Spring, Texas Is a Houston Suburb Known for Michelin-starred Barbecue. It also has celebrity ties.

After spending two decades in San Antonio I was certain that the best Texas barbecue could be found in my city—until a visit to Spring, a quiet Houston suburb, challenged everything I thought I knew about the Lone Star State’s food scene.

Even though it takes about 3.5 hours to drive from Houston Spring is not something I think about. When the first-ever Texas Michelin Guide As soon as I heard that CorkScrew BBQ in my hometown had been awarded one Michelin Star, I was intrigued.

With approximately 63,000 residents—a marked contrast to Houston’s population of 2.4 million—Spring has counted multiple celebrities among its numbers. Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles You can also find out more about the following: Big Bang Theory Jim Parsons and Lee PaceGuardians of the Galaxy, Lord of the RingsAll of them grew up at the Texas destination.

Where to Eat and drink

CorkScrew BBQ Old Town Spring was the original settlement. Today, it’s the suburb’s bustling downtown, packed with more than 100 shops, bars, restaurants—and one Michelin-starred love letter to smoked meat.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Will and Nichole Buckman, CorkScrew BBQ is Southern hospitality in action—from staff taking drink orders for guests still in line to a message on the chalkboard inside that captures the spirit of the place: “Brisket > Heaven.”

Order the pulled pork and a side of pit smoked beans—often second fiddles on many BBQ menus, these under-appreciated food items steal the spotlight at CorkScrew thanks to a perfect blend of seasoning and sauce. I regret not having bought extras to take back to San Antonio.

Within walking distance from CorkScrew, there are two speakeasy bars. Inside a nondescript house in white, you’ll find the appropriately named CorkScrew. Prohibition Texas Perfect for an old fashioned with Hellfire Bitters or a Texas Heat Wave.

You can also find it in a small, unassuming area. MB Speakeasy The bar specializes in handcrafted cocktails, with rotating musical acts. The lounge has a range of refreshing, mocktails that will make any guest feel right at home.

Keep your appetite for Wunsche Bros. Cafe & Saloon. Another nod to Old Town Spring’s storied past, the saloon pays tribute to Spring locals Charlie and Dell Wunsche—the brothers utilized the space as a hotel, brothel, and tavern in the early 20th century. Legend says that Charlie and Dell never paid their tab. What do they want? A chicken-fried steak, a Spring club sandwich or a cold beer?

CorkScrew BBQ has been recognized by Michelin as one of the best barbecues in the region. Only a 15-minute trip from Old Town Spring. Belly of the Beast The menu showcases the first-generation Mexican heritage of chef Thomas Bille through elevated Mexican cuisine. Highlights include ceviche de pescado Coconuts are a delicious way to eat. leche de tigre Scallops on half-shell with peach and a tangy fish marinade broth Aguachile, Texas Wagyu Carne Asada and other refined dishes. Bille, a chef from Texas, was also awarded the James Beard Award 2025 for Best Chef in Texas.

What to do

Spring Creek Greenway, or Pundts Park are great for nature lovers. The Pundt Park is a 380 acre outdoor recreation area with two lakes and a playground. It also has a multi-use trail, two pavilions and bicycle racks.

The area is a great place for families to cool off. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown. The Spring Area Water Park is open 7 days a Week.

Located in Humble, Texas about a 30 minute drive away, the Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens Another family-friendly choice is the zoo. The public can enjoy this park for free. It has up to 300 acre of greenery.