Texas Stories

Robert Patillo, owner of Patillo’s Bar-B-Q in Beaumont, has continued his family business that’s been a local staple since 1912. Known for being one of the oldest family-owned barbecue joint in Texas, Patillo’s has remained a hidden gem.

Their location has changed once since its beginning, but the restaurant is filled with memories and pictures covering the walls from decades ago. As soon as you walk in, you’re hit with a nostalgia for a time when things moved a little slower and people sat down to enjoy each other’s company over a meal.

Smoked beef links remain the restaurant’s best-seller after all these years.

Texans drive from all across the state to visit Patillo’s and try a plate of their famous beef links. And the locals? They’re not shy to tell you how much they love the links and the barbecue sauce served with them.

The link recipe hasn’t changed since his great-grandfather was running and things, and Robert is determined to keep it that way. Links are made from brisket and are all all seasoned, stuffed, cut and tied by hand.

Patillo’s has been in Robert’s family four generations. Local customers have been coming here their entire life, and often times sit and visit with Robert long after they’ve finished their barbecue.

A big part of Patillo’s success is their commitment to consistency. Robert’s dedication is reflected in how he trains his employees like Quincy Akers, pitmaster of more than 10 years.

“The barbecue sauce, the link mix, the seasoning you season the brisket with—I grabbed a pen to write it down, but he wouldn’t let me write it down,” Quincy said. “He made me memorize it.”

If you make a trip down to Patillo’s, don’t be surprised to see Robert catching up with old friends and making new ones. Investing in the community his family has been part of for generations is his mission, and he’s not stopping any time soon.