Pinkerton’s Barbecue Expands With Second Houston Location Near Montrose and River Oaks

One of Houston’s most celebrated barbecue destinations is growing again. Pinkerton’s Barbecue, the award-winning smokehouse founded by Grant Pinkerton, is preparing to open a second restaurant in Houston, this time in a high-profile area near Montrose and River Oaks.

The new location will occupy the former site of a well‑known neighborhood restaurant along West Alabama Street. Construction is underway, and the concept will build on Pinkerton’s signature mix of traditional Central Texas barbecue, Gulf Coast influences, and an atmosphere built around community gathering.

Pinkerton’s Growth in Houston

Since launching in the Heights in 2016, Pinkerton’s Barbecue has become a staple in the city’s food scene. The restaurant has drawn national recognition for its brisket, ribs, and scratch-made sides, while its founder has expanded the brand with an outpost in San Antonio. The second Houston location marks a significant step in the company’s broader growth strategy, strengthening its presence in densely populated neighborhoods with high demand for elevated casual dining.

The Montrose and River Oaks corridor has seen sustained investment in recent years, with new restaurants, bars, and mixed-use developments reshaping the area. Pinkerton’s offers a complementary fit: a casual but premium concept with a loyal customer base and steady visitor appeal.

Why It Matters

For local diners, the expansion means easier access to one of the city’s most popular barbecue spots without crossing town. For the business community, the move reflects continued momentum in Houston’s dining and hospitality sector, which remains one of the region’s most active segments of small-business growth.

Adding a second Houston location also signals strong long-term demand for chef-driven concepts that blend tradition with regional flavor. As Pinkerton’s continues to expand, it reinforces Houston’s standing as a leading culinary destination in Texas.

What’s Next

Construction continues through the coming months, with an opening date expected after final build-out and permitting. More details on the restaurant’s design, menu additions, and opening events are anticipated as the project advances.

This article is a summary of reporting by The Business Journals. Read the full story here.