Houstonist Bites: Barbecue Inn

Barbecue Inn, located on W. Crosstimbers at Yale has been serving up home cooked diner fare since 1946. Houstonist had to pay them a visit, as we were told that the fried chicken was "to die". We're not just taking anyone's word on it - we have to find out for our ownselves (it's a sacrifice, but, one we are willing to make). While waiting for our table, we chatted up the hostess, who let us know that the barbecue is good, but, the fried chicken and seafood were the real show-stoppers. The official suggestion was "If you get the fried chicken, you just have to order about three fried shrimp with it. They are the best in town.", or something similar to that. No lie, those shrimp were way better than ALMOST as good as Houstonist Mama's, or so we would have her believe.

The chicken? Oh baby, look at the photos we took and try your level best to resist that golden, juicy, crispy pile of chicken heaven with a cold beer. You can't, we know you can't (unless you are an avowed non-meatatarian, in which case, our apologies) there is nothing better that hot, fresh, homemade yardbird (in our little grease spattered book, anyway). The entire menu is straight-forward-deep-south diner. Our fried chicken was pretty amazing (we stopped short of cracking bones for marrow, we sure picked that chicken clean - we are so ashamed of ourselves). Our friends had the chicken fried steak, which looked good - but, the cream gravy was almost sweet-tasting (we hope that was just an anomaly). The shrimp were delicately battered in a cornmeal/flour mixture and perfectly fried, juicy and tender (we hate overcooked rubbery shrimps, almost as much as getting "medium rare" chicken - ew). The waitresses have been working at Barbecue Inn for, well, for awhile, and are some of the nicest ladies, ever - so, don't be all grouchypants to them after your wait for the table (the lines can be pretty long, but, you can order you some take-out, if you don't wanna wait) and tip them well!!!

Houstonist will be heading back to sample some of the barbecue, with a side of shrimp. If we are lucky, ask nice and hold our mouth just right, maybe we can talk someone into sharing their chicken with us. Provided we pony up some barbecue in exchange, just saying. The "Table Manner Fairy" may scold us for sharing a meal between plates - it's not exactly proper, after all (nor is using our fingers on that bird, but, we'll do that too - don't look!!!). The seafood is probably worth another trip - and some sharing (we will grovel, we're not proud). So, who's ready to feast with us? Houstonist has definitely added them to the "places we crave and have to go to" list (Spanish Village is right there with them). The pies are reportedly a great end to the meal, however we were too full to even contemplate ordering dessert. Perhaps next time, we'll go easier on the fries, perhaps...

Bottom Line: Barbecue Inn has a simple, moderately priced menu, an interesting "neo-pancake house" ambiance and some of the best food you will put in your mouth, ever. The service is friendly, and as fast as the food allows (it's hot and fresh upon arrival). The only downside we found was the gravy (which befuddled us) and the line to get a table. We recommend you give them a try, and if it's been awhile since you've gone by, go refresh your memory! It may not be "upscale", the dishes are 180 degrees from "fusion" and there are no intricate garnishes (unless your parsley or kale is particularly extra-ruffled), so if that's what you're after, you are in the wrong place. If you want to experience an hour of "Grammy's Sunday cooking", put your shoes on and head over as quickly as you can.

Barbecue Inn
116 W. Crosstimbers
713.695.8112

If you think we're embellishing, check this out!