Pappas Bar-B-Q offers high quality meats, spice rubbed and slow-smoked in a secret wood blend. Our barbecue is served fresh from the pits all day. Everything is homemade - from the pecan pie, chunky potato salad and crispy slaw to the savory sauces and bold ranch beans. Even the salads are fresh cut daily!
Mixed reviews on food quality; some customers enjoyed the brisket and baked potatoes, while others found the meat dry and overpriced.
Service Issues
Numerous complaints about poor service, including unprofessional behavior from staff and mistakes with orders.
Cleanliness
Concerns raised about cleanliness in dining areas and food handling practices.
Pricing Concerns
Many customers feel that prices are too high for the quality and portion sizes of the food.
Positive Experiences
Some customers praised the friendly staff and enjoyed their meals, indicating that experiences can vary significantly.
PB
Philip Barrett
1 day ago
5.0
Enjoyed the food and the service. Pappas BBQ doesn't disappoint.
SG
Steve Grant
4 days ago
2.0
Worst beef ribs I've ever had. Hardly any meat. Total waste of $30. Had to go to Wendy's afterwards to fill up.
TJ
Tiffany J
4 days ago
1.0
I typically order takeout and never step inside this location, but after today’s experience, I’m honestly glad I finally saw what goes on behind the counter at Papa’s Bar-B-Q on South Main — and even more glad I’ll never be returning.
I placed a simple to-go order for a baked potato and waited about ten minutes with a buzzer in hand. When it went off, I approached the counter expecting to pick up my food… only to find out my order had mysteriously vanished. A different employee stepped in and kindly offered to remake it on the spot. So far, no problem.
The problem started when she handed the potato to the meat cutter.
While sitting and waiting, I watched him the entire time. I saw him wipe his nose with his bare hand — and not once did he wash, sanitize, or clean his hands in any way before touching my food. When I told the employee that this was unacceptable and I did not want that meat, she immediately became defensive. The manager then stepped in, but things somehow got worse.
I mentioned that the portion on the potato didn’t even look like the 4 ounces they claimed it was. There was a scale right next to the cutter, but I had been standing there long enough to know he hadn’t used it once. Instead of properly weighing fresh meat, he took the meat off the potato, put that on the scale, and then put it right back on the food. At that point, I was done. I requested a refund.
Meanwhile, I couldn’t help but notice the dining area — dirty tables everywhere, no staff attempting to clean or prepare the space for guests. It was a mess.
When I asked for my money back, the manager gave me attitude, and the meat cutter actually glared at me and stuck his tongue out — behavior I wouldn’t expect in a professional restaurant, especially from someone handling food.
If you value your health, your safety, and basic cleanliness, I strongly urge you to avoid the Papa’s Bar-B-Q on South Main near Reliant Stadium. This was not just disappointing — it was unsanitary and unacceptable.
RH
Regina Harris
Nov 14, 2025
5.0
One of the few places in Houston that offers a military discount. Thank you for honoring service!
LM
LoLee M
Oct 21, 2025
5.0
I've eaten at Pappa's BBQ 3 times in 2 weeks while I'm Here in a medical trip for a family member. Pappa's is conveniently located right next door to our hotel so we can walk over. The brisket is juicy and plentiful, ribs huge flavorful, but the green beans are really the star. They are roasted or sauteed with tomatoes and onions to the most perfect texture: slightly crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside and perfectly flavored. Healthy. Such a departure from the typically overcooked, overly salty, mushy beans served at BBQ places. The baked potatoes are HUGE and fully loaded-- almost a meal in itself. Potato salad and cole slaw are tangy, reliable sta inples. Haven't had a bad bite yet. The staff is very friendly and they offer generous portions. The atmosphere is upbeat and casual. There's a relaxing patio.
What type of pickup and delivery services does Pappas Bar-B-Q offer?
Pappas Bar-B-Q offers curbside pickup service.
What are the regular operating hours for Pappas Bar-B-Q?
Open Monday through Thursday from 6:30am to 10:00am and then 10:45am to 9:00pm; Friday 6:30am to 10:00am and 10:45am to 10:00pm; Saturday 7:00am to 10:00am and 10:45am to 10:00pm; Sunday 10:45am to 9:00pm with a Drive-Thru closure daily from 10:00am to 10:45am.
Does Pappas Bar-B-Q serve breakfast meals?
Yes, Pappas Bar-B-Q serves breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner.
Is Pappas Bar-B-Q wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the restaurant has wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms.
Does Pappas Bar-B-Q offer outdoor seating and family-friendly amenities?
Yes, it features outdoor seating, welcomes families and children, and has high chairs available.
What is the dress code at Pappas Bar-B-Q?
The dress code at Pappas Bar-B-Q is casual.
Are there any nearby fast food options close to Pappas Bar-B-Q?
Yes, nearby fast food options include Jack in the Box, Sonic Drive-In, Five Guys, Panda Express, and Chipotle Mexican Grill, offering customers various quick meal choices.
What nearby hotels are close to Pappas Bar-B-Q for visitors staying overnight?
Comfort Suites is a nearby hotel, convenient for visitors who want to stay overnight near Pappas Bar-B-Q.
Are there nearby grocery or liquor stores around Pappas Bar-B-Q?
Yes, Uno Mas Liquor is a nearby liquor and grocery store that customers can visit before or after dining.