Newcomers’ Guide to the Best BBQ in the West Valley

Have a hankering for a hearty helping of grilled meat? Head to the West Valley.

Eric’s Family Barbecue
This new barbecue joint specializes in Central-Texas-style brisket, rubbed with little more than salt and pepper and smoked over mesquite until it reaches a lovely ratio of carmelized bark to fatty flesh.
12345 W. Indian School Rd., Avondale
623-248-0148, ericsfamilybbq.com

Dillon’s
This rambling, down-home restaurant is beloved for its barbecued ribs and chicken, pecan-smoked and served with comforting sides including mashed potatoes, steak fries, macaroni and cheese, barbecue baked beans and potato salad. Fish sandwiches and platters are awesome, too.
20585 N. 59th Ave., Glendale
623-566-8100, dillonsrestaurant.com

JJ’s Louisiana BBQ
Specializing in slow-cooked Southern-style meats, this hole-in-the-wall barbecue haven offers hot links, rib tips, pulled pork, brisket and a slew of stellar home-style sides including potato salad and macaroni and cheese.
5601 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale
623-396-1727

This article first appeared in the 2023 City Guide, published by PHOENIX magazine in November 2022.