The McKenzie family is building a small  empire using fire and ashes. The McKenzies operate three McKenzie’s Barbeque and Burgers restaurants north of Houston.

The locally-owned chain has built its reputation on serving slow-cooked barbecue, sliced meats, brisket, ribs, sausage and hamburgers.

Owner Darin McKenzie opened the Conroe location of the family-owned chain in 1995. His older brother Scott started the McKenzies barbecue brand in 1992 after opening the flagship location in Huntsville. Darin opened a third restaurant in Montgomery in 2009.

Both brothers take a personal and active role in managing all aspects of the business’ operation and cooking, McKenzie said, adding he sometimes starts preparations as early as 4:30 a.m.

He said the eatery’s brisket is cooked for 18 to 22 hours over oak hardwood, and the meats are cut when ordered. The menu also features traditional barbecue sides, such as corn on the cob, baked beans, cheesy macaroni and coleslaw.

“We’re not cutting any corners in the process just to make a quick profit,” McKenzie said.

The menu features a variety of stand-alone meats or sandwiches, burgers and baked potato toppings. The restaurant also provides catering for large and small parties and events.

“I’d say our signature dish is our pork spare ribs,” McKenzie said. “But brisket—being a staple of barbecue in Texas—is the most popular.”

McKenzie said the family prides itself in serving fresh meats. The pit burns nonstop, although the restaurant is open only six days a week.

McKenzie said his parents and siblings have been supportive throughout the founding and expansion of the business. He said his brother anticipates opening a fourth location in Madisonville sometime this year.

Although the restaurant chain has become a fixture in the community, McKenzie said operating the business has not come without its challenges.

“It was tough,” he said. “There were a couple times when we probably should have shut down but didn’t. I’m just a very determined person.”

1501 N. Frazier St.,
Conroe
936-539-4300
www.mckenziesbarbeque.com
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Closed Sundays

17099 Walden Road, Ste. 200,
Montgomery
936-582-7444
www.mckenziesbarbeque.com
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Closed Sundays