Profile

Gatlin's BBQ has solidified its reputation as one of the top barbecue destinations in Houston, with a loyal following and a slew of accolades to its name. The restaurant's commitment to traditional Texas-style 'cue is evident in its expertly smoked meats, which are cooked to perfection in an offset smoker fueled by post oak. The ribs, in particular, are a standout, with reviewers raving about their fall-off-the-bone tenderness and deep, smoky flavor. The brisket, too, is a crowd-pleaser, with its generous bark and lean, tender texture. Whether you're a BBQ aficionado or just looking for a delicious, satisfying meal, Gatlin's has something for everyone, from classic sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw to decadent desserts like cobbler.

The atmosphere at Gatlin's is just as impressive as the food, with a cozy, nicely decorated dining room that's perfect for families, groups, or casual dates. The staff is friendly and welcoming, with a warmth and hospitality that's rare in today's fast-paced dining scene. Reviewers consistently praise the service, noting that the staff's effervescent warmth and helpfulness set a convivial tone that makes you feel like you're part of the family. With its pet-friendly outdoor seating area, online ordering, and catering services, Gatlin's is a versatile destination that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a local or just visiting Houston, Gatlin's BBQ is a must-visit destination that's sure to leave you feeling full, satisfied, and eager to return.

As an added bonus, Gatlin's has gained a significant following on social media, with its Instagram-worthy dishes and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the kitchen and pit area. The restaurant's pitmaster has even earned awards and recognition for his craft, cementing Gatlin's reputation as a true BBQ authority. With its long lines and frequent sell-outs, it's clear that Gatlin's is a beloved institution in the Houston food scene, and its loyal fans are willing to wait for a taste of its exceptional 'cue. Whether you're a BBQ newbie or a seasoned pro, Gatlin's is a bucket-list stop that's sure to deliver on its promise of delicious, authentic Texas-style barbecue.

Featured on Exploring BBQ Bucket List Ideas H Town's Smokehouse Heavyweights (Houston). Save this list to your account, or add Gatlin's BBQ to your own bucket list.

Reviews

5 Comments

Overall Rating ★★★★★ 3.4

Lawrence R (Google)

★★★★★

So the service was good but the food was meh. Good ambience but the greens were chewy and bland. The Mac n cheese was again bland. The best thing was the sausage. I tried it but won't be returning. Service was good though.

B.I.G D (Google)

★★★★★

YALL BBQ, IM WITH IT ,IM A SOU SIDER , AND WORK ON THE NAUF ,,BUT THESE GRITS IM NOT FEELIN THEM WHY I LIKE TRADITIONAL GRITS ,WHY IS THERE NOT A REGULAR ORDER THIS SEEM AIKE IT ONLY GIES WITH LIKE SOMETHING OTHER THEN BREAKFAST FOOD MAYBE I SHOULD TRY IT WITH SEA FOOD , BUT I DONT EAT IT... SOO I HAVE 2 GIVE U 3 STARS INSTEAD OF 5 STAR âAND THE SAUSAGE NOT A FAN OF HOW FLAT IT IS ..YO BB Q HANDS IS ACTIVE... HOPEFULLY ON OUR NEXT VISIT MAYBE WE CAN GET TO 5 STARS

Harry Gates (Google)

★★★★★

Gatlin's BBQ presents a tempting tableau of smoked meats, and the siren call of the three-meat plate proved irresistible. For a modest premium over the two-meat option, the opportunity to sample brisket, ribs, and chicken alongside potato salad and baked beans was too good to pass up. My companion ventured into less-charted territory with the dirty rice and smoked corn.The service, it must be said, was a masterclass in Southern hospitality. The staff's effervescent warmth could melt the iciest of dispositions, setting a convivial tone for the meal. While the exterior hinted at a bustling establishment, the efficient system of pagers and ample seating, likely bolstered by a robust takeout business, ensured a surprisingly swift transition from arrival to table.The platter itself was a feast for the eyes, a smoky still life begging to be devoured. My first foray was into the ribs, and they were, without a doubt, the star of the show. Falling off the bone with the slightest provocation, they possessed that elusive balance of smoky depth and tender succulence - a true testament to the pitmaster's art. The lean brisket, generously endowed with bark, delivered on its promise of flavor and tenderness. A slight disappointment, however, came in the form of the white meat chicken, which, while visually appealing, proved drier than desired.The sides, while perfectly acceptable, lacked a certain je ne sais quoi. They served their purpose without venturing beyond the realm of the familiar, save for the dirty rice, which offered a welcome counterpoint to the richness of the meats.In summation, Gatlin's BBQ offers a compelling, if not entirely flawless, barbecue experience. The ribs alone are worth the pilgrimage, and the brisket certainly holds its own. While the chicken and sides could benefit from a touch more innovation, the overall quality and exceptional service make Gatlin's a worthy destination for any carnivore. Next on the agenda: a deeper dive into the sausage offerings, and a repeat performance with those magnificent ribs.

Bryan Hucke (Google)

★★★★★

Sure, the sides were good but you don't come here for the sides. The ribs and brisket were both cooked perfectly. Gatlin's dining room is nicely decorated, clean, and comfortable. Staff is friendly and helpful.

J. Williams (Google)

★★★★★

I'm sorry, but the barbecue is just okay. The same goes for the sides. We had macaroni and cheese, potato salad, fries, yams, dirty rice, greens, and corn. The only good sides were the corn and yams. The fries were decent. Everything else was just okay. I raved about Gatlin's F&F when I reviewed it, so I thought this place would be just as good, but it disappointed me. Aside from that, the customer service is exceptional!!! They treated us and talked to us like we were family. If i were to go back, it would be because of the service.