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Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Corpus Christi

The Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Corpus Christi, Texas, in a city that knows its barbecue. Here is why they are the best restaurants in Corpus Christi for easing your BBQ craving. From Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q’s classic smoked meats to Howard’s BBQ’s unique flavor combinations, there’s something for everyone in this coastal Texas town. Mumphord’s Place BBQ’s delicious homemade sides also make them stand out from the crowd. Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn’s signature brisket and Julian’s BBQ’s creative menu options are not to be missed.

Note that this list is not exhaustive and there are many other great barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi.

1. Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q – Rudy’s, included as one of the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a popular barbecue chain that has won numerous awards for its smoked meats. They offer a wide variety of meats, including brisket, ribs, sausage, and turkey. The restaurant is known for its signature “Sause,” which customers can buy by the bottle. Rudy’s is popular among locals and tourists alike for its delicious barbecue and friendly service.

2. Howard’s BBQ – Howard’s, one of the most popular barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving barbecue in Corpus Christi since 1986. The restaurant is known for its brisket, sausage, and ribs, which are smoked low and slow over mesquite wood. Howard’s also serves sides like mac and cheese, pinto beans, and potato salad, which customers rave about. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a favorite among locals.

3. Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn – Hoegemeyer’s, while among the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is known for their high-quality meats and smoked sausage, which are cooked to perfection and have a great flavor. Additionally, their sides such as their potato salad, coleslaw, and beans are also highly praised by customers for their unique and tasty flavors. The restaurant is housed in an old barn and features a country-style interior with wooden tables and chairs, and a welcoming ambiance that makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

4. Mumphord’s Place BBQ – Mumphord’s, another of the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving barbecue in Corpus Christi for over 30 years. The restaurant is known for its brisket, sausage, and pork ribs, which are smoked over mesquite wood. Mumphord’s also serves homemade sides like potato salad, pinto beans, and coleslaw. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a popular spot among locals.

5. Julian’s BBQ – Julian’s, while amid the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, has been around for more than 70 years, and its recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, which gives them an authentic and unique flavor. They use high-quality meats, which are slow-smoked over mesquite wood for several hours, resulting in tender and juicy meat with a distinctive smoky flavor. The restaurant also offers a variety of meats, including brisket, ribs, sausage, chicken, and turkey, giving customers a lot of options to choose from.

Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Corpus Christi

1. Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q - Barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi

Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q

Address: 6101 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Hours: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm (Mon-Sun)
Phone Number: (361) 906-0025

Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q, included as one of the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a popular barbecue chain that offers a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, sausage, and turkey. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic interior with wooden tables and benches. The walls are adorned with pictures of famous country musicians and cowboys. There is also a small “country store” area where customers can purchase Rudy’s signature “Sause,” as well as t-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs.

One of the signature dishes on Rudy’s menu is the brisket, which is smoked for 18 hours over oak wood. The result is a tender, juicy brisket with a smoky flavor that customers rave about. Another popular item is the creamed corn, which is made from scratch and has a sweet, creamy flavor.

What sets Rudy’s apart from other barbecue restaurants is its signature “Sause.” This tangy, slightly spicy sauce is made from a secret recipe and is available for purchase by the bottle. Customers love to pour it over their brisket, ribs, or sausage for an extra burst of flavor.

The service at Rudy’s is friendly and efficient. Customers order at the counter and then pick up their food at the window. The staff is always willing to answer questions and make recommendations.

Main Menu Items:

Brisket – This is Rudy’s signature item, smoked for 18 hours over oak wood. The meat is tender and juicy, with a smoky flavor that customers rave about.

Pork Spare Ribs – These ribs are seasoned with Rudy’s “Rub” and smoked until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. They are then glazed with Rudy’s “Sause” for added flavor.

Sausage – The sausage at Rudy’s is made in-house using a blend of pork, beef, and special seasonings. It is then smoked over oak wood until it is cooked to perfection.

Turkey Breast – The turkey breast is also smoked over oak wood, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter option.

Creamed Corn – This side dish is made from scratch using sweet corn, cream, and butter. It has a sweet, creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with Rudy’s smoky meats.

Customer Reviews:

“I had the brisket and it was amazing. The meat was so tender and the flavor was out of this world. The creamed corn was also delicious. I highly recommend Rudy’s for anyone looking for some good barbecue in Corpus Christi.”

“I’ve been to Rudy’s a few times and I always leave satisfied. The brisket is definitely the star of the show, but the sausage and ribs are also excellent. And you can’t leave without trying the Sause!”

“I stopped by Rudy’s on my way out of town and I’m so glad I did. I got the turkey and it was some of the best I’ve ever had. It was so moist and flavorful. The staff was also very friendly and welcoming.”

Overall, Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious barbecue in Corpus Christi. With its cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and mouth-watering brisket, it’s no wonder this restaurant has won numerous awards and accolades over the years. They rank amid the top 5 barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi for good reasons.


2. Howard's BBQ - Barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi

Howard’s BBQ

Address: 1002 Antelope St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Hours: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm (Mon-Sat), Closed on Sundays
Phone Number: (361) 882-4070

Howard’s BBQ, one of the most popular barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a family-owned barbecue restaurant that has been serving the Corpus Christi community for over 30 years. The restaurant offers a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, chicken, and sausage. The interior of the restaurant is simple, with wooden tables and chairs, and the walls are adorned with pictures of the owners and their family.

One of the signature dishes on Howard’s menu is the brisket, which is smoked over mesquite wood for 12-14 hours. The result is a tender and flavorful meat that is loved by customers. Another popular item is the turkey legs, which are seasoned with Howard’s special blend of spices and smoked until the meat is juicy and flavorful.

What sets Howard’s apart from other barbecue restaurants is its unique “pan de campo” bread. This homemade bread is baked in a cast-iron skillet and has a crispy crust and a fluffy interior. It is the perfect accompaniment to Howard’s smoky meats.

The service at Howard’s is friendly and efficient. Customers order at the counter and then pick up their food at the window. The staff is always willing to answer questions and make recommendations.

Main Menu Items:

Brisket – Howard’s brisket is smoked over mesquite wood for 12-14 hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that is loved by customers.

Turkey Leg – The turkey legs at Howard’s are seasoned with their special blend of spices and smoked until the meat is juicy and flavorful. They are a popular option for those looking for a lighter alternative to beef.

Sausage – Howard’s sausage is made in-house using a blend of pork and beef and is smoked until cooked to perfection. It has a slightly spicy flavor that pairs well with their smoky meats.

Ribs – The ribs at Howard’s are seasoned with their special blend of spices and smoked until the meat is falling off the bone. They are glazed with Howard’s BBQ sauce for added flavor.

Pan de Campo – Howard’s homemade bread is a must-try. The bread is baked in a cast-iron skillet and has a crispy crust and a fluffy interior. It is the perfect accompaniment to their smoky meats.

Customer Reviews:

“I had the brisket and it was amazing. The meat was so tender and had a great smoky flavor. The pan de campo bread was also delicious. I can see why this place has been around for so long!”

“The turkey leg was huge and so delicious. The seasoning was perfect and the meat was juicy and flavorful. And the pan de campo bread is a must-try!”

“I’ve been coming to Howard’s for years and I’ve never been disappointed. The brisket and ribs are always top-notch and the pan de campo bread is out of this world. The staff is always friendly and welcoming.”

Overall, Howard’s BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious barbecue in Corpus Christi. With its simple interior, friendly service, and mouth-watering brisket and pan de campo bread, it’s no wonder this restaurant has been a staple in the community for over three decades. They stand out among the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi.


3. Hoegemeyer's Barbeque Barn - Barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi

Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn

Address: 711 Concrete St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:30am-2:30pm
Phone Number: (361) 884-4227

Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn, while among the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a classic barbecue joint located in downtown Corpus Christi. The restaurant is housed in a converted barn, giving it a rustic and cozy atmosphere. The walls are covered in vintage signs and memorabilia, adding to the charm of the place.

The menu at Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn is traditional Texas-style barbecue, featuring brisket, sausage, ribs, and chicken, along with classic sides like potato salad and pinto beans. The standout dish at Hoegemeyer’s is their smoked brisket, which is slow-cooked over mesquite wood for 14 hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat that melts in your mouth.

What makes Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn unique is its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The restaurant sources its meat from local farms and uses only fresh ingredients in its sides and sauces. The mesquite wood used to smoke the meat is also locally sourced, giving the barbecue a unique flavor that can only be found in South Texas.

The service at Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn is friendly and attentive. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to answer any questions customers may have. The restaurant is cafeteria-style, meaning customers order at the counter and are served their food on disposable plates.

Main Menu Items:

Beef Brisket Plate – Slow-smoked beef brisket served with a side of homemade barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and baked beans.

Pulled Pork Sandwich – Tender pulled pork topped with homemade barbecue sauce, served on a toasted bun with a side of french fries or onion rings.

Smoked Turkey Breast Plate – Smoked turkey breast served with a side of homemade gravy, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

St. Louis Style Ribs – Slow-smoked pork ribs seasoned with Hoegemeyer’s special rub, served with a side of homemade barbecue sauce and coleslaw.

Sausage Plate – Grilled beef sausage served with a side of pickles, onions, and homemade barbecue sauce.

Customer Reviews:

“The brisket at Hoegemeyer’s is the best I’ve ever had. It’s so tender and juicy, with just the right amount of smoky flavor. The potato salad is also a must-try. It’s creamy and delicious.”

“I love the atmosphere at Hoegemeyer’s. It feels like you’re stepping back in time. The sausage is my go-to order, but everything on the menu is delicious.”

“Hoegemeyer’s is a hidden gem in downtown Corpus Christi. The brisket is amazing, but the ribs are also fantastic. The service is always friendly and welcoming.”

In summary, Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn is a classic Texas barbecue joint that serves up delicious, traditional barbecue in a cozy and rustic atmosphere. The smoked brisket is a standout dish, but the sausage, ribs, and sides are also top-notch. The commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques sets Hoegemeyer’s apart from other barbecue restaurants in the area. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi.


4. Mumphord's Place BBQ - Barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi

Mumphord’s Place BBQ

Address: 1202 E. Sinton St., Sinton, TX 78387
Hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (Tues-Sat), Closed on Sundays and Mondays
Phone Number: (361) 364-2833

Mumphord’s Place BBQ, another of the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a family-owned and operated barbecue restaurant located in Sinton, Texas, about 25 miles northwest of Corpus Christi. The restaurant has been serving up delicious smoked meats since 1996 and has become a local favorite. The interior of the restaurant is rustic, with wooden tables and chairs, and walls adorned with photos of the Mumphord family and their barbecue competitions.

The signature food at Mumphord’s Place BBQ is the brisket, which is smoked for over 12 hours and served sliced or chopped. The restaurant also offers a variety of other smoked meats, including ribs, sausage, chicken, and turkey. The sides are all made from scratch and include favorites like potato salad, coleslaw, and beans.

One unique aspect of Mumphord’s Place BBQ is that the restaurant offers catering services for events of all sizes, including weddings and corporate events. They also offer custom seasoning blends and sauces for customers to take home and use on their own barbecue.

The service at Mumphord’s Place BBQ is friendly and welcoming. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and always willing to answer questions and make recommendations.

Main Menu Items:

Brisket – This is Mumphord’s Place BBQ’s signature dish, smoked for over 12 hours and served sliced or chopped. It’s tender and full of smoky flavor.

Ribs – The ribs at Mumphord’s Place BBQ are fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor. They are seasoned with a custom blend of spices and smoked to perfection.

Sausage – The sausage at Mumphord’s Place BBQ is homemade and smoked to perfection. It’s juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice.

Turkey – Mumphord’s Place BBQ’s smoked turkey is juicy and full of flavor. It’s a nice change of pace from the usual brisket and ribs.

Potato Salad – Mumphord’s Place BBQ’s potato salad is homemade and the perfect side dish to any barbecue meal. It’s creamy and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness.

Customer Reviews:

“The brisket at Mumphord’s Place BBQ is hands down the best in the area. It’s so tender and smoky and just melts in your mouth. I also love the homemade potato salad – it’s the perfect side dish.”

“The ribs at Mumphord’s Place BBQ are fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor. The coleslaw is also a must-try – it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.”

“The turkey at Mumphord’s Place BBQ is amazing. It’s so juicy and flavorful, and it’s a nice change from the usual brisket and ribs. I also love the homemade beans – they’re so hearty and delicious.”

Overall, Mumphord’s Place BBQ is a top-notch barbecue restaurant that’s worth the drive from Corpus Christi. With its mouthwatering brisket, friendly service, and rustic atmosphere, it’s no wonder this family-owned restaurant has been a local favorite for over 25 years. They have earned the rank of the top 5 barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi.


5. Julian's BBQ - Barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi

Julian’s BBQ

Address: 1818 Baldwin Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78404
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:30 AM – 7 PM, Closed on Sundays
Phone Number: (361) 883-9613

Julian’s BBQ, while amid the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi, is a classic, no-frills barbecue joint located in the heart of Corpus Christi. The restaurant is set up like a cafeteria, with a long counter where customers place their orders and watch as the pitmasters slice and chop the meat to order. The interior is cozy and casual, with a few tables and booths for seating.

The signature food item at Julian’s BBQ is their brisket. Slow-smoked for over 12 hours, the brisket is incredibly tender and flavorful, with a beautiful bark and a perfect smoke ring. Other popular menu items include the pulled pork, sausage links, and beef ribs. All of the meats are served by the pound or on sandwiches, accompanied by classic barbecue sides like mac and cheese, potato salad, and pinto beans.

One unique thing about Julian’s BBQ is that they offer a special “barbecue stew” that is made from leftover meats and vegetables from the previous day’s service. This hearty and flavorful stew is a local favorite and is only available on Saturdays.

The service at Julian’s BBQ is fast and friendly. Customers place their orders at the counter, and the food is brought out to their table shortly thereafter. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to answer any questions about the different meats and sides.

Main Menu Items:

Brisket – Julian’s BBQ is known for their brisket, which is slow-smoked for up to 16 hours to create a tender and flavorful meat. It is available in different cuts and sizes.

Sausage – Their homemade sausage is another popular item on the menu. Made with a blend of beef and pork, the sausage is smoked to perfection and has a slightly spicy kick.

Ribs – Julian’s BBQ serves both baby back and spare ribs, which are seasoned with their signature dry rub and slow-smoked until they are fall-off-the-bone tender.

Pulled Pork – The pulled pork at Julian’s BBQ is cooked low and slow for hours, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat that is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or simply eaten on its own.

Turkey – Julian’s BBQ also offers smoked turkey, which is a great option for those who prefer a leaner meat. It is seasoned with their special rub and smoked until it is moist and tender.

Customer Reviews:

“I had the brisket sandwich with a side of mac and cheese, and it was incredible. The brisket was perfectly smoked and melted in my mouth, and the mac and cheese was some of the best I’ve ever had. I will definitely be back.”

“I come to Julian’s BBQ every time I’m in Corpus Christi, and I’m never disappointed. The beef ribs are amazing – so meaty and flavorful – and the sausage links are always a hit. The sides are great too, especially the cornbread and the beans.”

“I’ve been going to Julian’s BBQ for years, and it’s always been one of my favorite spots in Corpus Christi. The brisket is the star of the show, but the pulled pork is also fantastic. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere is laid-back and comfortable.”

Julian’s BBQ is a classic barbecue joint that serves up some of the best brisket in Corpus Christi. The restaurant has a cozy and casual atmosphere, with friendly service and a menu that includes all the classic barbecue staples. Don’t miss the barbecue stew on Saturdays – it’s a local favorite! They can definitely be counted among the top barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi.


Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these top 5 barbecue restaurants in Corpus Christi are sure to satisfy your craving for delicious smoked meats and classic southern sides. This is why they are the best restaurants in Corpus Christi for easing your BBQ craving.



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