Barbecue Inn

Hungry Houstonian’s have flocked to Barbecue Inn for more than 60 years to devour plates of crispy golden-fried chicken and country-gravy covered chicken fried steak. And, the truth is, not much has changed at the family-owned institution since opening in 1946.

Even in today’s tech-savvy age, Barbecue Inn doesn’t have a website for potential visitors to surf through. The menu has remained relatively the same throughout the biz’s lifespan (a vintage lineup from 1965 hangs near the front of the restaurant as proof) and the diner-style décor echoes days of the past.

Tips to know before you go: Get there early to avoid the wait. Don’t be thrown off by the name—this place is more popular with locals for its deliciously battered, deep fried comfort food, not its barbecue. It’s closed for business on Sundays and Mondays, so plan accordingly.

• Included on Southern Living's list of 100 Places to Eat Now (2013).
• On Southern Living's list of The South's Best Fried Chicken (2013).
• On Travel + Leisure's list of America's Best Fried Chicken (2010).