I Hit The Backroads Of Arizona To Try 9 Small-Town Smokehouses (And 5 Were Worth Every Scenic Mile)
Arizona isn’t just about desert landscapes and Grand Canyon views—it’s home to some seriously smoky treasures hiding in small towns across the state.
I packed up my truck and set out on a mission to taste-test ten different smokehouses tucked away in communities you might drive right past.
From tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs, I discovered that five of these spots absolutely nailed the barbecue game and made every winding mile worth it.
1. Snowflake Smokehouse Bar & Grill – Snowflake, AZ
Snowflake isn’t just a quirky name—it’s a genuine slice of old Arizona where this smokehouse serves up some genuinely memorable meat.
Located at 680 Main St, Snowflake, AZ 85937, this place greets you with the smell of hickory smoke before you even park your car.
Their pulled pork practically melts on your tongue, seasoned with a rub that balances sweet and savory without overpowering the natural flavors.
Locals swear by their homemade coleslaw, which adds the perfect crunch alongside the tender meats.
2. Salinas’s Smoke Street – Globe, AZ
Globe might be known for its copper mining history, but Salinas’s Smoke Street is crafting its own legendary reputation one rack of ribs at a time.
You’ll find this gem at 999 N Broad St, Globe, AZ 85501, where the pitmaster takes serious pride in slow-smoking everything for hours until it reaches perfection.
Their beef ribs are massive, meaty masterpieces that require both hands and zero shame.
The tangy house sauce complements without drowning the smoky goodness underneath.
3. Caldwell County BBQ – Gilbert, AZ
Texas traditions meet Arizona hospitality at this Gilbert outpost that’s bringing Central Texas-style barbecue to the desert.
Situated at 18324 E Nunneley Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, Caldwell County BBQ doesn’t mess around with their commitment to authentic smoking techniques.
Their brisket features that coveted pink smoke ring and bark that crunches before giving way to buttery, melt-in-your-mouth beef.
Even their turkey comes out juicy and flavorful, proving they’ve mastered the trickiest of smoked meats.
4. Little Miss BBQ – Sunnyslope (Phoenix, AZ)
Some places earn cult followings through marketing, but Little Miss BBQ in Sunnyslope earned theirs through pure, unadulterated deliciousness.
At 8901 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020, people line up early because they know the meat sells out fast—and for good reason.
Their fatty brisket is the stuff of barbecue dreams, with fat rendered to silky perfection throughout each slice.
The burnt ends taste like savory candy, and their house-made pickles provide the perfect acidic counterpoint.
5. Little Miss BBQ – University (Phoenix, AZ)
Proof that lightning can strike twice, this second Little Miss location brings the same exceptional quality to a different Phoenix neighborhood.
You’ll discover it at 4301 E University Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85034, where the same dedication to craft shows in every plate.
Their pork ribs feature a gorgeous mahogany color and pull away from the bone with just the gentlest tug.
The sides here shine too, especially their creamy mac and cheese that provides comfort alongside all that smoky protein.
6. Kiss of Smoke BBQ – Tucson, AZ
Tucson’s barbecue scene gets a flavorful boost from this spot that lives up to its romantic name with every tender bite.
Located at 663 S Plumer Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719, Kiss of Smoke BBQ embraces mesquite smoking traditions that add distinct Southwestern character to their meats.
Their smoked chicken arrives juicy under a perfectly crispy skin that’s been kissed by smoke for hours.
The cornbread here deserves special mention—sweet, moist, and substantial enough to soak up all those delicious meat juices.
7. Smokin’ Barrel BBQ – Show Low, AZ
Up in the White Mountains, this smokehouse proves that great barbecue isn’t limited to desert elevations.
Find them at 145 S White Mountain Rd, Show Low, AZ 85901, where cooler temperatures don’t stop the pitmasters from maintaining perfect smoking conditions year-round.
Their tri-tip comes out with a peppery crust that gives way to rosy, tender beef inside.
The beans here are loaded with bits of brisket, making them hearty enough to be a meal on their own.
8. Copper Town BBQ – Clifton, AZ
Way off the beaten path in historic Clifton, this smokehouse serves miners, travelers, and barbecue pilgrims with equal enthusiasm.
You’ll need to navigate to 900 W Roosevelt Ave, Clifton, AZ 85533, but the journey rewards you with honest, hardworking barbecue.
Their sausages snap with each bite, stuffed with perfectly seasoned pork and just enough spice to keep things interesting.
The potato salad brings creamy comfort, and the portions are generous enough to fuel a day of Arizona exploring.
9. Hogan’s Smoke House – Patagonia, AZ
Near the Mexican border, Patagonia hosts this delightful smokehouse that blends American barbecue traditions with subtle Southwestern influences.
At 100 Sullivan St, Patagonia, AZ 85624, Hogan’s Smoke House creates a welcoming atmosphere where the food does all the talking.
Their smoked pork shoulder arrives gloriously tender, with crispy bark edges that provide textural contrast.
The green chile adds a regional twist without overwhelming the careful smoking work underneath, and the friendly service makes you feel like a regular immediately.