Back in 2016, nestled in the heart of Houston, Texas, Apocalypse BBQ lit its first fire — not with a bang, but with a slow, smoky whisper of promise. Founded by pitmaster James McFarland, a former firefighter turned brisket alchemist, Apocalypse BBQ started as a small food truck serving friends, neighbors, and anyone craving old-school Texas barbecue with a twist. What began as a weekend side hustle quickly smoked its way into a local phenomenon.
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The restaurant’s rise was anything but ordinary. As word spread through food festivals, social media, and backyard BBQ fanatics, lines began to form early — often wrapping around the block by noon. The buzz was simple: McFarland’s meat was different. His brisket was tender with just the right bark, the ribs slid clean off the bone, and his jalapeño-cheddar sausage became the stuff of local legend. By 2019, the food truck had grown into a full-fledged smokehouse, and Apocalypse BBQ found its permanent home.
Apocalypse BBQ Menu (Full Update Menu 2025)
Starter
Burgers
Smoked Meats
BBQ Sandwiches
Tacos
Sides
Sweets
Cocktails
Mocktails
As their loyal fanbase grew, so did the menu. What started with just brisket and ribs now includes smoked turkey, burnt ends, loaded mac and cheese, and fiery sauces named after post-apocalyptic references. But here’s the part most casual diners miss — the secret menu.
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Yes, Apocalypse BBQ hides a few mouthwatering treasures off the grid. Those in the know whisper about the “Doomsday Tacos”, packed with chopped brisket, pickled onions, and drizzled with ghost pepper aioli. Others seek out the “Zombie Melt”, a grilled cheese sandwich stuffed with pulled pork, bacon jam, and smoked gouda. These items don’t appear on the wall, but a wink to the staff or a quiet question can open up a whole new layer of the Apocalypse experience.
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And through it all, one dish has remained untouched — the original smoked brisket, seasoned with McFarland’s house rub and smoked for 18 hours. It’s still the soul of the restaurant, and a bite of it is like tasting where it all began.
Whether you’re new or a die-hard fan, Apocalypse BBQ offers not just bold flavors, but a story worth sinking your teeth into — especially if you know what to ask for.
