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The Best Barbecue in Tucson

Guide

The Best Barbecue in Tucson

by Max WingertOct 3, 2023Updated Aug 4, 20263 min read
Welcome to the our picks for the best barbecue spots in the heart of the Sonoran Desert! Tucson may not have a distinctive barbecue style like those in several southern, midwest, or Texas cities, but we've got plenty of talented transplants and home-grown chefs who give grilling a local spin -- not to mention abundant desert-hardy mesquite trees that provide wood for them to practice their techniques. From slow-cooked ribs that fall off the bone to tangy pulled pork sandwiches and everything in between, journey with us as we explore the sizzling best of Tucson's barbecue joints.
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8 spots

Dining room & bar at Bashful Bandit Barbecue (Photo by Hannah Hernandez)

Bashful Bandit Barbecue

3686 East Speedway BoulevardMidtown

Best New Restaurant

“Eating at the Bashful Bandit is like a best friend’s barbecue. That’s how the owners want guests to feel when they eat here. Inside the dining room or outside on the patio, diners can enjoy sliced or chopped prime brisket, green chili pulled pork, or smoked chicken, to name a few. Sides include mac and cheese, borracho beans, or dill potato salad. There’s more, but you get the idea. Get dinner by the pound, the plate, or as a sandwich. There’s a kid’s portion, too.”

Ribs At Bubb's Grub (Photo Credit: Bubb's Grub)

Bubb’s Grub

16010 Arizona 77Catalina

With a passion for all things comfort food, Bubb’s Grub offers a menu that blends classic favorites with a creative twist. From mouthwatering burgers loaded with gourmet toppings to indulgent mac ‘n’ cheese bowls that redefine comfort, every dish is crafted with love and attention to detail.

(Photo courtesy of Fork & Fire Smokehouse + Taproom)

Fork & Fire Smokehouse + Taproom

11835 North Oracle Road #101Oro Valley

Fork 'N Fire is a sizzling hotspot that ignites the senses with its delectable wood-fired creations. This joint offers a diverse menu featuring pulled pork, sliced brisket, artisanal pizzas, flame-kissed burgers, and flavorful dishes that showcase the essence of wood-fired cooking.

Photo Courtesy of Holy Smokin Butts BBQ

Holy Smokin' Butts BBQ

6940 East Broadway BoulevardEastside

This laid-back joint is a favorite on the east side of town, thanks to their tender Texas-style smoked meats and Carolina barbecue sauce that ranges from sweet to extra spicy. A great introduction to their offerings is the Ol' School Platter, including brisket, pulled pork, tri-tip and sides such as smoked baked beans, coleslaw, and mac 'n' cheese. On Friday and Saturday Steak Nights, you can savor barbecued rib-eye.

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Photo Courtesy of Kiss of Smoke BBQ

Kiss of Smoke BBQ

663 South Plumer AvenueMidtown

Kiss of Smoke BBQ & Catering began with an award-winning barbecue team who now have a low-key brick-and-mortar store while also bringing high-quality food to Tucson events, from weddings to luncheons. The brisket and pulled pork are particular crowd pleasers. And talk about cross-cultural: Along with such specials as nachos that come with your choice of barbecued meat, you can also get a breakfast bagel and a fatty -- bacon-wrapped sausage that is stuffed and smoked.

Ray Kendrick at Mr. K’s Original BBQ (Photo by Brielle Farmer)

Mr. K's Original BBQ

6302 South Park AvenueSouth Side

This South Park Avenue spot is a long-time Tucson BBQ staple -- owner Ray Kendrick has been delighting patrons with his no-frills approach to barbecue since 1997. Popular items on the small menu include beef ribs, along with the more typical pork. Our favorites include the hot links and brisket, but go for the Three Meat Combo and you can decide for yourself.

BBQ Plate from Smokey Mo (Photo credit: Dana Sullivan)

Smokey Mo

2650 North 1st AvenueMidtown

This no-frills spot on 1st Avenue produces some of the best barbecue in town. Takeaway is a good choice when it's too hot to sit out on the back patio or in the small dining area near the kitchen, but if you want to keep inhaling those great meat aromas, you might want to stick around. The friendly chef/owner, who describes his barbecue as Kansas City style, is almost always on site to greet customers if he's not tending the grill.  Along with such standards as brisket and pork ribs, the pastrami and burgers are standouts.

House Smoked Chicken Wings at The Horseshoe Grill (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

The Horseshoe Grill

7713 East Broadway BoulevardEastside

A family-owned steakhouse with an upscale cowboy vibe, the Horseshoe Grill is known for its skillfully prepared meats, especially the pulled pork and pork belly burnt ends. For a sampler, try the Pig Master Sandwich, which also includes bacon, sausage, and beef brisket. Sides such as the fried pickles, apple coleslaw, and the house chili make great complements to the main event meats, which you can watch being grilled in a huge glassed-in enclosure.
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TONIGHT

@vegantucsonnightmarket❤️🐖🐄
9/5 from 6–10pm 

Come support our amazing local makers, small businesses, and restaurants while eating an absolutely ridiculous amount of vegan food. 

📸Glamour shots by @viguerrafoto 
🪩Music by @visionaryhousecollective 

🌙FREE ENTRY | FREE PARKING | DOG-FRIENDLY
📍RILLITO PARK • 4502 N 1ST AVE, TUCSON, AZ

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#tucsonevents #vegantucson 
#tucsonsmallbusiness #tucsonlocalTONIGHT @vegantucsonnightmarket❤️🐖🐄 9/5 from 6–10pm Come support our amazing local makers, small businesses, and restaurants while eating an absolutely ridiculous amount of vegan food. 📸Glamour shots by @viguerrafoto 🪩Music by @visionaryhousecollective 🌙FREE ENTRY | FREE PARKING | DOG-FRIENDLY 📍RILLITO PARK • 4502 N 1ST AVE, TUCSON, AZ 🐶 @oldsoulsanimalrescue @paws_without_borders @rescuemetucson HOT/SAVORY @substancediner @hotsaucenpepper @huhushouseofdumplings Eatgypt Bereisheet 129 @bobbyskitchen__ @delcielotamal @lovinspoonfulstucson @ensenadastreetfood @mayascajunkitchen @therealnaughtyvegan @patricias_cuban_kitchen @scratchingtheplate @themakanbowl @theveganjointaz @youslydogtucson @yumyumpocha_ DESSERTS @atekei_treats @thirddaysourdough @treats_by_gabby @donutblitz @abstractaquariums @sweetrollsandmore @tucsonchocolatefactory @uniquelymadecookies @coolkidssnackcakes @dirty_t_tamarindo @duckys_pineapplebananabread @tiasourdough @eatbliss.az @flourpotvegan @maxa_oats @sahteinpatisserie Counter Crispies BEVERAGES @espressoul_cafe @transit.tea @yourcoffeestopaz @barlapachanga @scentedleaf @konaiceofmarana @littlebearlemonade Wrapido @bardownfitnessandnutrition @brewingcupofculture @lemonpoptucson SHOP LOCAL @barknberryaz @cosmicfoundry @desierto_designs @enjoycrochetandknit @greenexpressiontucson @harvestedcreations @purpleskyincense @ricos_threads @snackabeesaz @sparkle_sparrow_az @spunkykind @yellowbirdfarm @wisteriacreekcottage @wisdombodyandsoul @tacosysalsa_tucson @thedrecreations #tucsonevents #vegantucson #tucsonsmallbusiness #tucsonlocal
@Sonoranrestaurantweek runs from September 4 through 13, 2026, and it’s the perfect excuse to pair a day of Tucson sightseeing with a prix fixe meal. Since the Old Pueblo packs desert trails, historic missions, art districts, and a UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation into one metro area, visitors can easily build a full day around any interest and land near a Restaurant Week stop when it’s time to eat.

Swipe to see six itineraries built around Tucson’s core attractions, each paired with nearby restaurants participating in this year’s event. Menus and prices are subject to change, so it’s worth confirming details on the Sonoran Restaurant Week website before heading out.@Sonoranrestaurantweek runs from September 4 through 13, 2026, and it’s the perfect excuse to pair a day of Tucson sightseeing with a prix fixe meal. Since the Old Pueblo packs desert trails, historic missions, art districts, and a UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation into one metro area, visitors can easily build a full day around any interest and land near a Restaurant Week stop when it’s time to eat. Swipe to see six itineraries built around Tucson’s core attractions, each paired with nearby restaurants participating in this year’s event. Menus and prices are subject to change, so it’s worth confirming details on the Sonoran Restaurant Week website before heading out.
Ten days. One hundred twenty-five tables. 
@Sonoranrestaurantweek begins TODAY! Have you built your itinerary?👀

From September 4 to 13, local restaurants across Southern Arizona will come together for 10 days of incredible fixed-price menus at $15 to $55 — at least 20% off what they’re worth—giving diners the perfect excuse to explore Tucson’s amazing food scene. 

#sonoranrestaurantweek #srw2026 
#tucsonfoodie #tucsonarizonaTen days. One hundred twenty-five tables. @Sonoranrestaurantweek begins TODAY! Have you built your itinerary?👀 From September 4 to 13, local restaurants across Southern Arizona will come together for 10 days of incredible fixed-price menus at $15 to $55 — at least 20% off what they’re worth—giving diners the perfect excuse to explore Tucson’s amazing food scene. #sonoranrestaurantweek #srw2026 #tucsonfoodie #tucsonarizona
@Sonoranrestaurantweek is here! Join us today through September 13 for 10 days of dining across Tucson.🌵🥂

In addition to prix-fixe menus around Tucson, @sonoranrestaurantweek features a lineup of special dinners and one very special brunch. Here’s the schedule:

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • 6 PM
Inca’s Peruvian Cuisine Special Dinner
📍 @incasperuviancuisine 
 
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 • 6 PM
Penca Special Dinner
📍 @pencarestaurante 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 11 AM–2 PM
Sonoran Restaurant Week Brunch Takeover
📍 Flying V @loewsventana 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 6:30 PM
Whole Hog BBQ Dinner
📍 @bashfulbanditbbq 

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 • 6 PM
Sunshine Wine Special Dinner
📍 @sunshine_wine_tucson with @queenofcupswines 

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 • 6 PM
BOCA by Chef Maria Mazon Special Dinner
📍 @bocatucson 

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 • 6 PM
Bacio Italiano Special Dinner with @vertigo.wines 
📍 @bacio.italianoaz 

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 • 6 PM
Cielos Special Dinner
📍 @cielostucson 

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 • 6 PM 
Nana’s Kitchen Special Dinner with @rombauervineyards 
📍 @nanas_kitchen_2008 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 • 6 PM
Wild Garlic Grill Special Dinner
📍 @wildgarlicgrillofficial 

Several events have limited seating and require tickets or reservations, so plan ahead!

Sonoran Restaurant Week runs September 4–13. Tap the link in our bio for menus, tickets, reservations, and more.❤️

#SRW2026 #sonoranrestaurantweek
#tucsonfoodie #tucsonfoodieevents@Sonoranrestaurantweek is here! Join us today through September 13 for 10 days of dining across Tucson.🌵🥂 In addition to prix-fixe menus around Tucson, @sonoranrestaurantweek features a lineup of special dinners and one very special brunch. Here’s the schedule: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 • 6 PM Inca’s Peruvian Cuisine Special Dinner 📍 @incasperuviancuisine SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 • 6 PM Penca Special Dinner 📍 @pencarestaurante SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 11 AM–2 PM Sonoran Restaurant Week Brunch Takeover 📍 Flying V @loewsventana SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 • 6:30 PM Whole Hog BBQ Dinner 📍 @bashfulbanditbbq TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 • 6 PM Sunshine Wine Special Dinner 📍 @sunshine_wine_tucson with @queenofcupswines WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 • 6 PM BOCA by Chef Maria Mazon Special Dinner 📍 @bocatucson THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 • 6 PM Bacio Italiano Special Dinner with @vertigo.wines 📍 @bacio.italianoaz FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 • 6 PM Cielos Special Dinner 📍 @cielostucson SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 • 6 PM Nana’s Kitchen Special Dinner with @rombauervineyards 📍 @nanas_kitchen_2008 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 • 6 PM Wild Garlic Grill Special Dinner 📍 @wildgarlicgrillofficial Several events have limited seating and require tickets or reservations, so plan ahead! Sonoran Restaurant Week runs September 4–13. Tap the link in our bio for menus, tickets, reservations, and more.❤️ #SRW2026 #sonoranrestaurantweek #tucsonfoodie #tucsonfoodieevents