Lamar & Niki’s Pit BBQ & Soul Food Cafe

Lamar & Niki’s Pit BBQ & Soul Food Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary love story brought to life by high school sweethearts Lamar and Niki Cole. Their journey, which began at Bryan High School, has flourished into a thriving business that marries soul food traditions with genuine hospitality. Niki Cole often speaks about the joy she finds in connecting with patrons, noting that one of the most rewarding aspects of their business is meeting customers and sharing daily conversations and laughter with them. This sentiment is evident in every aspect of their establishment, making each visit feel like a homecoming.

In 2014, Lamar and Niki Cole fulfilled their lifelong dream of serving authentic soul food and barbecue in the Bryan area by opening Lamar & Niki’s Pit BBQ & Soul Food Cafe. Recognized by Yelp as one of the Top 100 Places To Eat In Texas for 2021, this beloved eatery has become a staple in the Brazos Valley, known for its mouthwatering Southern dishes and warm, familial atmosphere.

The restaurant’s menu is a tribute to Southern culinary traditions. Dishes such as crispy fried chicken, succulent pork neck bones, tender brisket, and creamy mac n’ cheese are crafted with love and care. From candied yams that taste like “sweet potato pie without the crust” to moist cornbread, every bite at Lamar & Niki’s is infused with the Coles’ heartfelt approach to cooking. Lamar Cole’s cooking, inspired by his mother and grandmother, follows an “old-fashioned” style where recipes are guided by intuition. His deep-rooted culinary skills shine through in every dish.

Niki Cole’s spirit of experimentation has led to delightful surprises on the menu, such as their now-famous red cabbage, which she fondly calls “God’s gift to us.” This innovative approach complements Lamar’s traditional methods, creating a unique dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more. Their commitment to quality and flavor is evident in every dish, whether it’s the smothered turkey wing, sausage with dressing, or the perfectly smoked ribs and brisket.

The charm of Lamar & Niki’s extends beyond the food to the ambiance and service. The cozy, family-friendly restaurant offers a buffet-style experience with daily specials that feature a variety of smoked meats and soul food favorites. The friendly staff, often seen with smiles and ready to serve, add to the welcoming atmosphere. Regular patrons rave about the catfish, described as tender and perfectly seasoned, and the candied sweet potatoes, hailed as the “best ever tasted.”

For those seeking a soulful dining experience filled with heart and flavor, Lamar & Niki’s Pit BBQ & Soul Food Cafe is the place to be. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Coles invite you to join them for a meal that nourishes both body and soul. Whether you’re indulging in beef tips with butter beans and cabbage, savoring oxtail over rice, or enjoying the legendary peach cobbler, each visit promises to be a delightful journey into the heart of Southern cuisine.

Lamar & Niki’s Pit BBQ & Soul Food Cafe is more than just a dining destination; it’s a culinary haven where tradition meets innovation, and every meal is a celebration of love and flavor. Experience the warmth, taste the love, and become part of the family at Lamar & Niki’s.

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