Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co., a popular Houston barbecue spot, will no longer serve customers. Phil Gessner, owner of Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co., has closed the eatery as of Monday, May 12. He said the decision to shut down the business was due to challenges with his health.
Highlights
- Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co. shut its doors for good on May 12.
- The barbecue place was owned by a Marine Corps veteran who closed it down due to health issues.
- The food truck was opened in 2019 and had become a favorite among locals and visitors.
Veteran Owner’s Health Issues Force Closure of Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co.
Phil Gessner announced the closing of Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co. through a post on its official Facebook page. Gessner, who is a Marine Corps veteran, said, “Due to health issues I obtained while in the military, my only course of action is to close.”
He went on to thank everyone for their “patronage and support.” He also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to meet people from around the world through his barbecue in the post.
The End of A 6-Year Culinary Journey
It was back in Spring 2019 when Phil Gessner opened Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co. The old-school barbecue place, which was half food truck and half auto shop, was in an unlikely spot near the Woodlands – wedged between car lots on a narrow back street off Sawdust Road.
For breakfast, the barbecue spot used to serve the popular Brisket Breakfast Tacos among other offerings. The smoked barbecues were served later in the day, and the à la carte menu offered Black Angus Prime Brisket, Apple Bourbon St. Louis Ribs and more. Among the sides, Nita Jeans Baked Beans was popular, which was named after Gessner’s wife, Nita and made using one of her recipes.
Community Reaction
Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co. had become a favorite among the locals and also among those visitors who came by the spot on their way to the Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston. That is why it was no surprise that many were sad to see it close down.
“Hope you’ll be ok. Love your place! You will be missed!!” one comment read. “Phil, I’m so sorry to hear this. You’ve worked so hard for so many years and I was so happy for your success, both in the auto repair business, and then the BBQ business. I wish you the best and I pray for your healing and recovery,” another well-wisher said.
“I just moved here a few months ago and am addicted to your food. What will I eat now?? My sincerest love and thanks not just for your food, but the smiles. An even greater love for your service to our Country that used to be the greatest. May God bless you!” another comment read.
The closure of Gessner’s Grub BBQ Co. leaves a gap in Houston’s local barbecue scene.
