Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ: A Timeless Taste of Houston Barbecue

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ Introduce

In a city overflowing with world-class barbecue, Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ stands out not just for its incredible food, but for its deep-rooted history. Serving Houston since 1935, this establishment is one of the oldest continuously running barbecue joints in Texas. It's more than a restaurant; it's a living piece of Houston history, with its venerated brick pits—the heart and soul of the operation—smoking meats to perfection for nearly a century. The restaurant's recent rebranding to "Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ" perfectly encapsulates its mission: to honor a rich past while evolving with the modern barbecue scene.

The experience at Pizzitola's is a unique departure from the typical barbecue joint. Unlike the cafeteria-style service found at many other places, Pizzitola's offers full table service. This is a rare and highly valued feature, as noted by numerous customers who praise the staff for their attentiveness and friendly demeanor. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and historic, with walls adorned with photos and clippings that tell the story of its long legacy. It’s a place where you can feel the history in every bite, from the perfectly smoked brisket to the legendary pork spareribs. It has become a favorite not just for locals, but also for tourists and families, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

Pizzitola's has managed to stay relevant and beloved for generations by embracing its heritage while also introducing new, creative dishes to its menu. While the traditional meats remain the star of the show, new additions like Brisket Queso and Chips and Smoked Brussels Sprouts have elevated the dining experience. It is a place that truly represents Houston's diverse culinary landscape, blending classic barbecue tradition with contemporary flavors. For anyone looking for an authentic taste of Texas barbecue, combined with top-tier service and a rich sense of history, Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ is an essential stop.

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### Location and Accessibility

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ is conveniently located at 1703 Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77007, USA. This address places it in the bustling Washington Avenue corridor, a central and easily accessible area in the city's inner loop. The restaurant's standalone building and prominent location on Shepherd Drive make it easy to spot and navigate to. Its historic building, originally built in the 1950s after the first structure was displaced by the nearby I-10 freeway, adds to its unique charm and character.

Accessibility is a top priority at Pizzitola's. The restaurant offers a variety of parking options to accommodate all guests, including a free parking garage, a free parking lot, and free street parking. This abundance of parking is a significant advantage in a busy area like Shepherd Drive. Furthermore, the establishment is fully accessible, with a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible parking lot, and wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that all customers can comfortably enjoy their dining experience.

Its central location and extensive parking options make it a convenient spot for lunch or dinner, whether you're a local resident, a family out for a meal, or a tourist exploring Houston's food scene. The combination of easy access and historic ambiance creates a welcoming and stress-free environment from the moment you arrive.

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### Services Offered

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ provides a comprehensive range of services, going beyond a simple restaurant to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

Dine-in: As one of the few barbecue spots in Houston to offer table service, the dine-in experience is a major draw. Guests are seated and served by a friendly and attentive staff, which adds a layer of comfort and professionalism to the meal. This service model is perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience.
Takeout and Curbside Pickup: For those on the go, Pizzitola's offers both traditional takeout and convenient curbside pickup. You can place your order by phone or online and have it ready for a quick and easy pickup. The option for curbside service is especially useful for busy individuals or families who want to grab a delicious meal without leaving their car.
Delivery: The restaurant provides delivery services, bringing their famous barbecue right to your doorstep. This is perfect for those times when you want to enjoy some quality comfort food at home without the hassle of cooking or driving.
Catering: Pizzitola’s is a full-service caterer, making it an excellent choice for events, parties, and corporate lunches. Their expertise in large-scale barbecue preparation ensures that your guests will be treated to some of the best smoked meats and classic sides that Houston has to offer.
Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is a rare but highly appreciated feature for a barbecue place. This allows groups and parties to plan ahead and secure a table, avoiding long wait times, especially during busy lunch and dinner rushes.
Onsite Services: Pizzitola's also offers additional onsite amenities, including a full restroom and Wi-Fi, enhancing the comfort and convenience of the dining experience.

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### Features / Highlights

Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ is a standout for many reasons, from its historic legacy to its exceptional food and service. These highlights are what make it a beloved institution in Houston.

Historic Brick Pits: The restaurant’s most significant feature is its historic brick pits, which have been in use since 1935. These pits are central to the unique flavor profile of their barbecue, imparting a deep, smoky flavor that can't be replicated with modern equipment. This commitment to traditional smoking methods is a major point of pride and a testament to the quality of their food.
Table Service: The provision of table service sets Pizzitola's apart from most barbecue joints. This "old-school" approach to dining provides a more relaxed and comfortable experience, allowing you to focus on the food and conversation rather than waiting in line. The friendly and attentive staff is frequently praised in customer reviews for their outstanding service.
Award-Winning Ribs: Pizzitola's is famous for its Pork Spareribs. They are widely regarded as some of the best in Houston, and for good reason. The ribs are slow-smoked to a tender, juicy perfection, with a simple salt-and-pepper rub that lets the natural flavor of the meat and the smoke shine through.
Diverse and Updated Menu: While honoring tradition, Pizzitola's has also introduced new items to keep up with changing tastes. Their menu now includes creative dishes like Brisket Mac and Cheese and Shepherd Drive Frito Pie. This blend of classic barbecue staples and modern comfort food ensures there’s something for every palate.
Inclusive Atmosphere: The restaurant is known for its welcoming environment. It is described as being family-friendly, and also a transgender safespace and LGBTQ+ friendly, reflecting a commitment to being an inclusive and welcoming place for all members of the community.
House-Made Desserts: No meal is complete without dessert, and Pizzitola's offers some truly special, house-made options. The Mama Pizzitola's Famous Banana Pudding and Fresh Pineapple and Coconut Cake are classic favorites that provide a sweet and satisfying end to a hearty barbecue meal.

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### Contact Information

For more information, to make a reservation, or to place an order, you can contact Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ at the following address and phone number:

Address: 1703 Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77007, USA
Phone: (713) 227-2283 or +1 713-227-2283

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### What is worth choosing

When you visit Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ, your choices are abundant, but there are a few items that are absolutely essential to the experience. First and foremost, you must try the Pork Spareribs. These are the signature dish and a defining part of the restaurant’s history and reputation. They are a testament to the artistry of barbecue and the power of the historic brick pits. Ordering them on their own or as part of a sampler plate is the best way to appreciate their perfect texture and smoky flavor.

The Brisket is another cornerstone of a great Texas barbecue meal. Pizzitola’s brisket is known for being tender and flavorful, and a plate with a combination of sliced brisket and another meat, like the Jalapeño Link Sausage or Pulled Pork, is an excellent way to sample the best of their pits. Don't skip the creative appetizers, especially the Brisket Queso and Chips, which is a rich and savory starter that is an instant fan favorite. For a more unique option, the Brisket Enchiladas, available on Fridays and Saturdays, are a special that showcases a perfect blend of Texan and Mexican culinary traditions.

As for sides, you can't go wrong with the classics like Mustard Potato Salad or Slow-Cooked Pinto Beans. However, the Signature Sides are where Pizzitola’s really shines and demonstrates its evolution. The Smoked Brussels Sprouts and Texas Caviar are highly praised by customers for their fresh and flavorful profiles. Finally, be sure to save room for dessert. The Mama Pizzitola's Famous Banana Pudding is a legendary dish that has been perfected over generations and provides a comforting and sweet end to your meal.

Ultimately, what is truly worth choosing at Pizzitola's is the full experience. It is a place that combines classic, pit-smoked meats with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. The exceptional table service and rich history make it more than just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of Houston’s barbecue culture. It is a place where every bite tells a story and every visit creates a new memory.

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ Menu

STARTERS
Pork Spareribs $14.00
Dive into Houston’s Best Ribs at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, slow-smoked over hickory in our iconic 90-Year-Old Brick Pits for tender, juicy perfection. A staple of Houston BBQ Culture, these pork ribs capture authentic Texas Barbecue essence, seasoned with Houston history in every bite. Perfect as a starter or shareable for smoky bliss.
Queso and Chips $12.50
Kick off your meal with creamy queso and house-made chips, infused with the smoky flavors of our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ. This Texas Barbecue twist on a classic appetizer embodies Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history for an irresistible dip. Vegan-friendly base option—add meats for extra kick.
Brisket Queso and Chips $17.50
Elevate your starter with Brisket Queso and Chips from Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, featuring tender Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket blended into rich queso, served with crispy house-made chips. Smoked in our historic 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, it's a nod to Houston BBQ Culture and authentic Texas Barbecue, seasoned with Houston history.
BBQ Taco Roll Ups $14.50
Choice of Brisket, Pork or Chicken: Wrap up flavor in BBQ Taco Roll Ups at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, stuffed with your choice of Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket, pork, or chicken, all slow-smoked in 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. A fun, shareable starter highlighting Houston BBQ Culture and Texas Barbecue traditions, seasoned with Houston history. Quick and crave-worthy
BBQ Nachos $14.00
Pulled Pork, queso, sour cream, cotija cheese, pickled onions, jalapenos, pico de gallo over house-made chips: Load up on BBQ Nachos from Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, topped with pulled pork smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, plus queso, sour cream, cotija, pickled onions, jalapeños, and pico over house-made chips. This crowd-pleaser celebrates Houston BBQ Culture and Texas Barbecue, seasoned with Houston history. Ideal for sharing.
Jalapeño Cornbread with Cinnamon Butter $7.95
Savor Jalapeño Cornbread with Cinnamon Butter at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, baked with a subtle smoke from our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits for that authentic Texas Barbecue flair. A spicy-sweet side embodying Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history—even our breads get the pit treatment. Vegan unless you pair with Houston's best ribs.

SALADS AND MORE
Ultimate BBQ Chef Salad $18.95
Pit-Smoked Brisket, Turkey and Sausage on a bed of mixed greens, Texas Caviar and avocado tossed in our house-made balsamic vinaigrette: Experience the Ultimate BBQ Chef Salad at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, featuring pit-smoked Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket, turkey, and sausage atop fresh mixed greens with Texas Caviar and avocado, drizzled in house-made balsamic vinaigrette. Infused with smoky essence from our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, this hearty salad celebrates Houston BBQ Culture and Texas Barbecue traditions, seasoned with Houston history in every fresh, flavorful bite.
Smoked Cesar Salad with Chicken $18.75
Smoked-grilled romaine lettuce, avocado, topped with a house-made creamy Chipotle Caesar dressing, croutons and Pit-Smoked Chicken: Indulge in the Smoked Cesar Salad with Chicken from Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, where smoked-grilled romaine and avocado meet house-made creamy Chipotle Caesar dressing, croutons, and tender pit-smoked chicken. Crafted in our historic 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, it blends fresh greens with authentic Texas Barbecue flair, embodying Houston BBQ Culture and seasoned with Houston history for a smoky, satisfying twist on a classic.
Sliced Brisket or De-Boned Chicken $16.50
Served on a bed of mixed greens with tomato, hard boiled egg and croutons, Choice of House-Made Dressing: Opt for Sliced Brisket or De-Boned Chicken at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, presented on mixed greens with tomato, hard-boiled egg, and croutons, paired with your choice of house-made dressing. Featuring Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket or pit-smoked chicken from our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, this salad captures the essence of Houston BBQ Culture and Texas Barbecue, seasoned with Houston history for a light yet flavorful meal.
Small House Salad $6.95
Enjoy the Small House Salad at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, a simple bed of mixed greens with your choice of house-made dressing. Enhanced by the subtle smoky influence of our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, it complements any Texas Barbecue feast, reflecting Houston BBQ Culture and seasoned with Houston history—even our freshest options carry the legacy.
Shepherd Drive Frito Pie $16.95
Block-Chopped Brisket over corn chips, pinto beans, Topped with chili gravy and Serious Sauce: Dive into the Shepherd Drive Frito Pie from Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, layering block-chopped Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket over corn chips and pinto beans, topped with chili gravy and Serious Sauce. Smoked to perfection in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, this bold dish honors Houston BBQ Culture and Texas Barbecue roots, seasoned with Houston history for crave-worthy comfort.
Brisket Mac and Cheese $17.50
Creamy 4 Cheese Mac & Cheese Topped with Block Chopped Brisket: Savor Brisket Mac and Cheese at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, with creamy four-cheese mac topped by block-chopped Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket. Infused with smoky depth from our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, it fuses comfort food with authentic Texas Barbecue, celebrating Houston BBQ Culture and seasoned with Houston history in every cheesy, hearty bite.

MEATS
PORK SPARERIBS $14.00
½ Pound: $14.00 | Pound: $27.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $21.95 Experience the Legendary Spareribs at Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ – A Houston BBQ Icon! For 90 years, we’ve perfected the art of St. Louis-style pork spareribs, a cornerstone of Houston BBQ Culture since 1935. Our historic 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, crafted by founders John and Leila Davis, smoke these hand-selected slabs to tender, juicy perfection. Seasoned with salt, black pepper, and kissed by Texas post oak smoke and flames, these Houston’s Best Ribs deliver unmatched smoky flavor that defines authentic Texas Barbecue. Award-winning and beloved, their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich taste draw generations to our family-friendly restaurant. Slow-smoked for hours, the process enhances natural juiciness, making them a Houston Food Scene treasure. Pair with signature sides like creamy 4-cheese mac and cheese or grilled veggies to savor this 90-year tradition.
BRISKET $16.00
½ Pound: $16.00 | Pound: $34.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $23.95 Indulge in the unrivaled Goodstock Beef Brisket at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, meticulously smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits for over 90 years, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth texture since 1935. Sourced from premium Goodstock Beef, this Texas Barbecue masterpiece boasts a deep, smoky flavor with a tender, juicy interior, embodying the heart of Houston BBQ Culture. The slow-smoking process locks in richness, making it a standout in the Houston Food Scene. Serve with classic sides like tangy coleslaw or pinto beans to savor this historic dish, a testament to our enduring legacy of craftsmanship.
JALAPENO LINK SAUSAGE $13.00
½ Pound: $13.00 | Pound: $21.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $17.95 Ignite your taste buds with our Jalapeño Link Sausage, expertly handcrafted and smoked over our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits for a bold, spicy kick that’s been a Texas Barbecue tradition since 1935. This savory sausage blends fiery jalapeño heat with smoky depth, a proud part of Houston BBQ Culture that pairs beautifully with sides like smoked cabbage or street corn. The meticulous smoking process enhances its robust flavor, offering a unique twist on classic barbecue that reflects our 90-year heritage. A must-try for spice lovers in the Houston Food Scene!
PORK SAUSAGE $12.00
½ Pound: $12.00 | Pound: $20.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $17.50 Relish the timeless taste of our Pork Sausage, slow-smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits to perfection, a staple of Texas Barbecue since 1935. This savory link captures the essence of Houston BBQ Culture with its rich, smoky flavor and tender bite, crafted with techniques passed down through generations. The extended smoking process infuses it with a depth that complements sides like mustard potato salad or grilled vegetables, making it a beloved part of our 90-year legacy in the Houston Food Scene.
TURKEY BREAST $12.50
½ Pound: $12.50 | Pound: $24.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $19.95 Delight in our Turkey Breast, smoked to juicy perfection over our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, offering a lean yet flavorful Texas Barbecue option since 1935. This Houston Food Scene gem absorbs the smoky essence of our historic pits, delivering a tender texture and subtle taste that shines with sides like creamy coleslaw or pinto beans. As part of our 90-year Houston BBQ Culture, it’s a healthier choice that honors our tradition of quality, making every bite a celebration of heritage.
PULLED PORK $12.00
½ Pound: $12.00 | Pound: $24.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $19.95 Savor the tender Pulled Pork at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, slow-cooked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits for that signature Houston BBQ flavor rooted in Texas Barbecue tradition since 1935. This succulent meat, shredded to perfection, carries the smoky depth of our 90-year legacy, a cornerstone of Houston BBQ Culture. Pair with sides like grilled mixed vegetables or 4-cheese mac and cheese to enhance its rich taste, offering a true taste of history in the Houston Food Scene.
DE-BONED CHICKEN $12.50
½ Pound: $12.50 | Pound: $23.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $18.95 Enjoy our De-Boned Chicken, smoked to juicy perfection over our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits for a flavorful Texas Barbecue experience since 1935. This Houston Food Scene favorite features tender meat infused with smoky goodness, reflecting Houston BBQ Culture with every bite. The careful smoking process preserves its moisture, making it ideal with sides like Texas caviar or smoked brussels sprouts, celebrating our 90-year tradition of excellence.
BONE-IN CHICKEN $12.50
½ Pound: $12.50 | Pound: $23.00 | Dinner with Two Sides: $18.95 Relish the rustic charm of our Bone-In Chicken, smoked over 90-Year-Old Brick Pits for a bold Houston BBQ flavor that’s been a Texas Barbecue classic since 1935. This Houston BBQ Culture staple offers a juicy, smoky taste with a hint of heritage, enhanced by sides like slow-cooked pinto beans or mustard potato salad. Our 90-year legacy shines through in every tender bite, a must for the Houston Food Scene.
MIXED TWO MEATS $16.00
½ Pound: $16.00 | Pound: $22.95 Build your dream plate with Mixed Two Meats, featuring ¼# each of options like Houston’s Best Ribs or Goodstock Beef Brisket, smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. A Texas Barbecue tradition since 1935, this customizable combo celebrates Houston BBQ Culture with a variety of smoky flavors. Pair with sides like creamy coleslaw or grilled veggies to enjoy a diverse taste of our 90-year legacy in the Houston Food Scene.
THREE MEAT SAMPLER $32.00
½ Pound: $32.00 | Pound: $42.00 (½# Ribs and Two ¼# Your Choice) Embark on a Houston BBQ journey with our Three Meat Sampler, showcasing ½# of Houston’s Best Ribs and two ¼# choices (e.g., Goodstock Beef Brisket or sausage) smoked in 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. A Texas Barbecue legend since 1935, this hearty platter embodies Houston BBQ Culture with its rich, smoky profiles. Enhance with sides like 4-cheese mac and cheese or smoked cabbage, a true Houston Food Scene experience from our 90-year heritage.

DINNER
BAR B CUE FAJITA PLATE $22.95
Bar B Cue Fajita Plate ($22.95) - Choice of Brisket, Chicken, Pork or Turkey with Grilled Peppers and Onions, Pinto Beans, Pico de Gallo, Sour Cream, Cheese Served with Flour Tortillas Savor the Bar B Cue Fajita Plate at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, with your choice of Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket, chicken, pork, or turkey, slow-smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. Paired with grilled peppers, onions, pinto beans, pico de gallo, sour cream, cheese, and flour tortillas, it’s a Texas Barbecue feast infused with Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history.

FRIDAY & SATURDAY SPECIALS
Brisket Enchiladas $19.50
Brisket Enchiladas ($19.50) - Two smoked brisket enchiladas topped with chili gravy, cheddar cheese, crema fresca, and salsa rojo. With black beans and mixed vegetables Indulge in our Friday & Saturday Brisket Enchiladas at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, featuring Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket wrapped in two enchiladas, topped with chili gravy, cheddar, crema fresca, and salsa rojo. Served with black beans and mixed vegetables, all kissed by our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, this special embodies Houston BBQ Culture and Texas Barbecue, seasoned with Houston history.

BETWEEN THE BUNS
Brisket - Sliced or Chopped $14.25
Brisket - Sliced or Chopped ($14.25) Enjoy a Brisket Sandwich at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, with sliced or chopped Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket, slow-smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. Served on a bun, it’s a classic Texas Barbecue experience, rich with Houston BBQ Culture and seasoned with Houston history for smoky, tender perfection.
Sliced Turkey $13.00
Relish the Sliced Turkey Sandwich from Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, featuring lean turkey breast smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. Served on a bun, it delivers authentic Texas Barbecue flavor, steeped in Houston BBQ Culture and seasoned with Houston history for a light yet savory bite.
Pulled Pork $13.00
Dive into the Pulled Pork Sandwich at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, with tender pork slow-smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. Packed with Texas Barbecue essence and Houston BBQ Culture, it’s seasoned with Houston history on a bun for a juicy, flavorful classic.
Link Sausage $13.00
Sausage Perfection at Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ – A 5-Generation Legacy! 🍖🔥 For nearly 100 years, Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ has crafted our legendary sausage with a recipe passed down through almost five generations of the same family, rooted in Houston BBQ tradition since 1935. Handmade at our historic brick pits on 1703 Shepherd Dr. Our blend premium cuts with secret spices, smoked to juicy perfection over Texas post oak. This award-winning craft BBQ reflects a 90-year legacy of flavor, consistency, and family pride.
Link Sausage Sandwich $13.00
Savor the Link Sausage Sandwich from Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, featuring smoky sausage crafted in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. A nod to Texas Barbecue tradition and Houston BBQ Culture, it’s seasoned with Houston history, served on a bun for bold, satisfying flavor.
De-Boned Chicken $13.00
Enjoy the De-Boned Chicken Sandwich at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, with tender, pit-smoked chicken from our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. Served on a bun, it blends Houston BBQ Culture with Texas Barbecue authenticity, seasoned with Houston history for a hassle-free, flavorful meal.
Any Two Meats $14.00
Mix and match with the Any Two Meats Sandwich at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, choosing from Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket, chicken, pork, turkey, or sausage, all smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. A versatile Texas Barbecue delight, it’s seasoned with Houston history and Houston BBQ Culture.
House Grind Brisket Burger $16.75
Pit-smoked and topped with cheddar cheese, arugula, smoky salsa on a toasted challah bun. Add Sliced Avocado ($2.50) Indulge in the House Grind Brisket Burger at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, made with Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan, pit-smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, topped with cheddar, arugula, and smoky salsa on a toasted challah bun. Add avocado for $2.50. It’s Texas Barbecue meets Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history.
Pit-Smoked Chunky Chicken Salad $12.95
Served on toasted challah Try the Pit-Smoked Chunky Chicken Salad Sandwich at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, featuring chicken smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, served on toasted challah. This light yet smoky Texas Barbecue option reflects Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history for a fresh, flavorful twist.
Pizzitola's BLT $17.50
Brisket, Links and Turkey on sour dough with tomato, romaine, cheese, onion, avocado and chipotle mayo Savor Pizzitola’s BLT at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, loaded with Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket, links, and turkey, all smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. Piled on sourdough with tomato, romaine, cheese, onion, avocado, and chipotle mayo, it’s a bold Texas Barbecue creation steeped in Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history.

PIT-BAKED POTATOES
with Cheese, Butter, Sour Cream and Green Onions $9.95
Enjoy a Pit-Baked Potato at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, baked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits with cheese, butter, sour cream, and green onions. Infused with smoky Texas Barbecue flavor and Houston BBQ Culture, it’s seasoned with Houston history for a hearty, comforting side. Vegan potential (confirm toppings).
with BRISKET $16.75
Elevate your meal with a Pit-Baked Potato topped with Goodstock Beef by Nolan Ryan brisket at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ. Smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits, it’s layered with cheese, butter, sour cream, and green onions, blending Texas Barbecue and Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history.
with Sausage, Pulled Pork, Turkey or Chicken $15.95
Savor a Pit-Baked Potato at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, topped with your choice of sausage, pork, turkey, or chicken, smoked in our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. Finished with cheese, butter, sour cream, and green onions, it’s a smoky Texas Barbecue delight, rich with Houston BBQ Culture and seasoned with Houston history.

CLASSIC SIDES
Mustard Potato Salad $4.75
Dig into Mustard Potato Salad at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, lightly kissed by the smoky essence of our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. This classic Texas Barbecue side, part of Houston BBQ Culture, is seasoned with Houston history, offering a tangy, creamy complement to any smoked dish.
Creamy-Tangy Cole Slaw $4.75
Relish Creamy-Tangy Cole Slaw at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, crafted with a hint of smokiness from our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. This classic Texas Barbecue side embodies Houston BBQ Culture, seasoned with Houston history for a crisp, refreshing addition to your meal.
Grilled Mixed Vegetables $4.75
Enjoy Grilled Mixed Vegetables at Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ, prepared with a smoky touch from our 90-Year-Old Brick Pits. A vegan-friendly Texas Barbecue side, it’s infused with Houston BBQ Culture and seasoned with Houston history, perfect for a fresh, flavorful pairing.
Slow-Cooked Pinto Beans $4.75

SIGNATURE SIDES
Pit-Roasted Street Corn $5.00
Texas Caviar $5.00
Smoked Cabbage with Sausage $5.00
Smoked Brussel Sprouts $5.00
4 Cheese Mac and Cheese $5.00

HOUSE MADE DESSERTS
Mama Pizzitola's Famous Banana Pudding $7.50
Fresh Pineapple and Coconut Cake $7.95
Texas Chocolate Sheetcake $7.95
Individual Bourbon-Pecan Pie $8.75

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ Details

Service options
Curbside pickup
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Serves local specialty
Sports

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible seating
Assistive hearing loop
Wheelchair accessible restroom

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Historic

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Locals
Tourists
Transgender safespace

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free parking garage
Free parking lot
Free street parking
On-site parking
Parking

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ Photos

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ Location

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ

Texas Harris County Houston Washington Avenue Coalition / Memorial Park Shepherd Drive

1703 Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77007, USA

Pizzitola’s Heritage BBQ Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 591 user reviews.

brisketribssausagepotato saladbanana puddingcabbagejalapeñoenchiladasbarkpecan pie

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

They are a popular bbq place and with good reason. The service is outstanding. It’s one of the few BBQ spots that provide table service and their staff is great. Despite getting busy quickly at lunch time, they checked on us often. I had the their ribs, turkey & brisket and it was delicious- a combined pound of meat. I opted for the Texas Caviar & Brussels sprouts and I was very pleased. The restaurant is rather historical. Restrooms were clean. Plenty of free parking.
May 08 · Victoria Sledz
Came here after living in the area for a decade and having never been here I regret never coming before. The brisket queso was so good and the ribs, brisket, and sausage plate were even better. The owner Tim introduced himself and the service could not have been better!10/10 Food Service and Vibe
May 30 · Mark Wachowicz
Couldn’t recommend this place enough. The locals say it’s way better than Truth bbq. And the best part, there’s no line! We had great table service and everyone was very friendly. Amazing food. This is the go-to local home town barbecue joint. Ask for Cindy and Esteban when you come in, they’ve been working here for 30 years
April 26 · Robbie Page
Tim,Everything was executed beautifully for our dads Surprise 90th birthday celebration. The venue was ideal for this event. All aspects were well managed. The food was served hot, and the staff and waitresses ensured that drinks and food were consistently available. They were very attentive to our guests and exceptionally friendly. Family and friends remarked that “the staff and waitresses were excellent”.Overall, I found it to be absolutely perfect and remarkable. A 10 out of 10. I would strongly recommend Pizzitola's Heritage BBQ for any catering, celebrations and social events.Sophia
June 23 · Sophia Dean-Johnson
Great historical place with great food and desserts. The people that are there have been there a long time and they are great. The food is always amazing. The BBQ is some of the best and the ribs were awesome. The chocolate sheet cake was truly phenomenal. Overall, highly recommended if you have not been before you will not be dissappointed.
July 02 · Nathaniel Hooten