Pinkerton's BBQ Houston Heights | Texas Barbecue on Airline Dr

Where Pinkerton's started

Pinkerton's Barbecue opened at 1504 Airline Drive in December 2016, and the Heights is where it all began. Founder and pitmaster Grant Pinkerton built the brand here, just north of downtown Houston, smoking Central Texas-style barbecue over post oak and mesquite. The neon sign out front has become a Houston landmark, and this original location is still the flagship of the Pinkerton's family.

What we are known for

Everything is smoked low and slow over post oak and mesquite. Our Copper Creek prime brisket is the anchor, sliced or chopped, alongside beef ribs, glazed and dry rub pork ribs, chopped pork shoulder, turkey, BBQ chicken thighs, and a full sausage lineup including jalapeno, jalapeno cheese, and boudin links. Round out the tray with sides like rosemary bacon mac and cheese, South Texas beans, Grant's potato salad, tangy coleslaw, jalapeno cheese rice, and duck and sausage jambalaya, then finish with bread pudding, Aunt Ruby's blueberry cobbler, or bananas foster pudding. The Houston location has earned a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand and a spot on Texas Monthly's Top 50 BBQ Joints list.

Getting here and parking

The Heights restaurant sits on Airline Drive, minutes from downtown Houston and just up the road from the Houston Farmers Market. It is easy to reach from I-45, I-10, and Loop 610, with parking on site. Whether you are stopping in for a quick lunch or feeding the whole family, it is a straightforward drive from anywhere in central Houston.

Catering across Houston and Galveston

Planning an event? Our Houston team caters across the greater Houston area and Galveston, from backyard gatherings and weddings to corporate lunches and large parties. We bring the same wood-smoked barbecue, sides, and service to your venue. Reach out through our catering request form and we will build a menu that fits your headcount and budget.