This Barbecue Joint Uses Brick Pits From 1935 Alongside a New Smoker

Jun 12, 2022

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Even though Pizzitola’s—formerly known as Shepherd Drive Bar-B-Q—embraces tradition, the Houston establishment isn’t afraid of modernity.

Pizzitola’s Bar-B-Cue has gone through many transformations in its 87-year history in Houston. The original location was bulldozed to make way for Interstate 10. A name change came along with new ownership in 1983. Since then, it has seen two new owners. And eighteen months ago, the pit room got a new addition: a steel offset smoker. Although the restaurant still uses a pair of ancient brick pits, thanks to a grandfather clause.

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