Beaumont's BBQ Heaven: 'Patillo’s Bar-B-Q'

A great barbecue joint is characterized by more than just its savory smoked meats; it's an experience that tantalizes all the senses. Firstly, it's about the quality of the meat. Great barbecue joints prioritize sourcing high-quality cuts of meat and take pride in their smoking techniques, resulting in tender, flavorful dishes that are a cut above the rest.

Whether it's ribs, brisket, pulled pork, or chicken, each bite should be infused with the rich, smoky essence that comes from hours of slow-cooking over hardwood.

Additionally, ambiance plays a crucial role in defining a great barbecue joint. From the moment you walk in, you should be greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of smoking meats and the warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment. Whether it's a rustic roadside shack or a trendy urban hotspot, the decor should reflect the joint's dedication to barbecue culture, with perhaps nods to regional traditions or quirky touches that add to the charm. And let's not forget about the sides and sauces—great barbecue joints offer an array of delectable sides and house-made sauces that complement the main event, elevating the dining experience to new heights. Whether you're a barbecue aficionado or a newcomer to the scene, a great barbecue joint leaves a lasting impression with its delicious food, welcoming atmosphere, and unwavering commitment to barbecue excellence.

And in the city of Beaumont, Texas - one BBQ joint attracts all the attention of the entire State: Patillo's.

Jack Patillo's Bar-B-Q provides a unique southeast Texas barbecue experience. During my last visit before writing this article, I noticed the enticing smell of barbecue that is incredibly unique to Patillo's the moment I opened my car door in the parking lot. My sister and I were greeted by a friendly staff member upon finding our own table. The menu is straightforward and simple to understand. I think that the prices are fair, but keep in mind that any meat-related items offered by a restaurant will drive the price up on your receipt fairly quick. I ordered the link plate with potato salad, rice jambalaya, and beans. I also ordered a Coca-Cola with my order. My fiancé ordered the shredded beef plate with the same sides, except he ordered the coleslaw in place of the potato salad. On the menu the restaurant references the potato salad as "salad," so keep that in mind when you are ordering. We were also given four slices of white bread on the side. The food was delivered pretty fast.

As you can probably tell, I'm not a newbie to this spot. To me, it's a true original and Southeast Texas staple. Evidenced by the diversity of the clientele and the fact that it is consistently busy, despite being located in what some might call a "bad neighborhood". Now, if you only like viscous, sweet ketchupy tomato-based barbecue sauces, you might not like Patillo's one-of-a-kind sauce. Patillo's delicious mildly spicy sauce is designed to accent the smoky goodness of the meat, rather than drown it. They offer the usual barbecue meat selections, beef(but not brisket), pork, chicken, and links. All wonderful. Note to the link lover: Don't expect a dry sausage when you order links. Expect a well seasoned grind of meats lightly stuffed into a crispy smoked natural casing, dripping with the magical spicy orange grease that signifies flavor.

To be totally 'above-board', my family and I have been going to Patillo's since I was a kid and it's still my very favorite BBQ! Used to frequent the one on 11th (now closed) but the one on Washington is delish! Their chopped beef sandwich is better than any I've had.

Best of all, the prices are super reasonable. The staff of sweet kind hearted ladies have been working here for many years, and will leave you with a smile on your face. Literally half of what many other local joints charge. But I'd pay double if that's what would keep me rolling in Patillo's BBQ. They have somewhat odd hours, so I recommend calling ahead if you're not familiar with their operation. They are the busiest during lunch hours Monday through Friday. Highly recommended! Hot tip if you want ribs. Don't just order ribs. Order "Rib Ends".

There's no question that a great Texas barbecue joint embodies the essence of Southern hospitality and culinary mastery. It's a place where the tantalizing aroma of smoked meats fills the air, where every bite is a testament to the dedication and skill of the pitmasters. From the succulent brisket to the fall-off-the-bone ribs, each dish tells a story of tradition and passion passed down through generations. But it's not just about the food; it's about the communal spirit, the lively atmosphere, and the shared love for all things barbecue. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Patillo's will make you feel like you're stepping into a great Texas barbecue joint is like stepping into a cherished tradition—a reminder of the rich heritage and flavorful delights that make Texas barbecue truly unforgettable.

The next time you're in Beaumont, give this place a try. Come hungry.

2775 Washington Blvd Beaumont, TX 77705

(409) 833-3156

www.patillosbbqtx.com