Tucson, Arizona is a hidden gem for barbecue lovers. With its warm weather and vibrant culinary scene, this southwestern city offers a variety of delicious barbecue options that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a fan of smoky ribs, juicy brisket, or tender pulled pork, Tucson has something for everyone.
One of the best places to indulge in barbecue delights in Tucson is at Smokin’ Hot BBQ. This local favorite is known for its mouthwatering meats and flavorful sauces. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted with the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked goodness. Their tender ribs and smoky pulled pork are a must-try, and don’t forget to slather on their tangy homemade barbecue sauce.
If you’re looking for a unique barbecue experience, head over to The Pit Stop. This food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant offers a fusion of traditional barbecue with a southwestern twist. Their menu features dishes like pulled pork tacos topped with creamy chipotle slaw and tender brisket nachos smothered in queso fresco. It’s the perfect place to satisfy your cravings while experiencing Tucson’s vibrant food truck culture.
No barbecue tour of Tucson would be complete without a visit to BrushFire BBQ Co. This family-owned restaurant takes pride in serving up delicious, made-from-scratch barbecue. Their slow-cooked ribs are a crowd favorite, with a perfect balance of smokiness and tenderness. For a truly indulgent experience, try their “Big Stack” sandwich, filled with layers of pulled pork, smoked ham, and crispy bacon. It’s a carnivore’s dream!
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to add these barbecue hotspots to your foodie bucket list. Tucson may be known for its desert landscapes, but it’s also a destination for barbecue lovers. So grab a bib, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in some of the best barbecue delights that Tucson, Arizona has to offer.
Contents
Top BBQ Joints in Tucson
If you’re craving some mouthwatering barbecue in Tucson, you’re in luck! Check out these top BBQ joints in Tucson for some delicious and finger-licking treats.
1. BrushFire BBQ Co.
Located in the heart of Tucson, BrushFire BBQ Co. is a must-visit for barbecue lovers. They offer a variety of smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken. Their homemade barbecue sauces are the perfect accompaniment to their flavorful dishes.
2. Brother John’s Beer, Bourbon & BBQ
Brother John’s is a popular spot in Tucson for beer, bourbon, and of course, barbecue. They have a wide selection of barbecue dishes, such as smoked turkey, pork belly burnt ends, and beef ribs. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their craft beers or signature cocktails.
3. The Parish
If you’re looking for a unique twist on barbecue, The Parish is the place to go. They specialize in Southern-style barbecue with a Cajun and Creole influence. Try their smoked pork shoulder, hot link sausage, or smoked chicken thighs. Don’t miss out on their house-made sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread.
4. Sausage Shop Meat Market
Sausage Shop Meat Market is a hidden gem in Tucson for BBQ enthusiasts. They offer a variety of smoked sausages, including jalapeno cheddar, hot Polish, and bratwurst. Their sausages are made fresh daily and are packed with flavor. Don’t forget to grab some of their house-made sauces to accompany your meal.
5. Pinnacle Peak
Pinnacle Peak is a classic steakhouse in Tucson that also serves up some delicious barbecue. Their specialty is mesquite-grilled steaks, but they also offer mouthwatering barbecue dishes like baby back ribs, smoked chicken, and pulled pork. Enjoy your meal in a charming Old West setting.
These top BBQ joints in Tucson will satisfy your cravings for smoky, tender, and delicious barbecue. Whether you’re a fan of classic barbecue or looking for something unique, Tucson has a variety of options sure to please any barbecue lover.
Mouthwatering Texas-style BBQ
If you’re a fan of smoky, tender, and flavorful barbecue, then you can’t miss out on the mouthwatering offerings of Texas-style BBQ in Tucson, Arizona. Known for its delicious meats and traditional cooking techniques, Texas-style BBQ is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
One of the best places to indulge in this culinary delight is at The Barbecue Joint. With its rustic atmosphere and friendly staff, this local favorite is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts. Feast on their juicy brisket, which is slow-smoked to perfection and melts in your mouth. Don’t forget to try their delicious pork ribs, which are seasoned with a special dry rub and cooked until tender.
If you’re craving some authentic Texas-style sausage, head over to Franklin’s Smokehouse. This family-owned establishment takes pride in their handmade sausages, which are bursting with flavor and made from high-quality ingredients. Pair your sausage with some classic sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw for the perfect Texas BBQ experience.
Traditional Cooking Techniques
What sets Texas-style BBQ apart from other barbecue styles is its use of traditional cooking techniques. The meat is typically cooked low and slow over indirect heat, allowing the flavors to develop and creating that signature smoky taste. The use of wood for smoking, such as oak or mesquite, adds an extra depth of flavor.
At The Barbecue Joint, they take pride in their wood-smoked meats, which are cooked for hours until they reach the perfect tenderness. The pitmasters here are experts at controlling temperature and smoke levels to ensure the best results every time.
A Taste of Texas in Tucson
Whether you’re a Texas native or just a barbecue lover looking for something new, the mouthwatering Texas-style BBQ in Tucson, Arizona, is sure to impress. From juicy brisket to flavorful sausages, you’ll find all the classic dishes cooked to perfection. So grab your appetite and head to one of these barbecue joints for an unforgettable dining experience.
Authentic Kansas City BBQ in Tucson
If you’re craving the smoky, tangy flavors of authentic Kansas City BBQ in Tucson, you’re in luck. Despite being miles away from Missouri, there are a few spots in Tucson that serve up mouthwatering Kansas City-style barbecue that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Midwest.
1. The Barbecue Joint: Located in the heart of Tucson, The Barbecue Joint is a must-visit for any BBQ lover. Their slow-smoked meats are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. From their succulent burnt ends to their fall-off-the-bone ribs, every bite is a true taste of Kansas City.
2. Smokin’ Lizard: Smokin’ Lizard is another top-notch BBQ joint in Tucson that takes its inspiration from Kansas City. Their melt-in-your-mouth brisket, mouthwatering pulled pork, and tangy BBQ sauce will have you coming back for more. Be sure to try their famous smoked chicken wings for a truly unique twist on classic barbecue.
3. Famous Dave’s: While Famous Dave’s is a chain restaurant, it still manages to capture the essence of Kansas City BBQ. With a menu featuring all the classics, like ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this BBQ joint. Don’t forget to sample their award-winning sauces for an extra kick of flavor.
Whether you’re a Tucson local or just passing through, these spots will satisfy your cravings for authentic Kansas City BBQ. So grab a plate, dig in, and enjoy all the smoky, savory goodness that Tucson has to offer.
Must-Visit BBQ Food Trucks
When it comes to indulging in the best barbecue in Tucson, Arizona, don’t limit yourself to just restaurants. The city is also home to some amazing BBQ food trucks that offer mouthwatering delights on wheels. If you’re a fan of food truck culture and can’t resist the temptation of delicious barbecue, here are some must-visit BBQ food trucks in Tucson:
1. Smokin’ Hot BBQ
Smokin’ Hot BBQ is a popular food truck that specializes in slow-smoked, tender meats. Their menu features a range of traditional BBQ favorites, including pulled pork sandwiches, smoked brisket, and St. Louis-style ribs. The meat is cooked low and slow over a wood fire for that perfect smoky flavor. Don’t forget to try their homemade BBQ sauces for an extra burst of flavor.
2. The Saucy Pig BBQ
For a unique twist on BBQ, head to The Saucy Pig BBQ food truck. They offer a fusion of Southern and Mexican flavors, resulting in dishes like BBQ tacos and smoked carne asada. Their brisket is slow-cooked to perfection and served with a variety of homemade sauces that add an extra kick to every bite. Make sure to grab a side of their famous mac and cheese or cornbread for a complete BBQ experience.
These are just a few of the must-visit BBQ food trucks in Tucson. Keep in mind that food truck locations and schedules may vary, so be sure to check their websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information. Enjoy exploring Tucson’s vibrant food truck scene and satisfying your BBQ cravings on the go!
| Food Truck | Specialties |
|---|---|
| Smokin’ Hot BBQ | Pulled pork sandwiches, smoked brisket, St. Louis-style ribs |
| The Saucy Pig BBQ | BBQ tacos, smoked carne asada, brisket |
Vegetarian-friendly BBQ Options
If you’re a vegetarian or have vegetarian friends joining you for a barbecue outing in Tucson, Arizona, there are still plenty of delicious options to enjoy. While barbecue traditionally revolves around grilled meats, many places in Tucson have recognized the need for vegetarian-friendly options on their menus. Here are some of the best places to indulge in vegetarian-friendly BBQ delights:
1. Veg-In-A-Box: With its focus on plant-based barbecue, Veg-In-A-Box is a must-visit for vegetarians. They offer a wide range of BBQ-inspired dishes that are both delicious and cruelty-free. From “pulled pork” sandwiches made from jackfruit to vegan “ribs,” you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings.
2. The Tasteful Vegan: This popular vegan restaurant also offers excellent vegetarian-friendly BBQ options. Their BBQ cauliflower wings are a fan favorite, featuring crispy fried cauliflower tossed in tangy barbecue sauce. You can also try their BBQ tofu skewers for a protein-packed option.
3. Lovin’ Spoonfuls: While not exclusively a BBQ joint, Lovin’ Spoonfuls offers a mouthwatering BBQ tofu steak that will leave you craving more. This vegetarian and vegan restaurant is known for its creative and flavorful dishes, and their BBQ tofu is no exception.
4. Tumerico: Another gem for vegetarians in Tucson, Tumerico serves up unique and delicious vegetarian BBQ options. Their BBQ jackfruit tacos are a delight, with tender jackfruit cooked in a smoky BBQ sauce and topped with fresh veggies and tangy slaw.
5. Govinda’s Natural Foods Buffet: This vegetarian buffet spot offers a diverse selection of dishes, and their BBQ tofu and tempeh are worth trying. The tofu is marinated in a flavorful BBQ sauce, giving it a rich and smoky taste, while the tempeh offers a hearty alternative.
Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your barbecue experience, Tucson has a variety of vegetarian-friendly BBQ spots to satisfy your cravings. With these options, you can indulge in delicious barbecue flavors without sacrificing your dietary preferences.
BBQ Catering for Events and Parties
When it comes to hosting a successful event or party in Tucson, Arizona, featuring mouthwatering barbecue is a sure way to please your guests. Whether you are planning a corporate gathering, a wedding reception, a birthday party, or any other special occasion, BBQ catering can satisfy everyone’s appetite and leave them wanting more.
Why Choose BBQ Catering?
There are several reasons why BBQ catering is an excellent choice for your event or party:
- Taste: Barbecue dishes are known for their delicious smoky flavors and tender meats. From juicy ribs to succulent pulled pork, BBQ catering offers a range of delectable options that are sure to impress your guests.
- Variety: BBQ catering provides a wide variety of menu options to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether your guests prefer beef, chicken, pork, or vegetarian options, there is something for everyone.
- Easy Setup: When you opt for BBQ catering, the caterer takes care of all the setup and equipment. They bring their grills, utensils, and serving trays, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event.
- Flexibility: BBQ catering can be customized to match the theme or atmosphere of your event. Whether you want a casual backyard barbecue or a more formal sit-down dinner, the caterer can accommodate your preferences.
Choosing the Right BBQ Caterer
When selecting a BBQ caterer for your event or party, there are a few factors to consider:
- Experience: Look for a caterer with experience in BBQ catering. They should have a proven track record of delivering high-quality, delicious barbecue.
- Menu Options: Check the caterer’s menu to ensure they offer a variety of barbecue dishes that suit your preferences and dietary needs.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from friends or colleagues who have previously used BBQ catering services. This can help you gauge the caterer’s level of service and customer satisfaction.
- Cost: Discuss pricing and any additional fees with the caterer to ensure it fits within your budget.
By choosing the right BBQ caterer, you can ensure that your event or party will be a hit with delicious barbecue delights that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
