Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    LJ's BBQ

    4.7 (216 reviews)
    ModerateBarbeque
    Closed 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

    LJ's BBQ Photos

    LJ'S BBQ ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Divey
    Casual
    Outdoor seating
    Good for kids

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - LJ's BBQ

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    The kind of place you just wanna hang out.
    Loyd B.

    We stopped in for lunch. The place was packed with a line out the door. They are open from 11am to 3pm. Or as long as food lasts. At 12:30 the Sold out sign went up on the door. The brisket sandwiches both chopped and sliced were absolutely perfect. And the employees were upbeat and working to get all those hungry folks fed. Come early! The place is small but once you sit at your table (if you're lucky enough to get one) seemingly becomes an enormous hall.

    Juncel A.

    Dropped in late afternoon after a Blue Bell visit and, despite being past prime hours, the team was warm and welcoming. Decent amount dining space, and a lot of country music décor on the walls. Brisket and pork steak were sold out, so we went with what was left--pork ribs and smoked turkey. The ribs had that deep, smoky bark with a bold salt-and-pepper crust, while the turkey was unexpectedly the standout: tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Sides included silky braised cabbage (a sleeper hit) and Mexican street corn, which was decent but not a highlight. A solid BBQ stop in Brenham--worth seeking out! Will definitely be back for their brisket and pork steak.

    Tray of deliciousness
    Sean L.

    We pulled into Brenham with stomachs growling and fingers crossed that LJ's still had burnt ends. The sign didn't say SOLD OUT, so we jumped out of that truck like we were running from a vegan potluck. TL;DR: LJ's BBQ in Brenham delivered on brisket bark, burnt-end brilliance, and a cold elote curveball that worked. Mac and cheese got the daughter's stamp of approval, and I got my 31st Texas Monthly passport stamp. It was midday on a Saturday and the BBQ roadtrip was rolling hard. My daughter decided to join me for a father-daughter bonding session forged in smoke and meat. We pulled into LJ's around 1:45 PM, praying to the brisket gods, and were rewarded with the best news you can see on a Texas BBQ door: no sold out sign. I've been here before, and last time I left with tears in my eyes and a sausage-less soul. But not today. The line was gone, the staff was smiling, and the counter was still slinging burnt ends. We ordered a two-meat plate with burnt ends and moist brisket, plus sides of mac-n-cheese and elote. The burnt ends were barky, rich, sticky, and divine. If a cube of brisket and a candy bar had a lovechild, this would be it. The slice of moist brisket was textbook central Texas. Fat cap rendered just enough, deep pink smoke ring, bark that snapped back like a good comeback. Now listen, this BBQ dad has a strict no-fly zone when it comes to mac and cheese. I didn't even flinch in its direction. But my daughter? She dove in like it owed her money. One bite in and she gave it that look: eyes closed, slow nod, total reverence. She called it cheesy in all the right ways. I call it: not my business. Then came the elote. We both bit in and paused like someone had hit the mute button. Cold? Cold corn? We hadn't read the menu close enough. But then... we kept eating. It was creamy, cheesy, tangy, and hit different on a warm day. That cold elote snuck up on us and stuck the landing. The vibe in LJ's is old-school butcher paper, red-and-white checkered tables, and good tunes humming low. Before we left, we got the all-important stamp in the Top 50 passport and snapped a pic outside by the mural. I rocked my orange shirt like a man on a mission. And I am. Why did the burnt end break up with the sausage? Because it needed space to meat its true potential.

    Inside
    Jason N.

    Wow! Finally found great BBQ! I had the ribs and my wife had the pulled pork. Absolutely amazing. We both had the Mac n cheese. YES! Coleslaw and potato salad definitely accompanied everything. Went on a Saturday morning. Got there about 10:30am. They open at 11am. Line was already forming. Once the doors open the line moves at a good pace. Most everyone has their order ready. The staff is amazing and the decor inside is my type of style. Highly recommended and can't wait to get up there again

    Brisket, Mac, Potato salad, beans

    The brisket and mac & cheese are SOO good!! We love coming here anytime we're in town!!

    Le menu
    Rubén L.

    There's a reason why LJ's is listed in Texas Monthly's best new comers; the food is outstanding and it's a throwback to classic Texas BBQ joints. LJ is right there behind the counter asking what you want and cuts your protein. The rest of the staff were friendly asking about sides and drinks and settling the tab. Sausage was good and crisp but not one ounce of grease dripped. The ribs were tender and juicy with a light taste of seasoning that complements the Smokey flavor. Brisket was super tasty, flavorful bark and very tender. The only thing I didn't like is that two of my slices were too think, like a quarter-inch. It's a small dining area but there is outdoor seating and the ambiance feels like a small town joint selling good Texas 'Que.

    Uses quality meat
    Alysha D.

    Went here on a recommendation from a local we had work meeting with. Definitely worth a stop! It's most nostalgic for me when I walk into a BBQ joint that has the red and white plaid table cloths. I love that the line moved quickly and the staff was attentive. We had the chopped beef & sausage Big Dog sandwich, the brisket Mac n cheese and a side of coleslaw. I liked that they cut the brisket off the slab and chopped it fresh in front of you and did not sauce it. Don't sleep on the marinated onions and homemade pickles!!! I added some chopped beef from my sandwich into the boat with those with a touch of sauce and could literally could eat that all day. The sauce was good and peppery, not too runny and not too sweet. The brisket is the star here for sure. Great flavor, moist and good bark. The sausage has good flavor but for my personal preference, was ground to smooth inside. Mac n cheese was cheesy and they use white cheese. Would return if I'm in the area to try some other meats and sides and get more brisket

    Ron F.

    A BBQ Experience Worthy of Its Ranking! LJs BBQ is a Texas Monthly Top 50 BBQ award winner, and it's clear this spot absolutely deserves the recognition. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming, with a nicely decorated dining area and plenty of seating. The staff was incredibly friendly, which made the experience even better. But of course, the real star was the food. Let's start with the brisket. I tried both the lean and the moist cuts, and they were both cooked to absolute perfection. The bark was fantastic--a deep, flavorful crust that gave way to incredibly tender meat. We were also offered a sample of the burnt ends, and they were delicious, a rich and savory bite that left me wanting more. The Hatch Chili Oaxaca sausage was another highlight. It had a smooth, mild flavor that let the sausage itself shine. The cheese had a nice texture and a subtle hint of chili that wasn't overpowering. The ribs were also outstanding. They had a great bite, just the right amount of pull from the bone, and a wonderful flavor. The classic salt and pepper rub was perfectly balanced, enhancing the meat without dominating it. For the sides, I was impressed with the potato salad. It was wonderfully creamy, loaded with big pieces of potato and bacon, and had just the right amount of onion for a nice tang. The mac and cheese was also great, with a very creamy sauce that had a fantastic flavor. While the noodles were a little on the softer side, it didn't take away from how delicious the dish was overall. Overall, this is a top-tier barbecue joint that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a truly great BBQ experience.

    Two meat plate. Definitely get your moneys worth!!!
    Khalil C.

    Wow. What a great meal! The brisket was perfectly cooked and seasoned. The pork ribs were great. I would have liked a touch of sweetness to them, but it was not at all necessary. Just my opinion. The pork steak was smoked just right. The jalapeño cheese sausage was incredible. Don't miss the Mac and cheese. Maybe my favorite of any BBQ place I have been, ever. You can tell that everything is made with love. Great job. We will be seeing you again soon.

    Duncan D.

    Amazing BBQ! A bunch of "good ole boys" making great BBQ! If you are anywhere close it is worth the trip.

    Menu

    Both the Brisket and ribs had absolutely zero flavor. Zero smoke flavor. Zero salt. They really tasted steamed, more than anything. Meat was soft and juicy, but again zero flavor. Cabbage was good Beans were good Best part: pickled onions. I had to put them on everything just to get some flavor. Not really sure why this place is rated so high. Maybe because there is no strong bbq competition in brenham? Maybe an off day?

    Get the ribs, brisket, and mac 'n cheese.

    See all

    Photo of Kris U.
    613
    1157
    1479

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ryan G S.
    41
    42
    10

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    If you want great BBQ, go to Truth BBQ. If you want terrible bbq and service, LJ's is your place.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Everything is delicious. Literally every single thing. Personal fav is the mac and cheese w/pulled pork.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Nina B.
    120
    47
    26

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of M E.
    0
    25
    25

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of David B.
    133
    37
    27

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    I drive all the way over here from my home in Austin in order to eat bbq. That should tell you a lot. Everything on the menu is wonderful!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of WD S.
    65
    348
    100

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lauren P.
    173
    213
    16

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Great food and friendly environment and quick service. If there's a long line is moves quickly and worth it

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Best BBQ I've ever had - and don't skip on the banana pudding! Ribs and brisket were incredible.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    The worst bbq. Over salted and used way too much black pepper without using any other spices! Yuck!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Mediocre food and service. A lot of people like this place which means they haven't tried Truth BBQ, go there for a fantastic meal.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tere M.
    9
    50
    36

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Would definitely eat there again. Moist brisket piled high! Good sauce and quick service.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jo L.
    0
    31
    6

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    So good! Best mac & cheese, the jalapeño cheese sausage is A1! Definitely worth the wait!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 3 of 6

    LJ's BBQ Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - LJ's BBQ

    Do they have beef ribs?

    Not on the menu and I have not seen them as special,

    Do you have gluten free options?

    As far as what? On sides we have collard greens, pinto beans, cole slaw and potato salad.

    Not open until 6 on 09/30/2017. Hours posted not correct?

    We are open til 6 or sold out. Yelp will not let us customize the hours. It is on the door though. Thanks for looking us up and hope to see you next time.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    True Texas BBQ

    True Texas BBQ

    2.8
    (5 reviews)
    1.8 mi

    OK first time to try this H-E-B barbecue here in Brenham from what I understand they've had several…read moresetbacks and they were scheduled to open in October 2023 but due to a fire and other issues they opened approximately four days ago. My first impression was yes this is a good thing. To place an order, you must approach a tent covered kiosk and type in your order with your phone number and they will text you when your order is ready that's the simple part...... the hard part is actually getting the order that you placed . A customer in front of me ordered several sandwiches only to find out that some of her items were not placed in her bag, and they actually recalled her order, and they had to simply reassemble the order altogether; that was rather depressing, but I thought, simply by ordering three items they could not mess up my order.....Not so fast. I simply ordered a rack of ribs, 1 pound of sliced turkey and a single individual order of collard greens.. when I got home, I realized that they did not include the collard greens. Wow technically 1/3 of my order was missing altogether. As for the quality of the food that I actually received, the ribs were quite large and flavorful although I thought the smoky flavor was a bit much but the turkey was absolutely fabulous. I could cut it with a fork. . They do include sauce and other condiments, but they're spicy sauce was way too spicy for any of us to consume, and their sweet sauce must've been made with an overabundance of molasses because we threw those sauce packets away. So the spicy sauce must've been prepared in the house because you had to dip it into a container while you waited for the food to be prepared but the sweet sauce was in a pre-packaged container and yet there was no indication of any ingredients, even though it was obviously Prepared by an off site vendor(probably H-E-B out of San Antonio) . I suggest having a bottle of "Head" sweet barbecue sauce, handy to enhance the meal. Although they did offer pickles and onions with the order, there was barely enough to simply cover two slices of bread. I spent over $60 for this meal, and to get such a lame amount of condiments is unacceptable. They at least should have asked me how many portions of pre-bagged, onions, and pickles That I would like to have included with my order. I will give them another try because I have yet to sample their brisket and other highly anticipated items on their menu ..........

    It was in the H‑E‑B store. Sure food is good. But not my idea of a restaurant…read more Can't comment on service or ambiance. It was a grocery store!

    Photos
    True Texas BBQ
    True Texas BBQ
    True Texas BBQ

    See all

    BT Longhorn Steakhouse

    BT Longhorn Steakhouse

    3.2
    (193 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$

    Great homie/saloon feeling w/ good music. The service was quick and very attentive. One aspect that…read moreneeds work is the food. I have never come across a restaurant that had the most bland food. I seriously think they forgot to add in spices. My chicken tortilla soup was so sad and bland I put a ton of salt and pepper. Just to season the soup. The kids meal was Macc and cheese which was "Kraft Mac and cheese , and the grilled shrimp was just grilled without season. Overall, the food needs a lot of work.

    Let me preface this by saying that I went into BT Longhorn to get a steak, and didn't end up…read moreordering a steak, so if there are good reviews on the steak that is served here, please refer to them if you want to know more about the steak. The ambience was about right for what they were going for, with a saloon-like feel. The staff were generally friendly. The music and TVs weren't too loud. Not bad there. Now... I ordered the Seafood Fettuccine, which had shrimp, crawfish and andouille sausage in a seafood type sauce. Kind of a cross between fettuccine alfredo and pastalaya, if you get my drift. The seafood, pasta and sausage were all cooked generally fine. What surprised me was how bland the dish was. The whole dish generally needed salt, (which I applied, and it did help) and it was screaming for some personality, in the form of Cajun seasoning, Louisiana hot sauce, or probably both. I guess if any cream was added to the sauce, it really diluted the flavor. The garlic bread that they served with it did the best it could to help. Keep in mind, I'm paying $30.58 for this project and a glass of sweet tea. On top of that, my debit card gets charged for another table by mistake. My waitress did apologize and reversed the payment, so that I would keep the money. I mean...it was good enough to get me to eat here the first time. But I'd be hard-pressed if it convinced me to eat here a second time, even if for a steak. With food prices getting higher and higher these days, I have to get pretty choosy about where I go for restaurants. This one...IDK.

    Photos
    BT Longhorn Steakhouse
    Cheese burger that had no cheese, bland taste.
    Cheese burger that had no cheese, bland taste.
    Front door to BT Longhorn Saloon and Steakhouse

    See all

    Front door to BT Longhorn Saloon and Steakhouse

    LJ's BBQ - bbq - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...