Houston is losing a barbecue icon. Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, Killen’s Heights, will likely close this July.
Earlier this year, Ronnie Killen, owner and namesake of Killen’s Heights, put his 4,764-square-foot property of the restaurant up for sale on the commercial real estate platform LoopNet.
While rumors since circulated about whether or not a sale was imminent, Killen confirmed to Chron that he is now contracted to sell the Heights property at 101 Heights Blvd. The due diligence period of the contract ends on June 17, wherein which the buyer can scout the property and determine whether or not to fully lock in the sale.
State filings reveal a Pitstop Express, a gas station and convenience store with standing locations in Houston, sales-tax permit at 101 Heights.
If the deal does indeed go through, Killen’s Heights will likely close its doors by July 17, 2026.
Killen told Chron that his decision to sell his Heights restaurant was largely financial, stating that the money he could make in one deal covered up to a year in restaurant operations. Killen also cited his recent health issues, revealing that he recently had to undergo back surgery.
Killen is also focused on elevating Killen’s Steakhouse in Pearland. This June, Killen will temporarily close the location for extensive renovations both physical and internal in pursuit of transforming the space into a Michelin-starred establishment.
Killen’s Heights opened in August 2020 in the space formerly occupied by Hickory Hollow. The restaurant survived the pandemic and in late 2024 received Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. Killen’s retained the Michelin Bib Gourmand the following year.
Here’s what Michelin had to say about Killen’s Heights:
“This Southern standout is an all-or-nothing celebration honoring his grandmother. Sharing is encouraged here, where meals should begin with their spiced jalapeño cornbread skillet or grilled oysters with harissa spiced topping,” the Michelin Guide reads.
“Buttermilk fried chicken with a pot of creamy mashed potatoes delights at lunch, while all of the barbecue favorites like brisket, ribs and turkey, are here too. This is comfort food that rings familiar, satisfies with ease and all but demands for a nap once you’ve cleared the last crumb (but save room for the bread pudding!).”
