Get into Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston! 🔥
Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston Reviews
Great local BBQ must try
When we came to Houston from RI, we asked for local recommendations on a BBQ. This restaurant came up several times. We highly recommend this place. The food was amazing!!
Place has some great bbq.
The brisket was so good with the onions, pickle, and pepper. Loved every bite. The smoked surgery breast was surprisingly very tasty. I really enjoyed it. The pork ribs were good. We had the glazed and the dry rub. Both were very impressive. The coleslaw was perfect complement to all the meats. Mostly self serve and it's perfect for what it is. The bar had some amazing bourbons. Loved the 12 yr Weller.
Amazing food.
Their beef brisket is cooked to perfection, moist, and flavorful. It's the best I've had. The beef ribs and sides were great, too. The place is always crowded. The service is quick. The entire staff were nice and friendly. It's a must to visit this place when in Houston.
Service was quick and food was good.
Not a huge fan of bbq style food but the rib meat fell off the bone it was so tender, the banana pudding was also a highlight. It is a lot of food and I thought it was pricey. We paid 100+ for beef ribs, brisket and Mac and cheese. Not being a bbq lover I would say I would have Pinkerton's again.
Best BBQ
Amazing bbq joint - we are from England and this was our 1st BBQ experience - we started in houston and road tripped to Nashville we went to many BBQ joints along the way but no where compared to how good this place was . Cutting the meat fresh in front of you made it extra special . i think my husband will go on about this place for ever ! must try
I was a bit underwhelmed eating here.
I am not a Texan. Historically my first exposure to BBQ in Texas was Blacks in Austin. I found that really good. So I'm happy to hear input. But as for my experience here. It was expensive. Like very expensive. I found Pinkerton's overpriced and slightly above average? Their meat was pretty wet. I'm not sure if that's a Texas thing, Houston thing or because it was warmed via some sort of steaming process once it came off their smoker. I didn't see a smoker outside the building making me assume the smoking took place in a kitchen. That's not to say they didn't have one, I just didn't see it. I didn't get a lot of bark on the brisket. I wouldn't go back. As far as the rating I don't want to give it anything more or less than 3 stars because it was good - but not great, overpriced, wet, and just overall kind of OK. Maybe this is a stylistic thing. If so, it's not for me.
I like bbq, but the lines and crowds are honestly such a
I like bbq, but the lines and crowds are honestly such a turn off. We parked on the street because the lot is tiny. My bf and I came on a Saturday at around 5:30p and thankfully there wasn't much of a line, but the restaurant was packed so we got to-go. This may be the reason the food turned out to be a flop, despite all the rave reviews. We had a 30 minute drive home and they gave us an aluminum container, so maybe the food steamed itself and dried out on the drive, because the brisket and ribs were dry...The sausages were good, but didn't taste like anything special honestly. The best thing we got was the chopped brisket sandwich. It was delicious and tender. That didn't seem to dry out on the drive. The coleslaw was awful though. It was literally just chopped cabbage with the thinnest sauce that did nothing for it. Worst coleslaw I've ever had. I guess if you don't want to deal with the crowds inside or the heat at the outdoor tables, you could eat in your car? That probably would've been better. But other reviews mention doing to-go and didn't seem to have problems, so maybe it was also just a bad day. Idk.
It was a small place (bar area, community seating).
They service was good, they took their time to get our order and helped us decide what/how much we wanted. The down side is the food. Meat was tender but not much flavor. The Mac and cheese and potato salad had good flavor. The jambalaya was not good in my opinion. I was going to get the other rice choice (cheesy rice) - but jambalaya was different and I already had two kinds of Mac and cheese. Pickles were super sour but crunchy. The windows didn't have shade from the afternoon sun so I had to have a napkin wipe my sweat. Tables are cleaned off after each customer so it depends on the customers to be the wait staff after they are done eating. Would I go back, sure BUT I am not running to try them again.
One of the best BBQ places in Houston, Beef ribs are very
One of the best BBQ places in Houston, Beef ribs are very good Brisket always excellent All sides recommend
I was in the area and had a taste for bbq.
This place had at least 45-55 people standing in line before they opened. I ordered a brisket sandwich, (sm) potato salad and a pound of pork ribs. The food was good but I've had much better. The cost was $47. Which is a ridiculous price for what was ordered. I will return but I would not buy and meat's by the pound.
Tried out Pinkerton's for the first time today, and it
Tried out Pinkerton's for the first time today, and it really lived up to its expectations!! For the sides we got the Mac n cheese and coleslaw. The Mac n cheese was really good, and it had bacon bits throughout. The coleslaw tasted like your ordinary coleslaw so nothing stands out there. The brisket was so moist, the melt in your mouth kinda vibe. The pork rib had a nice sweet glaze on the outsides and was also soft to the point where the meat would fall off the bone! The charred parts had a jerky like texture. Sausage was on the tougher side, and it tasted extra salty to me. I'd probably just stick to ribs and brisket next time. The original sauce is sweet and tangy and great for sandwiches! The inside is relatively small, and the tables are close together, so it can get really hot with all the body heat and the sun beaming through the windows. My brother was sweating profusely lmao. They need some fans or something up in there! Other than that, everything was great. Can't comment on the service since it's a quick order up at the counter interaction. They do have a bar at the front. Parking spaces in the lot are pretty limited so do note that street parking is an option as well. May just require a short walk.
I was in Houston on a work trip, and ventured to
I was in Houston on a work trip, and ventured to Pinkerton's with a group of 5. No issues with parking, no issues for seating, and quick service!! The food was awesome,we had 1 in our group that is a picky eater, and he raved about the turkey and macaroni and cheese. Will definitely be back next time!!
Came here back in January and loved the food so much that
Came here back in January and loved the food so much that they are catering our wedding in 31 days!
Good BBQ in Houston TX
We went to Pinkerton bbq place for early dinner, brisket, pork rib and chicken was very tender and not dry. The side dish bean, coleslaw and potatoes salad very good. We're very pleased with service and quality of food. I truly recommend stopping by Pinkerton bbq place when visiting Houston you won't regret it.
Houston BBQ Done right
Think this spot gives Pecal Lodge a run for its money in terms of best BBQ in Texas. Ribs were better here as were the sides! I would say the brisket was a little dry for my liking but soft and flavorful. Place itself is really cute, like an old home converted into a restaurant space. I would definitely go back on future trips to Texas. Now to Terry Black's in Austin..
Expensive, good flavors
$41 for BBQ for 1 person no alcohol was somewhat steep so value is not something that was offered. BBQ sauce was really good. Ribs dis fall off the bone, good meat quality. Tri tip was also very good. Had 3 small sides, Mac cheese, coleslaw and beans and they were all meh
Solid barbecue
It seems like this spot is a locals favorite. All of my colleagues who live in Houston recommended this place for dinner. Came here on Thursday around 7pm and the place was packed with the line going out the door. The bar area has a great selection of beers and fantastic selection of bourbon. The barbecue is great. The sliced brisket has a great bark and good smokey taste. The rib meat easily separates from the bones. I recommend getting the ribs glazed for the extra flavor. They do have multiple sauces but only the original can be found on the tables. Ask for the other two to try. There is plenty of seating area in the main dinning room but in case you like to enjoy the nice weather outside they also have an outdoor patio area with large picnic tables on the side of the restaurant.
Best BBQ!
The best BBQ we have ever had! Worth the wait in line, we recommend the beef ribs and potato salad. The meat had great flavor and the perfect crust. It really didn’t need sauce but their sauce was great too!
Visited Texas for my first time and wanted to try Texas
Visited Texas for my first time and wanted to try Texas Bbq! The bbq was really good! And priced fairly as someone who is used to California prices. Star of the show was the rub they used on their ribs. Very rich in flavor. The brisket was very tender and juicy. The sides were average. No wait when we came in on a Friday afternoon. They were out of beef ribs very early though so come quick if you would like to try those. Staff was very friendly and our trays of food were ready within minutes.
Ppl walking up to eat and they're closed.
I can't imagine someone coming and ubering here. They're time is not accurate and need to be updated
Voted one of the best BBQ joints in Texas and for good
Voted one of the best BBQ joints in Texas and for good reason! The Brisket, Pork Shoulder and Jalapeño sausage was all delicious. The BBQ brisket sandwhich was absolutely excellent! The queso rice was nice, but the bbq beans and potato salad was especially delicious. It's important to note FOOD SELLS OUT EARLY! We arrived to the restaurant on a Tuesday at 6pm and they ran out of over half the menu items at that time. By 6:30pm the restaurant was sold out for the night.
20 OUT OF 10.
This place was amazingg. The ladies that took our order were so welcoming and accommodating. The brisket was out of this world. The flavor was perfect. That chessy tater casserole was insanely good. I'm definitely coming back!
Food is good.
Mac and cheese with brisket in it was good. The beef rib was super pricey. Bring your wallet. Spent 55$ for just myself. Had one beef rib and the Mac and cheese. Not a bunch of meat on my rib but probably try tge brisket next time.
Pinkerton's has been on my bucket list for quite some time!
Pinkerton's has been on my bucket list for quite some time! As one of the top rated Houston bbq joints, I knew I would not be disappointed. Top tier items: Pork ribs Pulled pork Jalapeño and cheese sausage Potato salad (if you like mustard) Banana pudding (so damn good) Communal picnic style seating indoors. I love the Texas vibe.
The texture and flavors were mind boggling.
The ribs were unreal, wasn't able to try the beef ribs because they run out quick! But the other proteins Did Not disappoint!
Food is great! I ordered brisket and pork ribs.
Brisket is great and their pork ribs are awesome! The Mac n cheese is meh. I still recommend this place and definitely will go back.
Awesome barbecue!! Busy location on a popular street.
This place gets busy with a long line, but it moves quick!! Seating is tight with shared tables. The Mac and cheese, jalapeño sausage, and fatty brisket was very good. Egg salad and jambalaya was ok. The lean brisket wasn't as good but the fatty parts had really good flavor. Highly recommend!!
Pinkerton's BBQ is a must.
Possibly the best bbq I've ever had. Better than Terry Black's BBQ and Franklin's BBQ in Austin. The ribs, chopped pork shoulder, and jalepeno cheddar sausages all were A+. The brisket was fall apart tender, however I think it lacked flavor in comparison to their other items. I'm brown so i'm hopeful for seasoning throughout. I'm sure if you're a brisket fan you'll like theirs, but pepper, smoke and beefyness isn't enough flavor for me. Also had the jambalaya (B+), bacon mac and cheese (B), and potato salad (B).
Outstanding
We got there late enough to miss out on Brisket but it was still outstanding. Pork ribs and pulled pork were excellent, beans were great, bread pudding was over the top. So glad we went
Texas BBQ Enjoyed
Visiting Houston for the National College Football Championship game and had to have some BBQ. Found this was a great place. We had the brisket, turkey, rib, and sausage, which were all very good. The sides of mac/cheese, green beans, cold slaw and corn bread again were tasty. Enjoyed sitting on the patio to enjoy our food. Liked the ability to order the various meat choices.
Best barbecue I have eaten
By far, the best barbecue, I’ve eaten. Theplace is busy, and I can see why. We ordered the coleslaw, potato salad, and Texas beans, and all were so tasty. We also ordered the brisket, which was moist and amazing, the pork ribs, which were equally amazing, and the sausage which everyone also loved. To finish off, we had the bread pudding, which was delicious. The barbeque sauces perhaps the tastiest barbeque sauce I have eaten so I bought a couple bottles to take home. Can’t wait to go back.
The best BBQ I have ever eaten!
We stopped by Pinkerton's for lunch based upon the reviews and were not disappointed! The ribs were the best I have ever had. They were melt in your mouth tender and the flavor was spectacular. The brisket is excellent and the potato salad was the best. A highly recommend. I would not leave Houston without trying it.
Some of the very best brisket in town.
Outstanding brisket and pork ribs. The moist brisket here is consistently superb. Well marbled, fat renders just right, good bark, good smoke flavor. Without question one of the top 6 barbeque joints in the city limits. This is about the 5th time I have been to this place--4 times in person and once to go. The sides are good too. Service is brisk and friendly.
Tasty Barbecue Done Right
This was my first visit to Pinkerton's. I ordered the moist brisket, turkey, jambalaya, blueberry cobbler, and iced tea. The brisket was tender, smoky, moist, and delicious! The turkey was tender and had a fantastic flavor. It was right on the verge of moist/dry. The jambalaya was a large serving that was tasty and spicy. The cobbler was very good with a sweet crumb topping. The iced tea (sweet & unsweet) were just about perfect. They have indoor and outdoor seating. The service was fast & friendly. The prices are comparable to the other barbecue joints in town.
Great BBQ grill
Loved the casual dining, the food was just amazing our favourites were the pulled pork and the Brisket. It is a 20 minute Uber from downtown Houston.
Awesome BBQ
Outstanding BBQ but better get there early or risk missing out on sold out items like the brisket or ribs. Sauce is outstanding and well worth a bottle purchase. Parking can be tricky so be prepared to walk a bit.
The best Barbecue in the City of Houston.
I would put them side by side with any place in the state. Hands down and I may have a little drool just thinking about them. LOL
The pork ribs are the bomb! Even on the busiest days
The pork ribs are the bomb! Even on the busiest days where the line is out the door, the service is quick and easy, and consistent.Charming spot with your typical country vibe - wood and rustic all the way through.
landed on Friday night and saved our appetite for BBQ.
Woke up got ready and headed out to Pinkertons. Once we got here we found parking in the front and wasn't too many folks around 11am. I thought we were late but luckily we were good. ordered a pd of ribs, brisket and got one beef rib to share for the 4 of us. As soon as we sat down looked back and line was out the door so happy we missed that. The food was delicious. Ribs and Brisket was fall off the bone. The beef rib was ok I thought it was going to be more tender but its ok. it feed all four of us and HANDS DOWN BEST BBQ IN HOUSTON
Fantastic experience, true authentic Houston Barbecue.
Tried just about everything on the menu but the briskett, Texas beans and blueberry cobbler were the stars.
Great spot! They run out of brisket now and again so if
Great spot! They run out of brisket now and again so if that is what you're after make sure to call first.
The ribs were incredible, the rest was ok but not my type
The ribs were incredible, the rest was ok but not my type of sides go early they run out of choices.
Fantastic food here.
The brisket particularly was amazing, but everything was very solid. The mac and cheese, the pulled pork, and the sauce were amazing as well. The line takes a while, but worth the wait for sure, particularly if you get a seat outside!
Delicious BBQ, solid service.
The Mac and cheese and cheesy rice was so delicious, as was the brisket and cheesy jalapeño sausage. Recommend the ranch water for sure.
It was a nice barbecue joint.
Authentic when an f350 pulls up with a trailer full of wood in the back. Brisket was pretty good. The boudin was awesome, and their bean recipe is really solid. Would go back if I was in town again.
Had lunch there yesterday and really enjoyed it I have been
Had lunch there yesterday and really enjoyed it I have been to all the hot spot bbq joints all around the state it was great
Connect with users posting reservations for Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston
AppointmentTrader is a community-driven platform where users can exchange their reservations or leverage their personal relationships with Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston. Buyers can make informed decisions using automated seller ratings, which reflect past transactions and reliability.
Each posting on AppointmentTrader shows you which user submitted it and along with that provides a trackrecord of that user which indicates how much experience
the user has and how many percent of their transactions resulted in them issuing a refund.
If there is no user posting that fits your schedule, you can bid on your preferred time.
Let's say Peter has a great morning and decides to take his three friends to Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston at 6 PM the same day.
He checks the restaurant's website and sees that no reservations are available. He then looks at the Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston page on AppointmentTrader, but finds that there are no user postings either.
That's where the community-driven bid process comes in.
Peter can place a bid on AppointmentTrader, which serves as a reward for any community member who chooses to work on securing the reservation. AT then notifies experienced users who may be able to help.
Step-by-Step Process
1.) Setting a Reward (Bid)
* AppointmentTrader uses historical data to recommend a reasonable reward amount for securing a reservation - let's say $100.
* Peter really wants to go, so he increases the bid (or reward) to $200.
* At this stage, the reservation does not exist yet.
2.) A Community User Picks Up the Bid
* DistinguishedTree58, an experienced AT user, has a strong track record of successfully securing reservations and low refund requests, they receive a notification about Peter's bid.
* DistinguishedTree58 picks up the bid, meaning they will now work on securing the reservation.
* Peter can now talk to DistinguishedTree58 for any questions Peter may have as DistinguishedTree58 user fills the bid.
3.) Finding the Reservation
* DistinguishedTree58 now uses their connections at Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston to secure the table.
* If they successfully get the 6 PM table for four, Peter receives a confirmation that the reservation has been secured.
* If DistinguishedTree58 fails to secure the reservation, the bid is returned to the pool so another user can try.
4.) Payment & Protection
* Once the reservation is secured, DistinguishedTree58 receives the $200 reward which is credited to DistinguishedTree58's AT balance, where users manage their own funds and can withdraw via available payout options such as bank transfer, PayPal, or Zelle.
* Peter can now enjoy the dinner with his friends at Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston!
* As with all transactions on AT, disputes and no-show fees are handled through the platform's community-driven resolution system. Users with a strong track record are incentivized to fulfill bids successfully, and community members can report issues to maintain trust in the marketplace.

Houston's Best Restaurants that are most frequently booked by customers of Pinkerton's Barbecue Houston
Ranked #19 in Houston's Best Restaurants.