5 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Pearland, Texas to Try

Pearland sits just outside Houston, and its barbecue roots run deep into the Gulf Coast soil.

Here, Texan staples—smoky brisket, tender pork, and spicy sausage—meet the diverse flavors of Houston’s broader food scene.

In Pearland, you’ll find family-run smokehouses, BBQ shacks run by next-generation pitmasters, and a neighborly vibe that keeps regulars coming back. If you love robust flavors and superb Southern hospitality, this town is a barbecue goldmine.

1. Central Texas Style BBQ

A Pearland institution since 1969, this family-owned spot wears its old-school Texan heart on its sleeve.

Their brisket is pure traditional, sliced thick and feathered with smoke, while pork spareribs are tender, not oversauced, and smokier than a Texas sunset.

It’s a cafeteria-line experience—order your meat by the pound, grab classic sides from the buffet line (potato salad, beans, coleslaw), and be sure to try the sausage with a squeeze of the tangy house-made sauce.

2. Killen’s Barbecue (Nearby in Pearland)

Chef Ronnie Killen has put Pearland on the national BBQ map—his joint draws long lines and nationwide acclaim.

Beef brisket here is legendary: a velvet fat cap, bold bark, and textbook smoke ring.

Spareribs, turkey, pulled pork, and house-made sausage all hold their own, but be sure to grab the creamed corn (often said to be the best in Texas). Save room for banana pudding and bread pudding for a finish that’s pure Southern comfort.

3. Big Horn BBQ

At Big Horn, the “BBQ, Burgers & More” motto is real, but brisket and ribs are the star.

Their mesquite-smoked meats come with a range of sauces—from sweet and tangy to a full-on spicy house blend.

Smoked turkey is juicy and flavorful, and the loaded baked potatoes are local lunch legends.

Families love the casual, western-ranch vibes, and the drive-thru makes for easy BBQ-on-the-go.

4. Bayou Grill & Eatery

This fusion spot threads the needle between classic Texas smoke and Gulf Coast street food.

Their brisket tacos, rib platters, and Cajun-rubbed chicken wings perfectly reflect Pearland’s cross-cultural roots.

Come for the barbecue combo trays but stay for the dirty rice, fried okra, and rotating specials that might feature etouffee or jambalaya. A much-loved local secret.

5. Jax Burgers, Fries & Shakes

While best-known for its burgers, Jax also makes a mean BBQ sandwich featuring tender, house-smoked brisket or pulled pork piled high on a soft bun.

For a quick meal with a hit of real Texas flavor (and killer hand-cut fries), it’s a Pearland favorite—especially for families and those craving a burger-and-barbecue hybrid meal.