Finding great BBQ in Gilmer, TX is not a wild goose chase. The smoky aroma hits you long before you even see a sign or parking lot. I remember my first Texas barbecue lesson in Gilmer. The pitmaster handed me a plate with brisket so tender it barely held together, plus slaw that snapped with freshness. He told me, “Don’t judge a spot by its building. Judge it by the line.” I have been following that line—and my nose—across Gilmer ever since.
Gilmer’s barbecue scene is straightforward but never dull. Each spot has its own charm, from bustling roadside shacks to sit-down joints where the sauce is optional but the hospitality is not. If you ask a local where to go, you’ll likely get several names before they sigh and admit even they can’t pick a favorite. Whether you want smoky brisket, saucy ribs, or a pulled pork sandwich, you’ll find something that keeps you coming back. Let’s dig into the best BBQ Gilmer has to offer—hungry or not, you’re in for a ride.
1. Bodacious Bar-B-Q
(903) 843-3481Call
Bodacious Bar-B-Q is a fixture on Highway 271, drawing both locals and travelers with its steady plume of hickory smoke. The place is no-frills, but the warmth goes beyond the pit. My last stop there, someone ahead of me ordered “the usual,” which turned out to be a heaving tray of brisket and ribs, hinting at how many regulars call this spot home.
The brisket is the hero here—tender, smoky, and just the right balance of bark and melt. Pair it with their tangy sauce or eat it plain; both satisfy. Their sausage takes on the smoke perfectly, and the turkey is never dry, a feat worth noting.
If you’re looking for sides, the beans and potato salad will not let you down. Bodacious makes barbecue that’s simple but done right—just how Gilmer likes it.
2. Bubba’s Fat Burger/James Brown BBQ Kitchen
(903) 680-0899Call
Bubba’s Fat Burger/James Brown BBQ Kitchen is the kind of spot you hear about before you see it. I stumbled in one afternoon and was greeted with friendly banter and the promise of food that “sticks to your ribs.” The menu bridges burger classics with East Texas barbecue, and it’s not shy about flavor.
Their loaded brisket sandwich stands above the crowd. The smoke rings are textbook perfect, the portion is generous, and the house sauce offers just enough zing to keep things interesting. The pulled pork comes piled high, with a depth of smoke that only comes from hours on the pit.
Don’t skip their fries, either—crisp, salty, and an ideal sidekick to the main event. Bubba’s is the place when you want casual, hearty barbecue done with heart.
3. Dubyas Smokehouse BBQ
Dubyas Smokehouse BBQ is tucked off Old Coffeeville Road, but it’s worth tracking down. I landed here after following a friend’s recommendation, and the smoky scent drew me in before I even stepped inside. It’s a spot where you see regulars chatting up the owner, and that sense of community adds charm to the meal.
The ribs deserve special mention—fall-off-the-bone tender, coated in a glaze that’s both sweet and smoky. They serve up hefty brisket slices, too, which balance flavorful bark with juicy middle.
The loaded baked potato, crowned with a pile of chopped brisket, is another local favorite. Everything at Dubyas feels home-cooked, with that slow-cooked taste reminding you that patience pays off in barbecue.
4. Petty’s Country Kitchen & Barbeque
(903) 663-1053Call
Petty’s Country Kitchen & Barbeque sits just off a quiet road, looking almost hidden. But inside, it’s anything but sleepy. My first visit felt like stumbling into a big family gathering—laughter from one corner, the sizzle from the kitchen in another.
Their pork ribs are slow-cooked and glazed just right, with a smoky finish that lingers long after the last bite. The brisket, too, has the right blend of tenderness and flavor, served up in hearty slices that leave no one hungry.
If you want something comforting, the chopped beef sandwich is a local staple, delivering on both taste and nostalgia. Petty’s nails that home-style flavor—generous portions, friendly faces, and barbecue that speaks for itself.
5. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit offers a reliable option for those willing to hop over to Longview. My last visit was on a road trip when I needed something fast but not forgettable. It’s easy to order and even easier to find something crave-worthy on the menu.
The sliced brisket is a highlight—smoky, moist, and sliced just thick enough to satisfy. The Polish sausage brings a pleasant snap, while the smoked turkey is a nice alternative if you want something lighter.
Dickey’s has become famous for their classic sides. The mac and cheese always hits the mark, and their barbecue beans round out a plate with real flavor. Dickey’s delivers the favorites, served up quick and consistent every time.
6. Bodacious Inc
(903) 759-3000Call
Bodacious Inc sits just outside Gilmer, but the drive pays off every time. I remember dropping by after a long afternoon and leaving convinced their smoky aroma has its own fan club. The staff moves fast, doling out trays piled high with classic barbecue favorites.
The chopped beef sandwich is a standout—smoky, juicy, and never over-sauced. Their sausage link is worth trying, thanks to a snap and spice that lingers.
If you’re feeding a crowd, the family packs make it easy to sample ribs and pulled chicken. Side dishes like the creamy potato salad or crisp coleslaw always deliver. Bodacious Inc brings the best of East Texas barbecue: hearty, unfussy, and full of soul.
7. Boxcar Bar-B-Que
Boxcar Bar-B-Que is one of those places you almost miss if you’re not looking carefully along Gilmer Road. My first visit happened after a local sent me hunting for their ribs—and it was time well spent. The vibe here is easygoing and welcoming, with quick service and a steady stream of regulars.
The standout is their smoked ribs, boasting a deep flavor and just the right pull from the bone. Their brisket is another favorite, sliced thick, never dry, and served with a crust that signals hours in the smoker.
House-made sides like the baked beans and vinegar slaw round out the meal. For a taste of East Texas tradition, Boxcar delivers smoky comfort and a casual setting that feels like home.
8. Wing Street
Wing Street sits on Broadway Ave, offering a fun break from the classic barbecue circuit. I stopped in with friends looking for something saucy and quick, and the steady crowd was proof enough that we made a good call. While it’s more known for wings, their barbecue flavor packs a punch.
The hickory smoked wings are top-tier—crispy outside, juicy inside, and coated in a sauce that feels right at home in East Texas. If you’re in the mood to sample, try the mix-and-match platter for a range of flavors without missing the barbecue essence.
For sides, the seasoned fries are a natural fit. Wing Street makes it easy to get finger-licking barbecue flair, with fast service and all the familiar fixings.
9. Jt’s Barb-Q Restaurant
(903) 845-4600Call
JT’s Barb-Q Restaurant is the place where families and friends linger a little longer over good food. The first time I visited, a local insisted I try their “plate special”—that’s how traditions start. The staff is relaxed and attentive, and the cozy dining room gives off a laid-back East Texas vibe.
Their chopped beef plate is a true favorite—tender, smoky, and loaded high. The sausage is another highlight, sliced thick with bold seasoning and a satisfying snap.
Sides like coleslaw and potato salad are made in-house and finish a meal the way only good BBQ sides can. JT’s Barb-Q bridges the best of family dining and serious barbecue tradition in Gladewater.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-try BBQ spots in Gilmer, TX?
Gilmer has several favorites locals return to, like Bodacious Bar-B-Q, Bubba’s Fat Burger/James Brown BBQ Kitchen, and Dubyas Smokehouse BBQ. Each brings its own twist to classic Texas barbecue.
What dishes should I order at a Gilmer BBQ restaurant?
Start with brisket, ribs, or sausage—these are the backbone of East Texas BBQ. Many spots also have standout sides like potato salad, baked beans, or coleslaw worth sampling.
Is there halal or vegetarian BBQ in Gilmer, TX?
Most BBQ restaurants in this area focus on traditional smoked meats. Vegetarian options can be limited but inquire at each spot about available meat-free sides or salads.
Do BBQ places in Gilmer offer takeout or catering?
Yes, many places, such as Bodacious Bar-B-Q and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, offer both takeout and catering for events, making it easy to enjoy barbecue anywhere.
Are there family-friendly BBQ restaurants in Gilmer?
Absolutely. Spots like JT’s Barb-Q Restaurant and Bubba’s Fat Burger are popular with families and offer relaxed, welcoming atmospheres for all ages.