The Absolute Best BBQ in Scottsdale [Updated 2024]

I am a Scottsdale native and an experienced writer who has dedicated countless hours to exploring the culinary delights of this vibrant city. With a love for all things barbecue, I embarked on a quest to discover the hidden gems that make Scottsdale's BBQ scene truly exceptional.

After meticulously examining and savoring the flavors of thirteen different establishments, I am excited to share with you my findings. In this comprehensive guide, you will find the top contenders that have mastered the art of smoked meats, tantalizing sauces, and mouthwatering sides.

Get ready to embark on a smoky journey through Scottsdale's best BBQ spots!

Starlite BBQ

Highlights
Beef Ribs
Top notice service
Excellent smoked BBQ
Jalapeño cheesy grits
Quaint restaurant and bar

Let me start by saying that if you're a fan of beef ribs, you've come to the right place! Starlite BBQ is a hidden gem in Scottsdale when it comes to BBQ joints.

Upon entering the restaurant, I was greeted with top-notch service that made me feel right at home. The staff was attentive, friendly, and showed a genuine passion for their craft. My order was taken promptly, making sure I didn't have to wait too long to get my hands on their famous BBQ.

And oh boy, the BBQ did not disappoint! The meat was tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The excellent smoking process truly added a unique touch to their dishes, making every bite a heavenly experience. The beef ribs were nothing short of a carnivorous delight, and I couldn't help but savor each succulent mouthful.

But it's not just the meats that stand out at Starlite BBQ. One dish that completely stole the show for me was the jalapeño cheesy grits. The combination of spice from the jalapeños with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the grits was a match made in BBQ heaven.

What adds to the charm of Starlite BBQ is its quaint atmosphere. The restaurant and bar have a cozy, inviting feel that makes it the perfect place to enjoy a satisfying BBQ meal. It's the kind of place where you can kick back, relax, and have a great time with friends and family.

In conclusion, Starlite BBQ is a must-visit for any BBQ enthusiast in Scottsdale. With their mouthwatering beef ribs, attentive service, and delightful sides like the jalapeño cheesy grits, this place truly deserves to be on the list of the best BBQ spots in town.

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Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse

Highlights
Delicious Brisket
Friendly Staff
Amazing Coleslaw
Over the top AMAZING
Homemade Moonshine

Let me start off by saying, wow, just wow! Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse is an absolute gem when it comes to finding the best BBQ in Scottsdale. From the moment I stepped foot inside, I was greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of smoky goodness.

Now, let's dive into the highlights, shall we? First up, the delicious brisket. Oh my taste buds, this was something special. The meat was tender, juicy, and expertly smoked to perfection. Each bite was a flavor explosion that left me craving for more.

But it's not just about the meat, the folks at Bootleggers know how to create the perfect side dish too. The amazing coleslaw deserves a special mention. It was crunchy, tangy, and complemented the smoky flavors of the BBQ perfectly.

And speaking of perfection, the customer service at Bootleggers is over the top AMAZING. The staff was friendly, attentive, and went above and beyond to make sure my dining experience was top-notch. They made me feel like a valued guest, which is always a plus in my book.

Lastly, let's not forget about the homemade moonshine. This is a unique feature that sets Bootleggers apart from other BBQ joints. The moonshine selection was diverse and expertly crafted, adding an extra touch of excitement to my visit.

In conclusion, Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse has truly impressed me with their delectable brisket, friendly staff, amazing coleslaw, and the icing on the cake, their homemade moonshine. If you're in the mood for some top-notch BBQ in Scottsdale, this is the place to go. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Arizona BBQ Shack

Highlights
Great food
Family owned
Excellent service
Amazing smoked meats
Talented owners

From the moment I walked in, I could tell that this place was special. As a fan of family-owned businesses, I was thrilled to learn that the Arizona BBQ Shack is just that. The owners, John and Sarah, have poured their heart and soul into creating a BBQ haven that provides an experience like no other.

The excellent service was evident from the start. The friendly staff greeted me warmly and guided me through the mouthwatering menu. I decided to go with the brisket, and boy, was I in for a treat! The meat was amazingly tender and had a beautiful smoky flavor that made my taste buds dance with delight.

Speaking of smoky flavor, let's dive into their amazing smoked meats. From their succulent ribs to their juicy pulled pork, every bite was a testament to the talent and expertise of the owners. Each meat was carefully smoked to perfection, and the result was a heavenly symphony of flavors.

It's worth mentioning that the food at Arizona BBQ Shack is simply outstanding. The combination of authentic recipes and high-quality ingredients creates a culinary experience that is hard to top. I couldn't get enough of their perfectly seasoned, melt-in-your-mouth meat.

In conclusion, my visit to Arizona BBQ Shack was an absolute delight. From the great food to the talented owners who clearly have a passion for their craft, every aspect of this place exceeded my expectations. If you're in Scottsdale and looking for the best BBQ experience, look no further than Arizona BBQ Shack.

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NakedQ BBQ

NakedQ BBQ in Scottsdale is an absolute gem! The finger-licking goodness and scrumptious flavors of their smoked meats left me in awe. The tender, juicy brisket was a standout, and the bold, zesty BBQ sauce added the perfect kick. A must-try for any BBQ lover in Scottsdale!

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The Thumb

The Thumb in Scottsdale has a unique charm and offers finger-lickin' good bbq. The smoked meats are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is fun, with a quirky thumb-shaped building and outdoor seating. Don't forget to try their delectable hand pies. It's a must-visit for bbq enthusiasts in Scottsdale.

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Sizzle Korean Barbecue

I must say, the moment I stepped into Sizzle Korean Barbecue, I knew I was in for a sizzling treat. The enticing aroma of grilled meat filled the air, while the vibrant and modern decor added an extra dash of flair to the dining experience. The highlight? DIY grilling at your table! I relished grilling my own beef and pork cuts, creating a customized meal that was both fun and delicious. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring that I had a smokin' good time. Sizzle Korean Barbecue is a sensational spot that definitely earns its place in the list of the best bbq joints in Scottsdale.

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Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q

I must say, Rudy's truly delivered a delightful bbq experience. The mouthwatering aroma instantly transported me to a bbq wonderland. The tender, perfectly smoked meats danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving for more. The rustic ambiance and friendly staff made it an even more enjoyable experience. Rudy's is a must-visit for any bbq enthusiast in Scottsdale!

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Dickey's Barbecue Pit

Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Scottsdale definitely knows how to get smokin'! The mouthwatering aromas hit you before you even step inside. Their tender and juicy brisket was perfectly seasoned and the homemade sides were a delicious accompaniment. Don't forget to slather on their finger-licking good sauces. This place is a pitmaster's paradise!

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Ono Hawaiian BBQ

Ono Hawaiian BBQ in Scottsdale is a delightful tropical escape for your taste buds. The bold flavors and irresistible aromas take you on a vacation to the islands. From their succulent Kalbi short ribs to their juicy Teriyaki chicken, each bite is a mouthwatering adventure. Huli-Huli chicken is a must-try! Aloha!

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Blazin' Mongolian BBQ Scottsdale

Blazin' Mongolian BBQ Scottsdale in Scottsdale is a hidden gem that sets a blaze in your taste buds! Their sizzling Mongolian BBQ offerings are a delightful oomph to your palate. From juicy meats to a mountain of fresh veggies, there's no stopping your flavorsome journey. Prepare for the fiery feast at this fiery joint!

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Handlebar J

Handlebar J in Scottsdale has got to be one of my favorite bbq spots in town! The smoky, tender ribs melted in my mouth and the homemade sauce was the perfect blend of tangy and sweet. The western-themed atmosphere added a fun touch to the dining experience. Yeehaw!

Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que

Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que in Scottsdale is a smoky haven for barbecue lovers. From succulent ribs to juicy pulled pork, every bite is bursting with flavor. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a finger-licking good time. Don't forget to try their delectable sides, like the creamy mac and cheese. It's no wonder Lucille's is a top contender for the best BBQ in Scottsdale!

Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q

Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q in Scottsdale is a blast for bbq lovers, and boy, do they know how to bring the flavor! Juicy ribs, tender brisket, and a secret sauce that will make you swoon. Don't miss this smokin' hot spot on your quest for the best bbq in Scottsdale!