Arizona’s Desert BBQ Shack That Locals Swear Smokes Brisket Worth Every Mile
Pulling into the lot at 8901 N 7th St, Phoenix I can already smell the oak and mesquite drifting from Little Miss BBQ, and my stomach starts making executive decisions before my brain catches up.
This spot has built a reputation that stretches far beyond the Sunnyslope neighborhood, drawing locals and travelers who swear the brisket alone justifies the drive across town.
The building sits tucked in a retail strip with ample parking, a covered patio shaded by ceiling fans, and a line that forms before the doors open at eleven.
I have returned more times than I care to admit.
The crew behind the counter greets you with samples of brisket while you decide, the meat glistens under the heat lamps, and the sides arrive in portions that could double as dinner.
Every plate feels like a small celebration of smoke, spice, and the kind of care that turns a simple meal into a story worth repeating.
By the time I leave, I am already scheming my next excuse to swing by North 7th Street.
The Roadside Shack Atmosphere That Feels Like Home
Before I even reach the door at Little Miss BBQ, there’s a sort of quiet excitement that hangs in the air – people milling around, chatting in line, the morning sun casting long shadows across the parking lot.
I love how this place feels like a neighborhood landmark in Phoenix’s Sunnyslope area, tucked into the corner of a familiar strip with big skies overhead.
The building’s simple exterior and casual seating draw a mix of locals and out‑of‑towners, and you can feel the buzz of anticipation as folks wait for the doors to open.
Inside, the vibe is laid‑back and social; strangers strike up conversations while waiting, shaded fans hum softly on the patio, and the staff greet regulars by name.
On warm days, the outdoor area with its ceiling fans feels like a makeshift community porch, a place where people linger long after they’ve sat down.
I always notice how effortless and friendly the service feels, with a sense that everyone here genuinely enjoys being part of this spot’s daily rhythm.
Each visit feels like dropping into a beloved local ritual – familiar faces, the hum of casual chatter, and that easygoing Arizona sunshine lighting up the space around me.
The Brisket That Anchors Every Conversation
Sliced brisket at Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope commands the menu like a headliner at a sold-out show, and for good reason.
The moment the knife glides through that dark bark and exposes the pink smoke ring, you know you are in for something special.
Each slice arrives tender enough to pull apart with a fork, yet firm enough to hold its shape on the tray.
Reviewers mention the staff asking how fatty you prefer your cut, a detail that shows the kitchen understands brisket is personal.
I have watched the carver work with the precision of a surgeon, trimming just enough fat to balance richness with texture.
The meat carries a deep smokiness that lingers on your palate without overwhelming the natural beef flavor.
One bite and I understood why people drive from Surprise, Scottsdale, and beyond.
The brisket does not need sauce to shine, though the three varieties on every table offer a fun playground for experimentation.
This is the dish that turns first-timers into regulars and regulars into evangelists who text photos to friends at midnight.
Jalapeno Cheese Grits That Deserve Their Own Fan Club
Walking up to order, I watched a staff member offer samples of the jalapeno cheese grits to a hesitant customer, and within seconds that hesitation melted into a wide smile.
These grits have earned a cult following, mentioned in dozens of reviews as a must-try side that rivals the meats.
Creamy, rich, and studded with just enough jalapeno to add a gentle kick, they arrive hot and ready to steal the spotlight.
The texture walks a fine line between silky and substantial, clinging to your spoon without turning gluey.
I have ordered them on every visit, and each time they taste like comfort food elevated by someone who respects Southern tradition but is not afraid to tweak it.
The cheese melts into every bite, creating a savory base that complements smoky brisket or spicy sausage.
The Patio That Turns Lunch Into an Event
Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope boasts a covered patio that reviewers describe as spacious, well-shaded, and equipped with ceiling fans that keep the Arizona heat at bay.
I have claimed a table out there on multiple occasions, watching pigeons patrol the ground for stray crumbs while families settle in with trays piled high.
The mister heads installed overhead hint at summer relief, and the open-air setup makes the whole experience feel relaxed rather than rushed.
Unlike the original University location with its cramped interior, Sunnyslope offers room to breathe and linger.
The patio furniture is clean and sturdy, the space is well-maintained, and the vibe strikes a balance between casual and intentional.
I appreciate that the staff keeps the area tidy, clearing plates and checking in without hovering.
Eating smoked meat outdoors under a shaded canopy feels right, especially when the weather cooperates and the aroma of oak drifts across the tables.
Banana Pudding That Silences the Skeptics
I will confess I did not expect much from barbecue joint dessert, but Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope proved me wrong with their banana pudding.
Multiple reviews call it the best they have ever tasted, and one Southern transplant admitted it rivaled their grandmother’s recipe.
That kind of praise does not come lightly, especially from folks who grew up with the real thing.
The pudding arrives in a cup layered with vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, and a creamy custard that tastes homemade rather than scooped from a tub.
It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and rich, offering a cool, smooth finish after a plate of smoky, savory meats.
I have watched diners scrape their cups clean, chasing every last bit of pudding with their spoons.
Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage That Packs a Punch
The jalapeño cheddar sausage at Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope delivers a smoky, spicy kick that lingers long after the last bite.
Reviewers single it out as a standout, praising its flavor and the way the cheese melts into the meat without turning greasy.
I ordered it on a whim during my second visit, and it immediately earned a permanent spot on my tray.
The casing snaps when you bite down, releasing a burst of juice and spice that wakes up your taste buds.
The jalapeño heat builds gradually, never overwhelming the savory pork and beef blend, while the cheddar adds a creamy richness that balances the fire.
I appreciate that the sausage holds its own next to the brisket and ribs, offering a different texture and flavor profile without feeling like an afterthought.
One reviewer called it delicious, and I would go further and say it is essential.
If you are building a mixed meat plate, this sausage deserves a spot, especially if you enjoy a little heat with your smoke.
Smoked Pecan Pie That Redefines Dessert
Smoked pecan pie might sound like an odd choice, but at Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope it transforms into something extraordinary.
The smoky flavor infuses every bite, adding depth to the sweet, nutty filling without overpowering the classic pecan pie taste.
I have recommended it to skeptical friends, and every single one has thanked me after trying a slice.
The crust arrives flaky and golden, holding together just enough to support the gooey center packed with toasted pecans.
The smoke adds a subtle complexity that makes the pie feel like more than a dessert, almost like an extension of the barbecue experience itself.
I have ordered the pecan pie to go on several occasions, bringing it home to share and then regretting that decision halfway through the drive.
It pairs beautifully with the banana pudding if you want to sample both, though choosing between them remains one of the toughest calls on the menu.
The Family Pack That Feeds a Crowd
Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope offers a family pack that reviewers describe as more than enough food for four hungry adults, with some claiming it could stretch to five.
I ordered it once for a gathering, and the sheer volume of meat, sides, and extras left everyone impressed.
The pack includes a selection of meats, generous sides, pickles, and bread, all packed in a way that makes serving easy.
The sides came in large containers, and the pickles earned their own shoutout for being perfectly crunchy and not too vinegary.
I appreciated that the pack allowed everyone to sample multiple meats without committing to a single choice.
The value felt solid, especially considering the quality and the fact that leftovers actually tasted great the next day.
If you are feeding a group or just want to try everything, the family pack delivers without forcing you to order a la carte and do math at the counter.
Sunday Candied Pork Belly That Vanishes Fast
If you visit Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope on a Sunday, do not miss the candied pork belly.
Reviewers call it top-tier tasty, and I have seen it sell out before the afternoon rush.
The pork belly arrives glazed with a sweet, sticky coating that caramelizes under the smoke, creating a crust that crackles when you bite down.
Underneath, the meat melts on your tongue, rich and buttery with just enough fat to make it decadent.
I ordered it once on a whim, and it immediately became my Sunday ritual.
The sweetness balances the savory smoke, and the texture offers a delightful contrast to the leaner brisket or turkey.
The candied pork belly feels like a special treat, something the kitchen reserves for the weekend to give regulars a reason to return.
I have watched other diners order it by the pound, and I understand the impulse completely.
The Staff That Makes You Feel Like a Regular
From the moment you walk through the door at Little Miss BBQ-Sunnyslope, the staff treats you like you belong.
People consistently praise the friendly, attentive service, noting that the crew offers samples, answers questions, and helps first-timers navigate the menu without making them feel rushed.
I have watched cashiers handle grumpy customers with grace and humor, de-escalating tension while keeping the line moving.
The team clears plates from patio tables, checks in to make sure everything tastes right, and even hands out free pecan pies to travelers heading out of town.
The bilingual staff makes Spanish-speaking families feel at ease, a thoughtful touch that broadens the restaurant’s appeal.
I appreciate that the service feels genuine rather than scripted, as if the crew actually cares about your experience.
That kind of hospitality turns a good meal into a memorable one, and it keeps me coming back.