The Mesa BBQ Bucket List!

We’re not just blowing smoke, Mesa BBQ is the real deal!

When you think of must-try BBQ destinations, Mesa, Arizona probably is not the first to come to mind. However, Mesa has a unique take on melt-in-your-mouth brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs. So, grab a napkin, pull up a chair, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the world of BBQ in Mesa, Arizona.

Bobby-Q

1610 S Stapley Dr, Mesa

What do you get when you combine scratch-made rubs, a unique combination of almond and mesquite wood, and 22 hours of extreme patience? The mouth-watering creations from Bobby-Q.

Featuring slow smoked St. Louis and Texas-style ribs, Bobby-Q is sure to offer barbecue fare unlike any other. The starters will whet your appetite and the desserts will satiate your sweet-tooth cravings, but the barbecue is the show-stopper. Fool-proof menu items at Bobby-Q’s include the 18-hour smoked pulled pork sandwich and the winning combination of Smoked Baby Back Ribs and the tender 10oz Prime Rib.

A surprising addition to this BBQ menu is the elaborate hand-crafted cocktails served in whacky glasses! Enhance your dining experience with the fruity and Insta-worthy Pricilla’s Dream cocktail, served in a smoking pig glass or feel like you are sitting on the beach while drinking the Pineapple Passion out of a real pineapple!

Allison's Texas BBQ

6750 E Main St, Mesa

Straight from the Lone Star State, this family-owned authentic Texas style BBQ is sure to have you asking for seconds, so you can lick your fingers twice.

You can’t go wrong with any of their family recipes, but there are two true stars of the show at Allison’s. You must try The Bryan – a half-pound sandwich topped with slow-smoked sliced brisket and tender pulled pork, with a couple juicy hot links to boot. Top off this meal with the fresh homestyle sides like Nanny’s Corn Souffle and the King Ranch Beans. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert – finishing your meal with their Texas Sheet Cake, which will have you happier than a pig in mud!

Joe’s Real BBQ

301 N Gilbert Rd, Gilbert

For some lip-smacking delicious southern comfort food with a great outdoor dining area, Joe's Real BBQ is the place to be. Not only is their BBQ delicious, but it's full of passion -- smoking meats for hours using only Arizona pecan wood. Bring your group and enjoy a down-home feast indoors, on the climate-controlled patio, or outdoors in the festive picnic area.

Some must-tries are the chopped brisket, the BBQ pit beans and warm cornbread. Finish your meal with the gooey and moist Lemon Cake or the secret recipe Root Beer Floats.

Jalapeño Bucks

3434 N Val Vista Dr, Mesa

Jalapeño Bucks is a lot of things, but it is most definitely NOT Texas, Kansas City, or Memphis BBQ. Jalapeño Bucks is the one and only Arizona-Style barbeque joint. When ordering, you are bound to have a “buckin' good” meal. Enjoy an open-air dining experience as unique as the menu. Their outdoor seating includes picnic tables nestled between acres of citrus trees - some of the oldest in Arizona!

The menu showcases an eclectic mix of barbeque as well as Mexican-inspired dishes. Some signature bites include the Green Chili Shredded Beef Burrito along with the Sweet Green Salsa. One featured menu favorite is the leading lady: the PB&J Brisket Sandwich – smoked brisket on a toasted bun with warm and gooey peanut butter & jelly. The unique sweet and savory combo is one to have your tastebuds dancing for hours.

All in all, Mesa, Arizona, offers a delightful BBQ scene with a range of options to satisfy any BBQ lover's cravings. Whether it's the classic Texas-style brisket, tender pulled pork, or mouth-watering ribs, the city's BBQ joints have it all. From Bobby-Q's old-school charm to Allison's Texas BBQ's authentic Texan flavors, Joe's Real BBQ's traditional smoked meats, and Jalapeno Bucks' unique fusion cuisine, each restaurant offers a unique dining experience. So, if you're ever in Mesa, be sure to check out one (or all) of these fantastic BBQ joints for a finger-licking good time.