Scottsdale's Best BBQ [Updated 2025]

After countless mouthwatering meals, I’ve embarked on a delicious journey through 12 top locations that serve up the smokiest, most flavorful BBQ in the area. Trust me, I’ve tasted everything from tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs, and my taste buds have never been happier!

You can count on my expertise because I’m not just a casual diner—I’m a BBQ enthusiast who believes that great food deserves to be celebrated. Whether you’re a local looking for your next favorite spot or a visitor eager to dive into Scottsdale’s culinary scene, I promise to steer you toward the very best bites that will have you licking your fingers and craving more. Let’s dig in!

Arizona BBQ Shack

Highlights
First Class customer service
Live music on Friday nights
Delicious Marjorie Catfish
Fantastic BBQ and sides
Full bar and outdoor seating

Arizona BBQ Shack: A Flavorful Experience in Scottsdale

Step into Arizona BBQ Shack and you're immediately welcomed by an atmosphere that feels like a warm hug from your favorite relative. The first-class customer service here sets the tone; the staff exudes friendliness and passion, which makes you feel right at home. As I perused the menu, I couldn't resist ordering their famous Marjorie Catfish, a dish that surpassed all my expectations with its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful meat.

Now, let’s talk about the BBQ; it’s nothing short of divine! Each bite of their smoked brisket sent my taste buds dancing. The sides were equally impressive—creamy coleslaw and velvety mac and cheese complemented the star of the show perfectly. If you're searching for a spot to unwind, the outdoor seating paired with a full bar offers the ideal setting for a leisurely meal.

To top it all off, Arizona BBQ Shack has live music on Friday nights, creating a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the whole experience. It’s not just about great food; it’s about a good time. Trust me, this place is a must-visit if you’re hunting for the best BBQ in Scottsdale!

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Caldwell County BBQ

Highlights
Cheerful and attentive service
Great house sauce
Delicious meat flavors
Generous sampling options
Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating

At Caldwell County BBQ, the moment I walked in, I was greeted by cheerful staff who radiated the warmth of true Southern hospitality. The ambiance struck a perfect balance between casual and inviting, offering comfortable indoor and outdoor seating that makes you want to linger a little longer with friends or family.

Now, let's talk about the culinary delight that is their BBQ! One bite of their expertly smoked meats and I was transported to flavor paradise. Each bite was packed with deliciousness, and the range of house sauces they offer perfectly complemented my choices. Speaking of choices, they have generous sampling options that allowed me to indulge my curiosity and test several meats in one go!

What I loved most was the bold combination of flavors that left my taste buds dancing. The house sauce had just the right amount of zing that brought the smoky goodness to life. If you’re in Scottsdale and have a hankering for some fantastic BBQ, Caldwell County BBQ is a must-visit. I left with a satisfied belly and a smile, already planning my next visit to this BBQ haven!

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Frasher's Smokehouse

Highlights
Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
Tender and flavorful BBQ
Top-notch service
Delicious Peach Daily cocktail
Great outdoor patio area

Frasher's Smokehouse in Scottsdale is an absolute delight! From the moment I stepped in, the cozy and welcoming atmosphere enveloped me like a warm embrace. The tantalizing aroma of smoky goodness filled the air, instantly piquing my appetite for some serious barbeque.

I dove into their signature brisket, which was unbelievably tender and bursting with flavor. Each bite melted in my mouth, proving that they know how to take good care of their meats. The attentive and top-notch service added to the overall experience, making me feel like a valued guest rather than just another customer.

While I indulged in my feast, I couldn't resist trying their delicious Peach Daily cocktail. This refreshing concoction paired perfectly with my meal, adding a sweet twist to the savory BBQ flavors. I also enjoyed dining outdoors on their expansive patio, where I could savor the Scottsdale sun along with my meal.

Overall, my visit to Frasher's Smokehouse was memorable, and I left with a full belly and a huge smile. For anyone searching for fantastic BBQ in Scottsdale, this spot is a must-visit! 🌟

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Handlebar J

Highlights
Fun country music atmosphere
Delicious, well-seasoned ribs
Welcoming and friendly staff
Spacious outdoor patio
Intimate dance floor experience

After stepping into Handlebar J, I was instantly enveloped by its inviting country music atmosphere. The lively tunes set the perfect stage for a night of delectable barbecue. I opted for the well-seasoned ribs, and let me tell you, they didn’t disappoint! Each piece was bursting with flavor, cooked to perfection with a smoky glaze that was absolutely irresistible.

The outdoor patio was spacious, providing a great setting to enjoy my meal under the stars. It was here that the experience truly shone—the friendly staff made me feel right at home, ensuring my drink was never empty and offering recommendations that didn’t steer me wrong.

I also had the chance to catch a glimpse of the intimate dance floor, which added a fun twist to my visit. Imagine indulging in mouthwatering BBQ while tapping your feet to live music!

In the vibrant world of Scottsdale BBQ, Handlebar J stands out as a true gem. If you're on the hunt for a fantastic culinary adventure, this place is a definite must-visit!

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Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse

Highlights
Quick seating and friendly staff
Tasty BBQ with sampler options
Cool decor and atmosphere
Professional handling of issues
Amazing French dip sandwich

Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse in Scottsdale is a delightful destination that makes your taste buds dance with joy. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with quick seating and a team of friendly staff members who made me feel right at home. The decor strikes a perfect balance between rustic and modern, creating a welcoming atmosphere that truly sets the stage for an enjoyable meal.

I decided to dive into the BBQ scene with a sampler platter, and let me tell you, it was a feast for the senses! Each smoky morsel was bursting with flavor, expertly cooked, and surprisingly tender. I couldn’t resist trying the amazing French dip sandwich—a must-have that left me craving more.

What really impressed me was how professionally the staff handled a small hiccup during my visit; they turned a minor issue into a showcase of excellent customer care. If you’re on the hunt for some of the best BBQ in Scottsdale, Bootleggers is not to be missed. With its delectable options and vibrant vibe, you’re bound to have a memorable dining experience!

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BOOTLEGGERS FOOD & DRINK

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Delicious pork belly tacos
Modern and clean atmosphere
Great burger options
Consistent weekly visits

BOOTLEGGERS FOOD & DRINK is an unexpected delight nestled in the heart of Scottsdale. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the modern and clean atmosphere—a refreshing change for a BBQ spot! The friendly and attentive staff made me feel welcomed right away, ensuring my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

I dove headfirst into their menu and was particularly intrigued by their pork belly tacos. Let me tell you, these little treasures were bursting with flavor! The fusion of tender pork belly with zesty toppings created a harmonious bite that had me coming back for more. And if you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, don’t overlook their great burger options—they offer a variety that caters to every palate.

I found myself consistently returning each week, not just for the mouthwatering BBQ but also for the vibrant ambiance that creates a sense of community among diners. Overall, BOOTLEGGERS is a must-visit destination for BBQ enthusiasts looking to indulge in a fun and satisfying culinary adventure right here in Scottsdale!

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Big Nate's Family BBQ

My visit to Big Nate's Family BBQ was a flavor-packed adventure that didn’t disappoint! The moment I stepped in, the smoky aroma tantalized my taste buds, promising a delightful meal. I tucked into their tender brisket, which was perfectly juicy and bursting with flavor; it had me dreaming of backyard picnics. The selection of sides, particularly the mac and cheese, was equally fantastic—rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying. The family-friendly atmosphere made it a great spot for gathering, and the friendly staff added a personal touch. If you’re in Scottsdale, don’t miss out on Big Nate’s—a true BBQ gem!

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NakedQ BBQ

At NakedQ BBQ, I truly found a haven for barbecue lovers! The moment I walked in, the tantalizing aroma of smoked meats was absolutely irresistible. I indulged in their fall-off-the-bone ribs, which were perfectly seasoned and had a delightful caramelized crust. Each bite was a flavor explosion! The house-made sauces were equally impressive, ranging from sweet to spicy, complementing the meats beautifully. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff made my visit even more enjoyable. If you're seeking an unforgettable BBQ experience in Scottsdale, look no further than NakedQ—it's a gem that shouldn't be missed!

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Boo and Henry's Memphis Pit BBQ Restaurant

From the moment I stepped into Boo and Henry's Memphis Pit BBQ, the aroma of smoky goodness enveloped me like an old friend. Their slow-smoked ribs are a revelation—falling-off-the-bone tender with a zesty house-made sauce that dances on your palate. The pulled pork was equally delightful, rich and flavorful, leaving me craving more after every bite. Highlights include the cozy, inviting ambiance and friendly staff who treat you like family. If you’re searching for BBQ that fuses tradition with a touch of flair, look no further. This gem definitely deserves its place among Scottsdale's best!

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Cryin' Coyote Barbecue

For a true taste of the Southwest, Cryin' Coyote Barbecue delivers with flair! From the moment I stepped in, the smoky aroma danced through the air, enticing my appetite. The pulled pork was nothing short of a revelation—tender, juicy, and infused with a rich, balanced sauce that had me licking my fingers. Their brisket, perfectly smoked and seasoned, melted in my mouth like a dream. The lively atmosphere was a delightful bonus, making it a perfect spot for BBQ lovers. If you’re hunting for unforgettable flavors in Scottsdale, don’t miss this hidden gem of barbecue paradise!

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Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope

When I visited Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope, I was immediately captivated by the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the air. The brisket was nothing short of divine—smoky with just the right amount of tenderness. Their house-made sauces perfectly complemented the meats without overwhelming them. I also indulged in a side of creamy mac and cheese that was a delightful surprise! The lively atmosphere and friendly staff made for a memorable experience. If you’re on the hunt for unforgettable BBQ in Scottsdale, this spot is a must-visit, marrying flavor with a fun vibe that keeps you coming back for more!

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Little Miss BBQ-University

Stepping into Little Miss BBQ-University felt like entering a smoke-filled paradise! The inviting aroma of slow-cooked meats made my mouth water instantly. I devoured their brisket, which was melt-in-your-mouth tender, paired perfectly with a side of tangy coleslaw. The homemade barbecue sauce offered a delightful sweetness that complemented the smoky flavor beautifully. Even the mac and cheese deserves a standing ovation! With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff, this spot is a must-visit for any BBQ lover. Little Miss BBQ-University has certainly earned its place in the heart of Scottsdale’s BBQ scene—delicious doesn’t even begin to cover it!

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