In this episode of “Eat Like a Local”, host Chris Shepherd checks out local barbecue spots that started as passion projects and have grown into staples of Houston’s barbecue community.
CorkScrew BBQ | 26608 Keith St, Spring
First, Chris heads to Old Town Spring to visit CorkScrew BBQ, a family-run barbecue joint that began as a hobby for owner Will Buckman.
Will started smoking meat in his driveway as a way to feed his neighbors. Word soon spread and catering orders began coming in. A food truck followed and finally a permanent spot in Old Town Spring.
Today, CorkScrew is one of the most celebrated barbecue destinations in Texas, even earning a Michelin star.
Will and his wife still run the show day to day, and that hands-on care shows up in every slice of brisket. The meat is deeply smoked, perfectly tender, and served with the kind of confidence that doesn’t need frills.
During his visit, Chris talks with Will about the early days, the long lines, and what it means to earn international recognition while staying rooted in the same craft that started it all.
Ray’s Real Pit BBQ Shack| 3929 Old Spanish Trail, Houston
Taking input from “Eat Like a Local” viewers, Chris’ next stop is Ray’s Real Pit BBQ Shack.
Chris meets owners Rayford Busch, Maxine Davis and Herb Taylor to get the story behind the barbecue. It quickly becomes clear that consistency and attention to detail are the keys to Ray’s success.
Chris calls out the non-traditional techniques that make both the potato salad and peach cobbler a must-try for diners. Then there’s the ribs. Chris says the smoky, sticky, and tender spareribs are some of the best he’s ever had.
Brisket & Rice|6166 Hwy 6 N, Houston
Chris’ last stop is Brisket & Rice. Formerly housed at a gas station, the acclaimed barbecue stop has recently moved into its own space in northwest Houston.
Here, classic juicy brisket gets paired with jasmine rice or the fan-favorite fried rice. The rest of the sides are just as unique with Chris checking out the poor man’s mac and cranberry almond slaw.
“Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” is your guide to the best food in Houston. Watch new episodes Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.
Season 3 of “Eat Like a Local”
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 56: Season 3 of ‘Eat Like a Local’ launches with chefs recognized by the James Beard Awards
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 57: Beer + Bites: Discover two of the Houston-area’s best craft breweries
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 58: Hungry for a short trip? 4 flavorful restaurants to try in Baytown
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 60: From tortas to paletas: Generations of Mexican-American flavor in Houston
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 61: Farmed Fresh: Gulf Coast oysters make waves in Houston restaurants
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 62: Houston’s pizza scene is rising: Chris Shepherd explores top spots for every style
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 67: Discover Houston Asiatown’s unique snacks with Chris Shepherd
- SEASON 3, EPISODE 69: Chris Shepherd’s Houston-area burger picks include a hot new spot and a 50-year classic