Arizona knows a thing or two about good barbecue, with some of its best spots serving smoky brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork.
But the real fun starts when you discover what makes each BBQ joint different, from giant smokers working overtime to unexpected Southern favorites and sides that might just steal the show.
Whether you’re craving a massive meat platter, a hearty sandwich, or something with a little extra kick, these eight Arizona BBQ spots are worth adding to your food bucket list.
Just make sure you show up hungry, because some of these places are so popular that the best meats sell out before dinner!
1. Little Miss BBQ-University, Phoenix
Little Miss BBQ-University, located at 4301 East University in Phoenix, brings Texas-inspired barbecue to the city with its custom-built smokers and bold, smoky flavors.
You can’t go wrong with the tender, peppery brisket, whether sliced or chopped, but save some room for the pulled pork, pork ribs, and house-made “707” sausages.
To round out your barbecue feast, order jalapeño cheddar grits, ranch-style beans, potato salad, or coleslaw, and don’t forget to try Bekke’s smoked pecan pie.
With so many delicious options on the menu, it’s no surprise this casual, counter-service spot draws long lunch lines, so arrive early before the most popular meats sell out.
2. Caldwell County BBQ, Gilbert
Another Arizona favorite is Caldwell County BBQ at 18324 East Nunneley Road in Gilbert, where Texas-style barbecue meets a cozy farmhouse setting, homemade smokers, and a backyard full of picnic tables.
The sliced prime brisket gets plenty of attention, but the juicy turkey breast, peppery St. Louis-style ribs, and mesquite-smoked sausage deserve a spot on your tray too.
You can also order poblano cotija sausage or beef ribs, along with tasty sides like mac and cheese, potato salad, pinto beans, and lemon poppyseed coleslaw.
If you still have room for dessert, choose between Aunt Diane’s Texas sheet cake topped with homemade frosting and chopped pecans or a serving of creamy banana pudding.
3. Eric’s Family Barbecue, Avondale
Over in Avondale, Eric’s Family Barbecue at 12345 West Indian School Road serves tender smoked meats in a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
The menu features 15-hour smoked brisket with a flavorful crust, plus pulled pork, juicy ribs, turkey, and pastrami that you can order by the pound or in sandwiches.
If you’re craving something different, try the green chile cheeseburger or bacon cheeseburger, then round out your meal with mac and cheese, potato salad, or coleslaw.
Come hungry, bring a few friends, and grab extra napkins because Eric’s serves the kind of hearty, messy barbecue that makes eating with your hands half the fun.
4. Satchmo’s, Flagstaff
Next, Satchmo’s at 2320 North Fourth Street brings a Louisiana twist to Arizona’s barbecue scene with slow-smoked meats and Cajun and Creole favorites.
Beyond the usual brisket and ribs, you can enjoy blackened shrimp, burnt ends, spicy jambalaya, hearty gumbo, and po’ boy sandwiches topped with Southwest slaw.
Make sure to try the homemade sides, especially the red beans and rice with andouille sausage, and don’t forget to treat yourself to Satchmo’s bread pudding for dessert.
All that delicious food is served in a fun, laid-back setting with funky, music-inspired decor, making it a great place to relax after exploring downtown Flagstaff.
5. Bobby D’s BBQ, Jerome
If you’re in Jerome, check out Bobby D’s BBQ at 119 Jerome Avenue, where smoky comfort food meets local history inside a restaurant building dating back to 1899.
The old wooden booths, vintage mirrors, and original bar stools will take you back in time while you enjoy pulled pork, baby back ribs, spicy chicken, and hearty sliders.
Pair your meat with poblano cheddar cornbread, tangy apple coleslaw, or BBQ beans with pork, and don’t overlook the fresh salads if you’re craving something lighter.
After lunch, drive over to Jerome State Historic Park or browse the quirky shops along Main Street, where the town’s mining past is everywhere!
6. Rim Country BBQ and Wood-Fired Pizza, Payson
For smoky barbecue and freshly baked pizza lovers, Rim Country BBQ and Wood-Fired Pizza at 202 West Main Street in Payson offers the best of both worlds.
Dig into sliced or chopped brisket, tender pulled pork, smoky ribs, and jalapeño cheddar sausage, or try the BBQ sampler plate for a little taste of everything.
You can also enjoy creative pies like the Mogollon Monster topped with smoked brisket, fennel sausage, and pepperoni, or the Kalua Pork with pulled pork and pineapple.
That combination makes this spot especially handy when your group can’t agree on what to eat, since everyone gets something delicious without making separate stops.
7. Kiss of Smoke BBQ, Tucson
Up next, Kiss of Smoke BBQ at 663 South Plumer Avenue in Tucson brings award-winning barbecue to a casual, no-frills setting where the food does all the talking.
This local favorite is especially known for its smoky brisket, tender pulled pork, and juicy sliced chicken, which you can pair with chipotle bacon slaw, mac and cheese, or fried okra.
Depending on the day you visit, you can also order daily specials like loaded nachos on Wednesdays and smoked potatoes stuffed with meat and cheese on Thursdays.
With limited seating and smoky meats that often sell out, arriving early is a good idea if you want to enjoy the best of what this place has to offer.
8. Doc’s BBQ & Whiskey Prescott, Prescott
Last but not least, Doc’s BBQ & Whiskey in Prescott serves slow-smoked meats, hearty barbecue favorites, and plenty of whiskey just steps from the famous Whiskey Row.
Located at 202 South Montezuma Street, you’ll find smoked brisket, juicy ribs, and pulled pork sandwiches, but the Six Shooter platter is worth trying if you’re hungry.
The menu also offers plenty of other tasty choices, from brisket burgers and jalapeño cream cheeseburgers to smoked wings, crispy fried pickles, and savory burnt ends.
After eating, stroll around historic Courthouse Plaza, where old saloons, local shops, and the city’s famous Western landmarks are all within easy walking distance.
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