Gatlin's BBQ Review - Garden Oaks - Houston - The Infatuation
"In a Garden Oaks strip mall, you’ll find some great barbecue and a whole lot of charm. At any point, you’ll see Mama Gatlin tending to the front counter, dropping food at tables, cracking jokes with regulars, and somehow finding time to help people bring their leftovers to their cars. You come to Gatlin’s BBQ for consistent, juicy barbecue, Southern-style sides, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you stumbled into a kind neighbor's cookout. As with any good barbecue spot, you’re greeted first and foremost with the smell of smoked meat coming from the kitchen. On the weekends, there can be a bit of a line, but that gives you plenty of time to strategize which meat and sides will make up your three-meat plate. Whatever your combination is, make sure it includes the brisket that all but shimmers on your tray. We like the smoked traditional pork sausage as well. And then there are the sides, most of which are Southern comfort staples like crispy fried okra, sweet candied yams, and creamy macaroni and cheese. Gatlin’s also serves massive sandwiches with thick-cut meat that are big enough to share. In addition to having the congeniality of small-town mayoral candidates, the staff also manages to keep the restaurant flowing with ease. They glide from table to table, asking folks how their meals are as they clear the remnants of meat platters and give their personal suggestions on what to order the next time you come (because if you live in Houston, you will be back). Once you’ve been to Gatlin’s, you’ll understand why there’s a loyal crowd of lunch regulars during the week and an ever-present line on the weekends. Any time they’re open, you can expect dependably good barbecue made with a heart that a modest strip mall can barely contain. " - Gianni Greene
