This story is part of our Best Things in Texas package, which appeared in the December 2025 issue.

I spent the first two months of this year finishing the research for the Top 50 barbecue list we published in June. Those joints have all been well celebrated, so it’s time to highlight some of the many smoked-meat stops I’ve enjoyed since then. My job requires eating barbecue quite often, but these dishes had me feeling like it was hardly a job.

Churro French Toast Brisket Sandwich, at Killen’s BBQ

Cypress, Pearland, The Woodlands

Found at all Houston-area Killen’s BBQ locations, this brisket sandwich is heavy on cinnamon and sugar—sounds strange, but it works.

La Pulga Tray, at Treviño’s Craft Smokehouse

Jacksboro

Five meats and four sides for just $50 feels like a great deal .

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