Pinkerton’s Barbecue Expands to The Heights
Houston’s renowned Pinkerton’s Barbecue, a consistent fixture on Texas Monthly’s coveted Top 50 BBQ list, is set to significantly expand its footprint within the city. Pitmaster Grant Pinkerton is bringing his celebrated slow-smoked meats and innovative barbecue vision to a new, larger location in the bustling Heights neighborhood, promising an elevated dining experience for local enthusiasts.
A New Chapter for Houston BBQ
Pinkerton’s Barbecue has long been a destination for serious barbecue lovers, known for its prime brisket, delectable pork ribs, and unique sides, all served from its original North Main Street location. The restaurant’s reputation for quality and dedication to the craft has garnered a loyal following, making it a cornerstone of Houston’s vibrant food scene.
The upcoming expansion marks a significant milestone, not just for the brand but for Houston’s evolving barbecue landscape. Grant Pinkerton’s vision for this new outpost is to blend the traditional flavors with a more modern, full-service dining concept, a step beyond the counter-service model often associated with classic Texas barbecue joints.
The Heights: A Grand New Home
The new Pinkerton’s Barbecue will open its doors at the Market at Houston Heights development, specifically at 2901 Studewood Street. This prime location, formerly home to Studewood Hall and Johnny McElroy’s, positions the restaurant in a high-traffic, desirable neighborhood, making it more accessible to a broader range of Houstonians.
The facility itself is a major upgrade in scale and amenities. Boasting over 5,000 square feet of indoor space and an additional 1,000 square feet for a sprawling patio, this new location is considerably larger than its North Main predecessor. This expansive setting will allow for a more comfortable and versatile dining environment, complete with televisions to catch local sports, contributing to a lively, community-focused atmosphere.
Enhanced Dining Experience and Menu Innovations
One of the most anticipated features of the Heights location is the introduction of a full-service bar. This means patrons can enjoy a carefully curated selection of cocktails, alongside beer and wine, designed to complement the rich flavors of Pinkerton’s barbecue. This move positions the restaurant not just as a quick-stop barbecue joint but as a destination for a complete night out.
Additionally, the menu is set to see exciting expansions. While all the classic favorites like moist brisket, jalapeño cheese sausage, and juicy ribs will remain, guests can look forward to new offerings such as a smoked turkey club sandwich, brisket pastrami, boudin, and irresistible pork belly poppers. A dedicated takeout window will also streamline service for those on the go, ensuring efficiency without compromising quality.
Pitmaster Pinkerton is investing in advanced equipment, including a custom rotisserie smoker, to ensure consistent quality and handle the higher volume expected at this larger establishment. This commitment to both tradition and innovation underlines the restaurant’s ambition to define “third-generation barbecue” – honoring the past while embracing the future of dining.
Comparing Pinkerton’s Locations
To help Houston locals understand what to expect, here’s a quick comparison of the two Pinkerton’s Barbecue locations:
| Feature | North Main Street Location | The Heights Location (Opening Early 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Service Style | Counter Service | Full-Service Dining, Dedicated Takeout Window |
| Bar Offerings | Limited Selection | Full-Service Cocktail Bar |
| Size (Approx.) | Standard BBQ Joint | Over 5,000 sq ft indoors, 1,000 sq ft patio |
| Menu | Core Barbecue Menu | Expanded Menu (e.g., Smoked Turkey Club, Brisket Pastrami) |
| Ambiance | Classic, Casual | Modern, Lively (with TVs), “Third Generation BBQ” feel |
What This Means for Houston’s Food Scene
The expansion of Pinkerton’s Barbecue into The Heights is a testament to Houston’s booming culinary landscape and the growing demand for high-quality, Texas-style barbecue. It signifies a maturation of the local barbecue scene, where traditional techniques are being married with modern dining expectations. This move will undoubtedly strengthen Houston’s reputation as a top-tier food city, offering residents and visitors more diverse and accessible options for experiencing world-class smoked meats.
As the planned early 2025 opening approaches, the anticipation will only build. This new location is poised to become a new focal point for barbecue lovers, community gatherings, and anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in The Heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where will the new Pinkerton’s Barbecue be located?
The new location will be at 2901 Studewood Street, within The Market at Houston Heights development. - When is the new Pinkerton’s Barbecue expected to open?
The restaurant is slated to open in early 2025. - What new features can I expect at The Heights location?
It will feature a full-service cocktail bar, expanded menu items like a smoked turkey club and brisket pastrami, a dedicated takeout window, and a much larger indoor dining area with a spacious patio. - Will the original North Main Street location remain open?
Yes, the original Pinkerton’s Barbecue on North Main Street will continue to operate as usual, complementing the new Heights outpost. - How will the new location’s service differ?
Unlike the counter-service model at the original, The Heights location will offer full-service dining alongside its takeout window, providing a more traditional sit-down restaurant experience.
This expansion is more than just a new restaurant; it’s an evolution for one of Houston’s most beloved barbecue institutions, setting a new standard for how we experience smoked meats in the city. Make sure to put it on your must-try list for early 2025.
Pinkerton Expands to Heights
