IHouston Barbecue Co. Reviews: Is It Worth The Hype?

Hey barbecue lovers! Are you searching for authentic Texas barbecue in the heart of Houston? Well, you've probably stumbled upon iHouston Barbecue Co. But before you rush over, let's dive deep into what people are saying. This review covers everything from the mouthwatering meats to the savory sides, and the overall experience, so you can decide if it's worth the hype. We'll break down the meats, the sides, the ambiance, and the overall customer experience so you can make an informed decision before heading over there. Grilling season is year-round in Houston, and the competition is fierce, so let's see how iHouston Barbecue Co. stacks up!

The Meats: A Carnivore's Dream or a Missed Opportunity?

Let's be real, guys – the heart and soul of any barbecue joint is the meat. iHouston Barbecue Co. boasts a menu filled with all the classics: brisket, ribs, sausage, pulled pork, and turkey. But does it deliver on flavor and tenderness? According to numerous reviews, the brisket is a standout. Many rave about the perfectly smoked bark, the juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the rich, smoky flavor that permeates every bite. However, consistency seems to be an issue. Some reviewers have reported that while the brisket is often excellent, there have been occasions where it's been a bit dry or tough. Ribs are another popular item, with many praising the tender, fall-off-the-bone meat and the flavorful rub. However, like the brisket, some have found the ribs to be inconsistent, with some batches being drier than others. The sausage, often a crucial element in any Texas barbecue experience, gets mixed reviews. Some love the snappy casing and the bold, spicy flavor, while others find it to be a bit bland or greasy. Pulled pork, a barbecue staple, appears to be a decent option but not necessarily a standout. Most reviewers find it to be moist and flavorful, but not quite as memorable as the brisket or ribs. Finally, the turkey seems to be a bit of an afterthought. While some appreciate the smoky flavor, others find it to be dry and lacking in overall appeal. Overall, the meats at iHouston Barbecue Co. seem to be a mixed bag. While the brisket and ribs often receive high praise, consistency can be an issue. The sausage, pulled pork, and turkey appear to be less consistent in quality and flavor. If you're a true barbecue aficionado, it might be worth trying iHouston Barbecue Co. for the brisket alone. But be prepared for the possibility of inconsistency, and consider exploring other options on the menu.

Sides: Are They More Than Just an Afterthought?

Okay, so we've talked about the meat, but let's not forget about the unsung heroes of any barbecue feast: the sides! iHouston Barbecue Co. offers a variety of classic sides, including coleslaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, and beans. But do these sides complement the meats, or are they just an afterthought? The coleslaw receives mixed reviews. Some appreciate the creamy, tangy flavor, while others find it to be bland or too sweet. Potato salad, another barbecue staple, also gets mixed opinions. Some love the creamy texture and the savory flavor, while others find it to be too heavy on the mayonnaise. Mac and cheese, a crowd-pleaser, generally receives positive reviews. Many praise the creamy, cheesy sauce and the perfectly cooked noodles. However, some find it to be a bit too rich or lacking in flavor. Finally, the beans, often a crucial element in a Texas barbecue spread, receive generally positive reviews. Many appreciate the smoky flavor and the tender texture. However, some find them to be a bit too sweet or lacking in depth of flavor. In general, the sides at iHouston Barbecue Co. appear to be decent but not necessarily exceptional. While some sides receive positive reviews, others are more divisive. If you're looking for classic barbecue sides that complement the meats, iHouston Barbecue Co. might be a decent option. However, if you're a side dish enthusiast, you might want to temper your expectations.

Ambiance and Service: Setting the Stage for BBQ Bliss?

Beyond the food, the ambiance and service play a crucial role in the overall dining experience. iHouston Barbecue Co. aims for a casual, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for enjoying some good ol' Texas barbecue. Many reviewers appreciate the rustic decor and the friendly, welcoming vibe. However, some have noted that the restaurant can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours, which can detract from the overall experience. As for the service, opinions are mixed. Some reviewers rave about the friendly, attentive staff, while others have reported slow or inattentive service. Wait times can also be an issue, particularly during busy periods. It's not uncommon to wait in line for an extended period, especially if you're craving that famous brisket. Overall, the ambiance and service at iHouston Barbecue Co. appear to be decent but not necessarily exceptional. While the restaurant aims for a casual, welcoming atmosphere, crowds and inconsistent service can impact the overall experience. If you're looking for a relaxed, unpretentious barbecue joint, iHouston Barbecue Co. might be a good fit. However, be prepared for potential crowds and wait times, and don't expect white-tablecloth service.

Overall Experience: Is iHouston Barbecue Co. Worth the Visit?

So, after considering the meats, the sides, the ambiance, and the service, the ultimate question remains: Is iHouston Barbecue Co. worth the visit? The answer, as with most things, is nuanced. On the one hand, iHouston Barbecue Co. offers some truly exceptional barbecue, particularly the brisket. The restaurant aims for a casual, welcoming atmosphere, and the prices are generally reasonable. On the other hand, consistency can be an issue, with some meats and sides being better than others. Crowds and inconsistent service can also detract from the overall experience. Ultimately, whether or not iHouston Barbecue Co. is worth the visit depends on your priorities. If you're a die-hard barbecue fan who values flavor above all else, and you're willing to risk inconsistency and potential crowds, then iHouston Barbecue Co. might be worth a try. However, if you're looking for a consistent, high-end barbecue experience with impeccable service, you might want to explore other options in the Houston area. Consider your preferences and your tolerance for potential drawbacks before making a decision. Barbecue is a subjective experience, and what one person loves, another might not. So, do your research, read the reviews, and make an informed decision based on your own preferences.

In conclusion, iHouston Barbecue Co. offers a mixed bag of experiences. While the brisket often receives rave reviews, consistency can be an issue across the menu. The sides are decent but not exceptional, and the ambiance and service can be affected by crowds. If you're a barbecue enthusiast willing to take a chance on potentially outstanding brisket, iHouston Barbecue Co. might be worth a visit. Otherwise, explore your options and find the barbecue joint that best suits your tastes.