The Grand Canyon State has its fair share of cowboys, and it’s common knowledge that once you’re in cowboy-land there’s no doubt that you’ll be running into some delicious barbecue eateries. Whether you’re in love with the tender meats or savory sauces, it’s good to have a plate of some this mouthwatering cuisine to cure your cravings. Here are some of the tastiest barbecue joints in Arizona.
Little Miss BBQ, Phoenix (Multiple Locations)
The meat is so fresh at Little Miss BBQ, that you’ll think twice about going somewhere else the next time that you go on a hunt for some good barbecue. Not only are their traditional entrees some of the best you’ll find in town, but they also serve a killer pecan pie and their locally renowned jalapeno cheddar grits. It can be said with certainty that no one will leave this place with hunger pains.
Arizona BBQ Shack, Scottsdale
If you’re in the mood for some of the finest southwestern meats served in a casual atmosphere, Arizona BBQ Shack is just what you’re looking for. This place not only knows how to feed a hungry customer with their decent portion sizes, but everything from their beef brisket to pulled pork is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. In addition to that, the staff are incredibly friendly and provide fantastic, fast service. As a bonus their prices are very affordable, so eating there more than once in a week shouldn’t be too hard on the wallet!
BrushFire BBQ, Tucson
When you get the craving for some tangy finger-lickin’ sauces on incredible tender meats, be sure to head to Brushfire in Tucson. Their classic barbecue menu is something to write home about. They have a decent selection of different sauces to smother your ribs, wings, or “messy fries,” so everyone in your party is bound to find something they like.
Andrew's BBQ, Tempe
Andrew Vander Stoep is a native of Phoenix and is without a doubt one of the best meat smokers in the entire city. His specialty is roasting his meat slow in his smoker and even receives his cherry wood from the northern Michigan Peninsula. There is so much variety on the menu at Andrew’s BBQ that it wouldn’t be difficult to please everyone who dines there, from his barbecue sandwiches to his sampler plates that feature his own Stoep sauce.
The Original Mr. K's Barbecue, Tucson
Mr. K’s might not look like much from the outside, but inside at their dining tables is an eating experience that every barbecue lover deserves to know about. They have some of the moistest brisket meats that you’ll ever taste, and the sauce itself has the perfect amount of smokiness added to it for that classic flavor. In addition to that, you will always be able to count on reliable and friendly servers at Mr. K’s, which makes the whole dining experience that much more pleasant!
Joe's Real BBQ, Gilbert
The same family has been running Joe’s Real BBQ since 1998, and it’s no coincidence that they have been successful in the East Valley among other competing restaurants. The building itself was originally an old church, but these days it’s been transformed into one of Phoenix’s most beloved pit stops. Be sure to try some of their homemade cornbread and desserts!
Pork on a Fork, Phoenix
If you’re a fan of good old fashioned smoked meats, then Pork on a Fork should be your next on your BBQ bucket list. The two founders, Wes Hansen and Justin Erickson are originally from Nebraska where their family farm is the supplier of their meats. Erickson himself is a third-generation master of smoking meat, so you know you can trust anything out of his kitchen to be divine!
