Introduction to Texas Monthly’s Barbecue List
On a recent episode of the "What’s Eric Eating" podcast, Texas Monthly barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn joined CultureMap editor Eric Sandler to discuss the magazine’s new list of the 50 best barbecue joints in Texas. The list features seven Houston-area restaurants, with Truth BBQ ranking highest at number nine.
Newcomers to the List
What may surprise Houstonians is which barbecue joints made the cut. Familiar names like Feges BBQ, Blood Bros. BBQ, and Killen’s Barbecue have been relegated to an honorable mentions list. In their place are newer restaurants such as Bar-A BBQ in Montgomery, Rosemeyer Bar-B-Q in Spring, and Brisket & Rice in Cypress. Vaughn and Sandler discussed what stood out about the new Houston restaurants on the list, as well as the honorable mentions.
Discussion of Honorable Mentions
Vaughn shared that Roegels Barbecue Co. in Briargrove almost made the top 50 based on a strong meal he had there. Sandler asked Vaughn whether the magazine felt compelled to choose between Blood Bros. and Brisket & Rice, since they’re both serving an Asian-influenced take on Texas barbecue. Vaughn explained that it wasn’t about two different places serving similar cuisines, but rather about the quality of the traditional barbecue items. He noted that while Blood Bros. offers excellent specials, their straight-up sliced brisket, pork ribs, and sausage didn’t quite measure up to other restaurants in the area.
Statewide Barbecue Trends
After discussing the Houston newcomers, Sandler turned to a few statewide questions. Vaughn explained why Snow’s BBQ in Lexington and Franklin Barbecue in Austin — arguably the two most famous Texas barbecue joints in the world — moved out of the ranked top 10 and into the alphabetized top 50. They also discussed the restaurants that made the top three: Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin, LeRoy & Lewis Barbecue in Austin, and Goldee’s Barbecue in Fort Worth.
Looking Ahead
The conversation concluded with a look ahead to the magazine’s best new list that will be published in 2027, as well as Vaughn’s thoughts on the Houston barbecue pop-up that would have a strong shot at the top 50 if it ever begins serving food at least once per week.
Other Food News
In another episode of the podcast, Sandler and co-host Michael Fulmer discussed the news of the week, including the reopening of Cecil’s Pub. Fulmer, a co-founder of the Houston BBQ Festival, shared his own thoughts on the Texas Monthly list. They also shared first impressions of Silk Road, a new dim sum restaurant in a West U. hotel, and Doko, a new sushi restaurant in Autry Park from the chefs behind Handies Douzo and Aiko.
Conclusion
The "What’s Eric Eating" podcast offers a unique perspective on the Texas barbecue scene, with insights from experts like Daniel Vaughn. By exploring the newcomers to the list, discussing honorable mentions, and looking ahead to future trends, listeners can gain a deeper understanding of the state’s vibrant barbecue culture. Whether you’re a longtime fan of traditional barbecue or excited to try new and innovative takes on the genre, this podcast has something for everyone.
