Planning a Texas BBQ tour is a brilliant way to explore the state, where everything is bigger, especially our love for BBQ!
Each city and region has its unique approach to meat preparation and sides, so you’re in for a treat.
There is no better place to start, in our opinion, than in Houston. BBQ is a core part of our identity here and focuses on the low and slow smoking technique (more on that later).
Houston’s love for BBQ has been passed down through generations, with smoking techniques influenced by Czech, German, and Mexican traditions. Over the decades, families have honed their own rub and pitmaster techniques.
Oh, and let us introduce ourselves; We’re Goode Co. Barbeque, an icon of Houston BBQ since the 1970s! We know our stuff and are widely considered the best Texas BBQ in Houston!
Why Start Your Texas BBQ Tour in Houston?
Wherever you’re arriving from, Houston is a great place to start your Texas BBQ tour.
Here, you’ll find the most diverse BBQ scene in the State. There’s a blend of classic Central Texas brisket, Southern Mexican-Texan BBQ, Cajun-Texan influences, and even Viet-Texan!
Despite all of those influences, though, Houston BBQ restaurants like to stay rooted in classic techniques. Especially here at Goode Co. Barbeque!
Most importantly, we cook our meats low and slow over mesquite wood. That means the brisket is extra tender and has a gorgeous mesquite bark flavor that you just can’t replicate elsewhere, especially in states that lack mesquite wood!
Other cities and regions of Texas have their own approaches, but they’re all in our shadow.
The Historic Legacy of Goode Co. Barbeque
Starting your Texas BBQ Tour in Houston also gives you the chance to enjoy some history.
That’s because Goode Co. Barbeque is one of the longest-standing barbeque restaurants in the state.
Back in 1977, our founder, Jim Goode, decided to open a small barbeque joint in the heart of Houston. With more motivation than money, they worked hard to serve barbeque the way it ought to be: fresh, traditional, tender, and at an honest price.
Jim never bent his rules and would even sleep at the restaurant, ensuring the meat was protected and smoking all night long.
Today, Jim Goode’s legacy lives on. It’s still family-owned and is an icon of Houston’s food scene. That same old barn we opened in ‘77 is now our ‘Original Location’. It’s rich in history, from the decor on the walls to our sausage recipes and original barbeque sauce.
What Makes Goode Co. Barbeque a Must-Visit Stop on Your Texas BBQ Tour
So, once we’ve convinced you that you’ve got to come to Houston. Here’s why you should get a taste of Goode Co. Barbeque.
Firstly, we’ve never copied anyone. We’re not here to be trendy or give you some modern twist on barbeque. You won’t find electric grills, a beard longer than our tongs, or truffles on our brisket.
Because we do it the right way! The real Texan way:
Authentic Meat Smoking Techniques
Jim Goode’s original rules are still followed today. First, every piece of meat has to be slow-smoked over real mesquite wood. That gives every meat a strong, savory, slightly sweet, and smoky kick (especially our brisket’s outer bark).
Everything is Homemade
Then there’s our craftsmanship. Everything is handmade. Every delicious side of Potato Salad, Mac and Cheese, Jalapeno Cheese Bread, Jalapeño Pinto Beans, Jambalaya Texana, and Austin Baked Beans is made right here.
Even our sausages are crafted by hand!
Authentic Local Recipes
It’s all based on our long-standing recipes, which we know people love, because families of all ages have told us so for decades!
Take our Czech sausages, for example. We craft these on-site every day, using a recipe given to Jim Goode by an old Czech immigrant who made Texas his home. You won’t find that taste of history at all these trend-hunting restaurants!
And all our meat and wood are locally sourced. You’ll enjoy USDA beef and the true aromas of Houston mesquite wood.
A True Houston Vibe
Our restaurants feel like Houston should. We’re not trying to be something we’re not. That means you get an authentic taste of Texas!
Our restaurants are decked out in classic decorations, from old Texan memorabilia to rustic antiques that add to our old-school BBQ hall feel.
Our Famous Hospitality
Houston has a reputation for its warm hospitality. We’re proud to continue that. To be honest, it comes naturally! All our staff will greet you with a warm smile that feels like home.
Our restaurant is a laid-back, no-pretense environment. So, bring the kids, wear your casual clothes, and sip on an iced cold beer while laughing as loud as you wish!
Our Signature Famous Food
But after all that, you need good food! Here’s our best Texas BBQ dishes:
Brisket
Our pride and joy, brisket, is cooked low and slow for around 12-15 hours over mesquite wood. The result is a carving of tender, melt-in-mouth beef strips with a smoked exterior and irresistible soft interior.
We recommend it with potato salad, mac and cheese, or a loaded baked potato! You have to try it!
Sausage
Whether you go for our Czech sausage or Jalapeno Sausage, any sausage fan won’t be disappointed. Grilled over mesquite wood, they’re a great blend of Texan immigration influences – from both Europe and south of the border.
Ribs
Ribs should slide off the bone with one bite. No cutlery is necessary. That’s our standard. You haven’t experienced real ribs until you’ve had them like that!
Jalapeno Cheese Bread
Our Jalapeno Cheese Bread is a spicy, tangy taste of the south, and our signature item served with every meal. It cleans up any remaining juices or sauces and is likely to leave you wanting a second dose.
Famous Pecan Pie
Our Pecan Pie is no ordinary pie. It’s an authentic Houston Pecan Pie. So it’s bigger and gooier than anything else you’ll find on your Texas BBQ tour.
It’s chock-full of fresh Texas pecans, harvested from the banks of the Brazos River!
Tips for Starting Your Texas BBQ Tour at Goode Co. Barbeque
Convinced? Here’s how to make your visit as Goode as possible.
When to Visit:
- Weekday lunch (11–1) for the freshest brisket with a local crowd.
- Late afternoon (3–5) for minimal lines and relaxed dining.
- Early weekend lunch (11:00–12:30) before peak family rush.
- Dinner is suitable for any time!
Which Location?
- Kirby Drive (Original): Near Rice University / Museum District
- Our original location.
- Great for anyone staying in central Houston, Upper Kirby, Montrose, or the Galleria area.
- Memorial Location: 8911 Katy Freeway
- Easy access off I-10.
- Perfect for anyone staying near Memorial City or the Energy Corridor, or for those driving in from west Houston/Katy.
- Highway 290 Location: Northwest Freeway
- Ideal for anyone staying in Cypress or Jersey Village, or for those heading to/from Austin or College Station.
We Do Pick-Up and Delivery!
Want to eat on the move, or get your BBQ delivered to your hotel? Then we’re happy to help with our online delivery and pick-up. Simply click ORDER ONLINE at the top of the page to get started.
Visit Goode Co. Barbeque Today on Your Texas BBQ Tour
With nearly 50 years of Texas BBQ traditions and respect, Goode Co. Barbeque is an icon of Houston, Texas, food. We welcome you to visit us, from wherever you’re travelling, for that authentic experience.
We’re happy to cater to all ages and needs, and love welcoming folks from near and far! If you have any questions, just give us a call on the numbers found at the bottom of this page.
See you soon, at the best Texas BBQ in Houston!