
- Small batch TRUE Texas BBQ made with love, a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts.
Experience the true Texas BBQ at JB'S BARBEQUE and indulge in a delicious feast that will leave you craving for more!
10. Fainmous BBQ
Información y Opiniones
- Customers appreciate the great customer service and friendly staff recommendations.
- The meats, especially brisket, are highlighted for their smoky and flavorful taste.
- The pineapple sweet tea is a standout drink loved by many visitors.
With a 4.4-star rating and numerous positive reviews, Fainmous BBQ is a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts looking for a memorable dining experience.
11. ReMo's Cafe
Información y Opiniones
- The brisket and ribs are juicy and flavorful, especially when paired with the sweet barbecue sauce.
- The loaded brisket fries are a must-try, with generous portions and perfectly seasoned chopped beef.
- The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent customer service to enhance the dining experience.
- The oxtails, mac and cheese, and cornbread dressing are highlighted as must-have dishes that are simply delicious.
With a solid 4.3 rating and 429 reviews, it's clear that customers love the food, ambiance, and service at ReMo's Cafe. Whether you're dining in or taking away, this restaurant is a go-to spot for quality soul food in Houston.
12. Hitters BBQ & Catering
Información y Opiniones
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- A customer mentioned that the ribs and brisket were dry and hard, but the potato salad and BBQ sauce were good.
- Another reviewer expressed disappointment in the food quality, stating it was dry and bland.
- On a positive note, a customer highly recommended Hitters BBQ & Catering, praising their delicious food and exceptional customer service.
- One reviewer noted that the brisket was juicy and fatty, while the beans were particularly delicious.
13. Stewart Brotha’s Bar-B-Que (Food Truck)
Información y Opiniones
- The brisket and ribs are a favorite among customers, with the meat falling off the bone and bursting with flavor.
- Many rave about the mac n cheese, describing it as creamy and mouth-watering.
- The customer service is exceptional, with patrons praising the friendly and accommodating staff.
If you're in the mood for comfort food that hits the spot, Stewart Brotha’s Bar-B-Que is the place to be. Whether you're dining in, taking away, or ordering catering for a special event, you can count on a top-notch experience with delicious, tender, and flavorful BBQ.
14. Ike's BBQ (Food Truck)
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Amazing Food!! If you're looking for real BBQ like your grandpa makes for the family reunion then this is the place. The chopped brisket was delicious.
- The ribs were really good and the potato salad was good. However, the sliced brisket was dry and tasteless.
- The ribs were really dry and tough. The food that day was not good and overall the experience was not pleasant.
- The boudin is delicious and the ribs are a hit. The customer service is also excellent, with concerns being promptly addressed.
15. EZ Backyard Bar B Q
Información y Opiniones
- Classic set up and great BBQ
- Very helpful and friendly staff
- Consistently good food
- One of the best brisket sandwiches
If you're in the mood for delicious BBQ in a casual atmosphere, EZ Backyard Bar B Q is the place to go. So why not give it a try?
16. Dickey's Barbecue Pit
Información y Opiniones
- The coleslaw smelled bad, and the meat seemed old and dry.
- Customers complained about receiving the wrong dishes and poorly prepared food.
- Issues with wait times, poor customer service, and inadequate portions were reported.
Map of Black-Owned BBQ Places in Houston
Immerse yourself in a glorifying culinary journey through Houston, renowned for its vibrant BBQ scene. Use our comprehensive map to discover an array of exquisite flavors and the rich cultural heritage behind each smokehouse. Highlighting Black-owned BBQ joints, this map showcases not just places to eat but also tells a story of tradition and legacy in Houston's culinary landscape.
Historical Significance of Black Owned BBQ in Houston
The Black owned BBQ joints in Houston are not just eateries, but also important parts of the city's history and culture. These BBQ restaurants have served as gathering spaces for various occasions, providing a welcoming environment for all. Many of them have been passed down through generations, showcasing recipes that honor African American culinary traditions.
Historically, these BBQ joints flourished in neighborhoods predominantly inhabited by the African American community. With time, their delicious offerings have drawn in Houstonians from every neighborhood. They continue to stand strong, preserving the rich cultural heritage of African American BBQ tradition while serving delectable meals to their customer base.
Noteworthy Black Owned BBQ Restaurants in Houston
Houston boasts a number of highly-rated Black owned BBQ joints that are a crowd favorite. One of the most recognized restaurants is Ray's BBQ Shack. Their delicious slow-smoked meat, cooked over hickory and oak wood, leaves customers coming back for more.
Burns Original BBQ is another family-owned eatery known for their ribs and brisket, carrying a legacy of five decades. Gatlin's BBQ, helmed by a Culinary Arts graduate, offers mouth-watering traditional Southern comfort food with a touch of innovation.
Signature Dishes in Black owned BBQ Restaurants
Signature dishes in Black owned BBQ joints in Houston typically revolve around classic southern comfort food. Slow-smoked meats are a mainstay, including succulent ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausages, etc. These are often paired with tasty sides like beans, collard greens, yams, and mac and cheese.
However, what can truly elevate a BBQ restaurant's reputation is their secret homemade sauces. Adding another layer of complexity to the rich, smoky flavor of their meats, these often coveted sauces vary from sweet to tangy to fiery hot.
Supporting Black Owned BBQ Restaurants
By dining at Black owned BBQ restaurants, customers are making a conscious choice to support these businesses, which contribute to the local economy and community. In doing so, they also get to enjoy some of the most authentic and savory BBQ dishes Houston has to offer.
As cultural institutions, these restaurants deserve and often rely on the local public's supporting patronage. Patrons not only get to taste delicious food but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of African American culinary culture.

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