After 20 Years, Brooks’ Place BBQ Closes for Good in Cypress
CYPRESS, TX — An East Texas Barbecue Staple Bids Farewell
After two decades of serving up some of the region’s most beloved smoked meats, Brooks’ Place BBQ has officially closed its pits for good. The barbecue trailer, founded and run by pitmaster Trent Brooks, announced its last day of service as August 28, 2025, ending a run that earned critical acclaim and loyal fans across Houston and beyond.
A History of Smoke and Success
Brooks’ Place first opened in northwest Houston before settling into Cypress, where it became a cornerstone of the local barbecue scene. In 2013, the joint was spotlighted by Texas Monthly, praised for its minimally trimmed brisket with a perfectly rendered fat cap — a rarity in Houston barbecue. That same year, Houston Chronicle food critic Alison Cook gave the trailer a glowing review, cementing Brooks’ Place as a top destination for serious barbecue lovers.
The menu was a reflection of East Texas-style barbecue, known for its robust smoke and bold flavors. Staples included brisket, ribs, sausage, and pulled pork, often complemented by creative sandwiches and rotating side dishes.
The Road to Closure
In 2024, Brooks closed his longtime spot on FM 529 Barker Cypress and relocated to 8102 Fry Road in Cypress. Despite the move, he announced on social media earlier this summer that the trailer’s final day would be at the end of August.
“This is something I’ve never experienced or thought I would. But here we are,” Brooks wrote. “We had a good 20-year run. The emotional roller-coaster is what it is. Nothing good lasts forever.” No specific reason was given for the closure.
What Brooks’ Place Meant to the Community
For fans, Brooks’ Place was more than just another barbecue trailer. It was where families lined up for weekend brisket, where Houston barbecue culture was defined, and where Trent Brooks’s dedication to his craft was always front and center.
Author’s POV: Having followed Texas barbecue for years, Brooks’ Place always stood out for its authenticity. It wasn’t just about the food — it was about a pitmaster’s devotion to tradition and community. Losing it feels like losing a piece of Houston’s barbecue identity.
An End of an Era
While Brooks’ Place has closed its pits permanently, its legacy will linger in Houston’s culinary memory. From its accolades in national publications to the loyal locals who swore by its brisket, the trailer leaves behind a two-decade story of passion, smoke, and community.
“Thank you for all the support,” Brooks wrote in his farewell message. “The relationships, friends, and acquaintances we’ve made over the years are greatly appreciated.”
Were you a fan of Brooks’ Place BBQ in Cypress? Share your memories of brisket and ribs in the comments, and keep following CityScoopNow.com for more updates on Texas restaurant closures and the stories behind them.