In recent years, Brenham has become quite the destination for barbecue aficionados and Texas foodies. With TWO local smokehouses listed on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Joints, and several more with their own following, Brenham is a must-stop on the quest for the best Texas BBQ. To make it easier for your dining tour, we’ve mapped the Brenham Barbecue Trail.
May is National BBQ Month, so it’s the perfect time to make a long weekend of the Brenham BBQ Trail and enjoy all that Washington County has to offer!
A. LJ’s BBQ
Along with being a local favorite, LJ’s has received many accolades and recognition since opening in 2015. LJ’s was recently tapped again by Texas Monthly for its most recent list of Top 50 BBQ Joints. Pitmasters Matt Lowery and Corey Cook were also featured in 2021 on the Today Show with Jenna Bush Hager & Hoda Kotb. Their perfectly smoked meats speak for themselves but don’t forget the sides! LJ’s famous Mac & Cheese, collard greens, German-style potato salad, and beans all deserve a place on the tray.
Local Tip: Top that famous mac & cheese with the brisket! And be sure to grab a complimentary beer from the cooler, featuring local brewer, Brazos Valley Brewing Co.
1407 W. Main St. Brenham, TX 77833 | 979-421-8292;
Open Wed–Sat: 11am–3pm or sell out
B. Nathan’s BBQ
Long known for their ribs, Nathan’s BBQ has been serving up old-school Texas barbecue for decades. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Nathan’s has an extensive menu of meats, sides, and desserts.
Local Tip: Look for live music on Friday nights.
1307 Prairie Lea St., Brenham, TX 77833 | (979) 251-9900 |
Open M-T: 11am-8pm; Fri: 11am-9pm; Sat: 11am-8pm;
Sun: 11am-6pm
C. Pioneer Smokehouse
Pioneer Smokehouse is family-friendly and fun year-round in the heart of Downtown Brenham. In addition to delicious BBQ, they have a wide selection of beer, games on the patio, and seating inside & outside.
Local Tip: The Hobo Nachos are a crowd-pleaser!
309 S. Park St., Brenham, TX 77833 | (713) 876-8416 |
Open Thurs: 11am-2pm, 5pm-10pm; Fri: 11am-2pm, 5pm-10:30pm;
Sat: 11am-10:30pm
D. Truth BBQ
After opening his doors in 2015, Pitmaster Leonard Botello IV’s Truth BBQ has become a fixture on Best BBQ lists around the globe for good reason. Recently named again on Texas Monthly‘s list of Top 50 BBQ Joints, this time Truth rises to No. 3 in the ranks of Texas BBQ royalty. Every meat on the menu is a must-try. But don’t stop with the meat–if you can’t save room for dessert, then order the cake to-go, because you don’t want to miss it!
Local Tip: Bring a hat or sunscreen and a friend to visit with while you wait in line.
2990 US – 290, Brenham, TX 77833 | (979) 830-0392
Open Thurs-Sun: 11am to sellout
E. Chappell Hill Bakery · Deli · BBQ
Chappell Hill Bakery, Deli & BBQ is the perfect stop for a weary road tripper. The meats and meal plates are amazing, and the bakery will make your sweet tooth sing. They are famous for their kolaches, and their BBQ & pie have previously received an honorable mention in Texas Monthly’s coveted list. The dining room is big and can accommodate sizable groups.
Local Tip: Stock up at their market with meats and treats for the rest of your trip!
8900 Hwy 290 E, Chappell Hill, TX 77426 | (979) 836-0910 |
Open Sun – Thurs: 6am-8pm; Fri – Sat: 6am-9pm
F. Chappell Hill Sausage
Chappell Hill Sausage is sold in grocery stores across the state, and they happen to be based right here in Washington County. The meat market also houses a shop and restaurant, featuring their renowned sausage, barbecue, bacon, and other meats. From a burger to the brisket to the fresh smoked bacon, you can’t go wrong at Chappell Hill Sausage.
Local Tip: Order one of their honey-glazed hams for the holidays!
4255 Sausage Ln., Chappell Hill, TX 77426 | (979) 836-5830 |
Store Hours: Open Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm; Sat: 8am-4pm
Restaurant Hours: Open Mon-Fri: 8am-4pm; Sat: 8am-3pm
I’ve eaten at dozens of BBPlaces all over Texas. I have not found oven one better than SPRING CREEK BBQ