The Original Rib Tickler

The Original Rib Tickler at 28930 State Highway 249 is a locally owned barbecue restaurant that has served Tomball since 1984. It was founded by Ted and Sylvia Johnson, who remain ambassadors of the business, and has been owned and operated by Frank and Catherine Martinucci and family since February 2019. The specialty is hickory, slow-smoked barbecue made with fresh ingredients, and the menu also includes seafood, salads and American favorites. ABC13 Houston has featured the restaurant's decades of service to Tomball. Catering is a big part of the business: the team caters formal and casual events of all sizes across the Greater Houston area, including Tomball, The Woodlands, Magnolia and Conroe, with complimentary tastings, homemade yeast rolls and full buffet setup. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and early dinner and closed Sundays and Mondays. It's a classic local stop for Texas barbecue on the north side of Tomball. Call (281) 255-8119 to order or book a tasting.