Joe's Real BBQ

Joe's Real BBQ has been a cornerstone of Gilbert, Arizona's culinary scene since 1998, serving what many consider the best barbecue in the Phoenix metro area. This family-owned restaurant, operated by the Johnston and Peelen Families, occupies a beautifully restored 1929 Safeway Pay n' Takit grocery building in the Gilbert Heritage District, making it a destination that combines rich local history with exceptional smoked meats. The pitmasters at Joe's Real BBQ obsessionally smoke all their meats for hours using only Arizona pecan wood—no gas, no electricity, no shortcuts—to achieve the depth of flavor and tenderness that has earned them thousands of loyal customers. The menu features a mouthwatering array of options including their famous BBQ sandwiches, jumbo sandwiches, meat plates, and a showstopping 4-meat sampler plate with ribs, chicken, brisket, and pork. House specialties like Joe's Big BBQ Feast feed four people and include ribs, pork, brisket, sausage, two large sides, cornbread, buns, and two jumbo baked potatoes. They offer 12 different side dishes made fresh from scratch daily, and their Smoker Pavilion allows guests to watch the pitmasters at work while enjoying their meal on the climate-controlled patio or festive picnic park. Open daily from 11am to 9pm, Joe's Real BBQ also provides full catering services and gift cards for those who want to share the authentic Arizona BBQ experience.