Who knew Texas barbecue and artisan chocolate could go so well together? Our first stop on the Texas Barbecue Trail takes us to Old Town Tomball, where Tejas Chocolate + Barbecue has built a reputation for doing things differently. What started as a small bean-to-bar chocolate shop has grown into one of Texas’s most celebrated barbecue destinations, proving that sweet and smoky can live side by side.
Why Tejas Stands Out
When you arrive at Tejas, you’ll notice two things right away: the smell of post oak wood smoke drifting from the pits and the line of people waiting to order. Both are good signs. Tejas has earned recognition far beyond Tomball:
- Named the #6 Best BBQ Joint in Texas by Texas Monthly
- Recognized with a Bib Gourmand by the MICHELIN Guide
- Known for its traditional stick-burner pits, where fire and wood—not gas—control the flavor and texture of the meat
This combination of old-school methods with a willingness to be creative is exactly why Tejas keeps drawing locals, foodies, and even national attention.
Menu Highlights (2025 Favorites)
Tejas is all about bold flavors and carefully crafted dishes. Here are some of the standouts that have barbecue fans raving in 2025:
- Flintstone-sized Beef Ribs – A Friday special, huge, tender, and dripping with flavor, featuring a black pepper bark you can hear crunch.
- Chili Relleno Sausage – A Tex-Mex twist with smoky heat and a cheesy surprise inside.
- USDA Prime Brisket – The centerpiece of any visit. Slow-smoked until the fat renders perfectly, with just the right balance of smoke and seasoning.
- Signature Sandwiches – The Brisket & Blues combines brisket with blue cheese for a bold bite, while the Bird & Bacon layers smoked turkey with crispy bacon.
- Thursday Specials – Pastrami and burnt ends that have developed their own cult following.
Fun Fact
Tejas was founded by Scott Moore Jr., a chocolatier who originally just wanted to share his passion for chocolate. His unexpected shift into barbecue didn’t just succeed; it redefined what a Texas BBQ joint could be. Today, Tejas is known across the state (and beyond) as one of the most innovative smokehouses in Texas, all while staying true to Central Texas traditions.
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