Arizona is not traditionally known as a barbecue state but we still have quite a few restaurants that specialize in serving that delectable meal. Here’s a look at some of the top barbecue restaurants in Arizona.
1. Bigfoot BBQ, Flagstaff
You might have a difficult time finding this place during your first visit because it's located in the basement level of the Old Town Shops. However, the extra few minutes it takes to find the restaurant are worth it and they serve a wide variety of options for BBQ lovers and their strange companions who don’t eat BBQ. The restaurant is located at 120 North Leroux Street in the Old Town Shops in Flagstaff.
2. Big John’s Texas BBQ, Page
After you finish boating on Lake Powell, you'll want to indulge in some Texas-style ribs and pulled pork to satisfy your appetite. The restaurant is located at 153 South Lake Powell Boulevard and they have a food truck that regularly makes the rounds in northern Arizona and regional festivals.
3. Bobby Q, Phoenix
One of the more popular barbeque locations in the Valley, this restaurant along the I-17 has some amazing St. Louis style ribs, in addition to plenty of other barbeque (and non-barbeque) options. The restaurant is located at 8501 North 27th Avenue in Phoenix.
4. BrushFire BBQ Co., Tucson
A constant award-winner, BrushFire’s meats have the right blend of tender, juicy, and smokey that will have you wanting to eat here all day. You also have the option to select your own sauce on top, which ranges from sweet to spicy. The restaurant is located at 2745 North Campbell Avenue in Tucson.
5. Bryan’s Black Mountain Barbecue, Cave Creek
Get some classic, tender, juicy brisket and ribs at this Cave Creek restaurant. Plus, if you happen to be dining with any vegetarians, they can still enjoy the flavors with meals like "pulled" squash and their famous summer tomato sandwich. The restaurant is located at 6130 East Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek.
6. Joe’s Real BBQ, Gilbert
If you’re craving some drool-worthy, Texas-style ribs in the East Valley, be sure to check out this restaurant in Gilbert. Plus. I hear you can get a free birthday meal here! The restaurant is located at 301 North Gilbert Road.
7. Little Miss BBQ, Phoenix
Short of traveling to Texas, if you have never tried Texas-style BBQ you'll definitely want to check out this restaurant, which is located at 4301 East University Drive. One bite of their fatty brisket will definitely be worth the drive and wait.
8. Mr. K’s BBQ, Tucson
You'll find some tasty ribs and brisket at this modest restaurant, which sits at 6302 South Park Avenue in Tucson. Don’t forget to try their sides with a glass of Kool Aid.
9. Redneck’s Southern Pit BBQ, Kingman
Tender, succulent barbecued meats are the go-to item at this Kingman restaurant. They also serve up some delicious sides and appetizers, so be prepared to arrive with an empty stomach. They're located at 420 Beale Street in Kingman.
10. Satchmo’s, Flagstaff
This modest-looking restaurant has some big flavors waiting for your tastebuds inside. Focusing on New Orleans-style barbeque, Satchmo’s serves up some tasty barbeque, po’ boys, and blackened catfish. The restaurant is located at 2320 North 4th Street in Flagstaff.
11. Town Talk II Barbeque, Phoenix
Please note, Town Talk II Barbeque has permanently closed.
For a taste of Creole-style BBQ, check out this little restaurant located at 3509 North 19th Avenue. In addition to top dishes like spareribs and their pulled pork sandwiches (so good), be sure to also try out their Creole fries and cobblers.
Have you visited any of these restaurants? What is your favorite BBQ style? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
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