The 2025 Texas Michelin Guide is out. As Michelin’s most beloved city in Texas, Houston’s culinary scene is truly the star of the state. Retaining its Michelin Bib Gourmand in the second edition is Houston’s Pinkerton Barbecue. For those looking to get a taste of its finger-licking Michelin-recognized barbecue, Pinkerton’s is expanding in Space City with a second location.
Following a successful catering business, Grant Pinkerton opened his Pinkerton’s Barbecue brick-and-mortar in Houston Heights in 2016. Pinkerton’s Barbecue was an instant hit, generating over $2 million in revenue within its first nine months.
Since its inception, Pinkerton’s has continued to garner acclaim including Grant Pinkerton himself featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 list for Food and Drink, multiple mentions in Texas Monthly‘s “Top 50 BBQ Joints in Texas”, as well as a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
Here’s what Michelin had to say about Pinkerton’s Barbecue:
“Everyone starts with the hulking beef rib, which often sells out before midday, and thick, melting slabs of prime-grade brisket cooked over mesquite and oak. Like all good barbecue, neither piece wants for sauce. Not to be outdone are the brilliantly tender St. Louis-style ribs, which are glazed to order in a sweet sauce made with dehydrated vegetables. Keep an eye on the back wall where daily specials are written in small print.”
In 2021, Pinkerton expanded with a location in Downtown San Antonio. This year, Pinkerton’s is setting it expanding presence closer to home. Presently, Pinkerton’s plans to open a second location in Houston’s Upper Kirby area. The barbecue joint plans to open shop in the space formerly occupied by 59 Diner at 3801 Farnham St.
The restaurant hopes to open up its second Houston location by the end of this year, though the restaurant originally planned to open this past spring.
Pinkerton’s Barbecue is known for its standout meats, including its Copper Creek Prime Brisket, Beef Ribs, Glazed Pork Ribs, and Sausage. Its sides are also hit, with an incredible lineup of Rosemary Bacon Mac & Cheese, Jalapeno Cheese Rice, South Texas Beans, and Duck & Sausage Jambalaya.