2019 - Brenham

With my wife out of town, I made a quick trip to Brenham for some really great barbecue at LJ's BBQ.  Here's the video I made of this adventure:

On our way back home from our Houston barbecue road trip, my wife and I stopped off at LJ's BBQ in Brenham.  But they had sold out for the day and were closed when we got there.  That just gave me an excuse to go back. . .

The Barbecue

For years, Brenham has had one major claim to fame: it’s the hometown of Blue Bell Ice Cream.  Look in the freezer of any Texan and you’ll find a half gallon or so of some flavor of Blue Bell.  But I drove to Brenham for barbeque.

LJ’s BBQ is located in a small white building at 1407 West Main Street.  Their parking lot was crowded when I arrived, the air filled with the sweet smell of barbecue cooking.  I found a parking spot and walked inside.  The dining room was pretty full and there was a small line of people ahead of me, but it moved very quickly.  I was greeted warmly by Matt, a big guy with a huge smile.  He cut off a small sample of brisket as he prepared my order and gave me a taste.  Oh my goodness. . .  I paid my bill, got some tea, pickles, and onions from a side table, then settled in to eat.

As always, I ordered a half pound of moist brisket and a couple of pork ribs.  The brisket was outstanding: great outer bark, rich smoky flavor, super tender.  Each bite was buttery and just melted in my mouth.  Chewing was optional.  Oh my goodness. . .  The pork ribs were also great.  Big and juicy, the meat falling off the bone, each bite a treat.  There was a squeeze bottle of sauce on the table, savory with just a little spicy kick.  It paired well with the meats.  This was some really good barbecue.

After I ate and finished putting my tray and trash away, I got back in line.  When Matt asked me what I needed, I told him I wanted to speak to the manager.  His eyes grew wide, then I told him the barbecue was too easy to eat. I’d put a bite in my mouth and it would simply disappear.  He and the other good folks behind the counter got a good laugh.

LJ’s BBQ – tremendous barbecue served by really nice people.  The next time Texas Monthly publishes their Top 50 list, I suspect there will be a spot on it for LJ’s.  Either way, people have another great reason to visit Brenham. 

I rate this barbecue two Hook ‘Ems!