Goode Co. Barbeque – Kirby

Goode Co. Barbeque - Kirby
Jim Goode revolutionized the business of barbecue when he opened this barbecue joint-meets-ice house on a then-quiet stretch of Kirby Drive in 1977, combining CTX-style barbecue with a Houston flair.

To understand the profound influence of the original Goode Co. Barbeque – Kirby, you must first understand the business of barbecue in the early 1970s. Most barbecue joints were associated with rural locations (Lockhart, Taylor) or specific neighborhoods in urban areas (Lockwood Inn in Fifth Ward). Most barbecue fans had their neighborhood place, and that’s where they went.

Goode changed that by making barbecue a destination. Through savvy marketing (he originally worked as a graphic designer) and clever story-telling, he re-packaged the myth of Texas barbecue with creative culinary techniques, producing great smoked meats as well as delicious side dishes and desserts. As food became a greater part of American culture heading into the 1980s (food television shows and food sections in newspapers), Goode Co. was way ahead of the curve combining great food with engaging stories that reflected the unique culture of southeast Texas.

PHOTO GALLERY

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LOCATION DETAILS

Building: This is the original barn-like structure that has housed the restaurant since Jim Goode opened it. Small inside dining room with a large outdoor, covered patio with plenty of picnic tables.
Parking: There are a few spots in front and on the side with a large paved lot in the back and spillover at Armadillo Palace across the street.
Ordering: Standard counter/cafeteria-ordering system; lineup and choose your drink from the cooler, then grab a tray and utensils. You'll place your meat order with the cutter and then your side dish order. Take your tray to the checkout and then find a seat.
Catering: Pickup, delivery and full service available. Can also cook on-site. They also partner with event venues for a full turnkey service. Website: https://goodecatering.com.
Pit(s): Oyler rotisseries.

VIDEO TOUR

VITAL INFO

Owner(s): Goode Family
Pitmaster(s): Levi Goode
Established: 1977
Address: 5109 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77098
Hours: 7 days, 11AM-8:30PM
Phone: (713) 522-2530
Known for: The Czech-style housemade sausage is always a fan-favorite, along with the jalapeno-cheese bread, a sauce reminiscent of an Italian red sauce, and of course the addictive pecan pie.
Pro-tip: Though there is a tiny dining room, the real action is out on the covered patio where West U natives mingle with Texas barbecue-curious tourists.
Brisket price/lb: $23.95
Price Date: 2021-04-10

FEATURES

Style(s): Central Texas
Neighborhood(s): Central, West U
Building Type: Stand-Alone
Primary Wood(s): Mesquite
Primary Pit Type(s): Rotisserie
Meals Served: Lunch, Dinner
Drinks: Beer, Wine

MEDIA COVERAGE

Levi Goode juggles family tradition with business relevance
Houston Chronicle
Jim Goode: Remembering a towering figure of Houston's food scene
Houston Chronicle
Houston's influential Goode Co. BBQ opened its doors 40 years ago today
Chron.com
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