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Killen's BBQ is a standout in the Texas BBQ scene, with a reputation for serving some of the best 'cue in the state. Located in Shenandoah, just outside of Houston, this modern BBQ joint has gained a loyal following for its tender, flavorful meats and generous portions. The menu is a love letter to Texas-style BBQ, with classics like brisket, ribs, and pulled pork taking center stage. The brisket, in particular, is a highlight, with reviewers raving about its perfect marbling and rich, smoky flavor. Sides like creamy mac and cheese and crisp coleslaw are also impressive, and the pork belly burnt ends are a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in some meaty, sweet, and savory goodness.

The atmosphere at Killen's BBQ is casual and welcoming, with a clean and modern decor that's perfect for families and groups of all sizes. The service is friendly and efficient, even during busy times, and the staff are happy to help navigate the menu and make recommendations. With a bar serving up craft beer and a pet-friendly outdoor seating area, Killen's BBQ is a great spot to relax and enjoy some delicious BBQ with friends and family. Whether you're a local or just visiting the area, Killen's BBQ is a bucket-list stop for any BBQ enthusiast, and its reputation as one of the best BBQ joints in Shenandoah is well-deserved. With online ordering and catering available, it's easy to get your fix of Killen's BBQ, even if you can't make it to the restaurant in person.

In addition to its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, Killen's BBQ has also gained a reputation for its pitmaster awards and social media fame, with many reviewers noting that the restaurant is often featured on Instagram and other platforms. While this can sometimes mean long lines and sell-outs, the staff at Killen's BBQ are well-equipped to handle the demand, and the restaurant's popularity is a testament to its commitment to serving up high-quality, authentic Texas-style BBQ. Whether you're a BBQ aficionado or just looking for a great meal, Killen's BBQ is definitely worth a visit - just be sure to get there early, as this popular spot is sure to draw a crowd.

Featured on Exploring BBQ Bucket List Ideas Aggieland to Snow's Smokehouses (College Station, Lexington). Save this list to your account, or add Killen's BBQ to your own bucket list.

Reviews

5 Comments

Overall Rating ★★★★★ 4.6

Emily Young (Google)

★★★★★

OH. MY GOODNESS. This was my first time eating here and it is PHENOMENAL!!!!! Their pulled pork literally melts in your mouth and has some of the best flavor I've ever had on meat. The meat melts in your mouth. All the employees are so sweet and so kind. Always willing to help. You can truly tell that the food is made with love. I can't wait to come back soon!!! Save the Woodlands location!!!!

Partha Sanyal (Google)

★★★★★

Amazing. Walked in and was immediately greeted by the friendly folks at Killen's. Never dined there before, and they recommended the burnt ends... wow. Incredible.The brisket was obviously five star, as were the sides that accompanied the combo. Food was everything I'd hoped for.Atmosphere is interestingly different from typical BBQ joint; we sat inside with the family in a clean, welcoming space and it was perfect for families.Highly recommend! Make sure to thank the great staff at Killen's.

mari m (Google)

★★★★★

I had the brisket. It was sliced too thick. It definitely lack the flavor that you would want to pay $24 for. It was tender. I had 3 sides and the bacon Brussel sprouts were delicious.

Hannan Zafar (Google)

★★★★★

Killen's BBQ is hands-down one of the best barbecue spots you'll find, setting the gold standard for Texas-style BBQ. From the moment you walk in, the mouthwatering aroma of smoked meats gets your appetite going, and the casual, welcoming vibe makes it the perfect spot for a hearty meal.The brisket is the star of the show—tender, perfectly marbled, and packed with smoky flavor. The bark on the outside is a masterpiece in itself. The ribs are another standout, with meat that falls off the bone and a glaze that's just the right balance of sweet and savory. For sausage lovers, the jalapeño-cheddar sausage is a must-try.Sides are just as impressive. The mac and cheese is creamy and rich, the coleslaw is crisp and refreshing, and the creamed corn adds a touch of indulgence to the meal. Don't skip dessert—the banana pudding is the perfect Southern finish.Service is friendly and efficient, even during busy times, and the portions are generous. While there might be a bit of a wait, it's worth every minute. Killen's BBQ isn't just a meal; it's an experience that showcases what Texas barbecue is all about.If you're a barbecue fan, Killen's is a bucket-list destination. Highly recommend!

Pete Kreitchet (Google)

★★★★★

When I walked in and said, "I'm from Boston", and the guy behind the counter came back with, "Oh, so you came all this way and didn't bring me a lobster roll?", I knew I was in the right place. ðŸ˜ðŸ˜ðŸ˜And while I live in New England, I've been around the country a fair bit, and I've had me some barbecue. From Virginia and Kentucky to the Carolinas and even Florida, I'm always on the lookout for a smoker next to a gas station. But when it comes to Texas, well, you gotta put on your big boy pants.Chef Ronnie Killen has apparently been cooking all his life, to the point where he's got a whole empire of different restaurants in the Houston area. And so it wouldn't be that surprising to find out that after adding so many locations to his restaurant enough that the quality of the food might start to slide. Nope! That was not my experience at all at The Woodlands location. Every meat I tried was delicious, and the sides were no joke either. I wish I had room for dessert, but who are we kidding? I would just go back and get more BBQ! The standout for me was the pork belly burnt ends, or as I like to call them, meat candy! They were so good, I would just go back and order as many of those ends as they would give me.Yes, yes, it's Texas, and you know a "better" joint right down the street from this one, but I'm here to say, you better put some respect on Killen's BBQ, because the crew slinging 'Q in The Woodlands are not to be trifled with! They are the real deal!