Best BBQ in Gilmer, TX | Top Smokehouses & Pitmasters

Best BBQ in Gilmer, TX

Gilmer isn't just a dot on the map between Dallas and Shreveport—it's a legitimate BBQ destination. Texas Monthly has taken notice of what our local pitmasters are doing, and once you taste the bark on a properly smoked brisket here, you'll understand why.

East Texas BBQ has its own personality. We're not Hill Country, and we're not Central Texas. Out here, the meat is saucier, the sides are heartier, and the portions are built for people who spent the morning working outside. Whether you're chasing a perfect smoke ring, massive jalapeño poppers, or all-you-can-eat beans, Gilmer's smokehouses deliver.

Quick Comparison

SpotMust-TryVibeBest For
Dubya's SmokehouseBrisket, jalapeño cheese sausageClassic Texas BBQ jointLunch, sell-out crowds
Doko Smoke BBQJalapeño poppers, pulled porkLaid-back, family-runWeekend BBQ, huge sides

Dubya's Smokehouse

Must-try: Brisket, jalapeño cheese sausage, pulled pork sandwich Phone: 903-797-0070

Dubya's is the name that comes up first in every conversation about Gilmer BBQ—and for good reason. Their brisket is slow-smoked over oak and pecan until the bark is dark, the smoke ring is deep pink, and the meat practically melts under its own weight. Get there early, because they regularly sell out by 2 PM.

The jalapeño cheese sausage snaps when you bite it, with just enough heat to wake you up without overwhelming the flavor. If you're really hungry, the "Big Dubya" plate is a mountain of meat that feeds two normal humans or one determined Texan.

What regulars say:

"Some of the best bar-b-que around. I had the rib sandwich and it was fabulous. Four big juicy ribs on bread. They had a big, help yourself bean pot and it was delicious."

"My husband and I visit here frequently. I just love their pulled pork sandwich and potato salad. They also offer all you can eat brown beans with eat-in meals. Mmmm."

"Great BBQ! Dine in to enjoy the complimentary beans. Turkey and sausage are our family favorites! Friendly employees!"

Insider tip: Order the family pack if you're feeding a group—it saves money and you get a little bit of everything. Their mac and cheese is the best side in town, and the free bean pot ( dine-in only) is the kind of old-school touch you don't see anymore.

Doko Smoke BBQ

Must-try: Jalapeño poppers, pulled pork, smoked turkey Phone: 903-680-PIGS (7447) (Thurs–Sun); 903-215-9467 (Mon–Wed, call or text) Website: dokosmokewestbbq.com

If Dubya's is the established king, Doko Smoke is the rising challenger with a cult following. Their jalapeño poppers alone are worth the drive—massive, bacon-wrapped, cream-cheese-stuffed monsters that have developed a reputation across East Texas. These aren't the tiny poppers you get at a chain restaurant. These are life-changing.

Beyond the poppers, Doko does classic BBQ right. The pulled pork is hand-pulled daily, the sauce is made in-house, and the sides are built for people with appetites. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a solid weekend stop after hitting Barnwell Mountain or exploring the backroads.

Insider tip: Check their hours before you go—they split their phone lines by day, and weekend availability can vary. The poppers sell out fast, so call ahead if you're making a special trip.

What to Know Before You Go

BBQ Etiquette in Gilmer

  • Cash is king. Some of our smokehouses prefer cash, and others don't take cards at all. Hit the ATM before you smell the smoke.
  • Arrive early. Real BBQ takes time to cook, and when it's gone, it's gone. Lunch rush (11:30 AM–1 PM) is when the meat is freshest, but it's also when lines are longest.
  • Call ahead for large orders. If you're picking up BBQ for a family reunion, a hunting camp, or a Yamboree tailgate, give them 24–48 hours notice.
  • Dine-in for the full experience. Dubya's complimentary bean pot is dine-in only, and both spots have a warmer, more communal feel when you eat there.

    • BBQ by the Numbers

    ItemTypical Price
    Brisket plate (1 meat, 2 sides)$14–18
    Sausage link$4–6
    Family pack (feeds 4–6)$45–60
    Jalapeño poppers (Doko)Market price

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who has the best brisket in Gilmer? Dubya's Smokehouse is the local consensus. The bark, smoke ring, and tenderness are consistently excellent, and they've earned recognition beyond Gilmer for a reason.

    Is Doko Smoke BBQ worth the trip? Absolutely—especially if you're a jalapeño popper fan. The poppers alone justify the drive, and the pulled pork and turkey are excellent backups if you somehow don't fill up on appetizers.

    Do either of these places take reservations? No. Both are counter-service BBQ joints. Show up, order at the counter, and find a seat.

    What's the best time to go? 11:30 AM–12:30 PM for the freshest meat. Avoid showing up after 1:30 PM on weekends if you want a full selection.

    Can I order BBQ for events? Yes. Both Dubya's and Doko handle large orders with advance notice. Call directly to discuss pricing and pickup times.

    Last updated: July 2026