Recently, we were visiting Galveston Island while Hurricane Michael was barreling toward the Panhandle of Florida. One morning I had walked out on one of the walkways that go out into the Gulf. I struck up a conversation with a local named Bernard. As always where I am involved, the conversation turned to food. I asked for a recommendation on where we could get some tamales for lunch. Without hesitation, he said, "Pennie's." He raved about their tamales and their mixture of beef and pork, he gushed over the perfect ratio of meat to masa, he did everything but escort me there right then. So what were we to do but to try Pennie's? Bernard, I have no idea if you will ever read this, but a million thank yous for your recommendation and a reminder to travelers everywhere to ask the LOCALS where to eat!
Pennie's Tex Mex Take Out is located in a neighborhood a few blocks off of Seawall Boulevard at 1713 37th Street, Galveston, TX 77550 (409) 765-5719.
Here's some information from their website: In 1978 Israel and Connie Ochoa purchased Pennie's Meat Market. Connie, the matriarch of the family and a superb cook, started making tamales and Israel perfected his Barbacoa recipe. Pennie's had been an island staple till Hurricane Ike devastated Galveston Island in 2008 when business plummeted along with the population of the island. In 2016 the decision was made to reopen Pennie's. After an extensive amount of work we reopened on October 24, 2017, but with a twist. Pennie's Tex Mex now serves hill country style bbq with original rubs and sauces crafted by Louis, and the original tamales, barbacoa and menudo recipes from Pennie's Meat Market.
I was told that you need to get there early to make sure you get tamales before they sell out each day. Sweet Harold adores tamales and couldn't wait until lunchtime to arrive. True to Bernard's word, we found Pennie's a few blocks from our motel. Located right in the middle of a neighborhood, we entered the establishment and, yes, there was already a line three people deep. Pennie's is an order at the counter take out spot, but they do have a small area outside with picnic tables and umbrellas where we chose to enjoy our meal.
The aromas were intoxicating. Tamales are sold either half dozen ($6.99) or a dozen ($12.99). Sweet Harold happily ordered a half dozen. Salsa was offered, but he declined. The masa was moist and tender, and the beef/pork filling was very flavorful. The tamales were served hot, and I can imagine if I had a grandmother who made tamales, this is what they would be.
He also ordered a side of potato salad. He took a bite and looked at me. He took another bite and looked at me again. To my inquiry of WHAT? He said, "If I didn't know better, I would think you made this potato salad." I took a bite and had to assure myself that I HADN'T made it. Lots of yellow mustard (just like I love), tender potatoes, and perfect seasoning. A potato salad home run.
Longtime readers of the blog know I adore pulled pork, smoked ribs, and Boston Butts. However, I was more than eager to try their smoked beef brisket. After this sandwich, I realize I have never had authentic beef brisket. Look at the bark and smoke ring! I took one bite and knew I would not be wasting valuable tummy space on the bun. I savored every single bit of this brisket without sauce. Although I'm sure their sauce is delicious, the brisket stood on its own.
The briskets are slow smoked for 10-12 hours starting the day before they are sold. After the briskets form a good bark, they're wrapped in peach treated butcher paper until they are done. The briskets are then allowed to rest before slicing and selling.
The sandwich order comes with your choice of a 4-ounce side item, and I chose the pinto beans. See those pickled jalapenos? Make sure you order those.
The pinto beans are simmered with Pennie's special seasonings, and then at the end of the cooking time, fried bacon and cilantro are added. The sides are offered in 8 oz. ($2.50), pint ($5.00), and quart ($8.99) sizes. I happily ate every bite.
For dessert, we shared the banana pudding trifle. Delicious homemade custard layered with fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and a creamy whipped topping. Once again, we ate (and loved) every morsel!
I had a great visit with the owners after we finished our meal. I wish our stay in Galveston could have lasted long enough to go back and try the ribs, link sausage, chicken, AND the barbacoa.
The hours of business are listed as being open until 6 OR UNTIL THEY SELL OUT whichever comes first. That says a lot. If a restaurant is routinely selling out of food each day, you know that food is great and the owners are doing something right!
Now, I need to eat my breakfast. My stomach growled after looking at these pictures.
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