Arizona grows a lot of pecans, so it makes sense that some of its best barbecue joints save room for pecan pie. The four smokehouses on this list sit in smaller towns and desert communities, from the farm country of the Gila Valley to the foot of the Superstition Mountains.
Each one pairs smoked meats with a slice of that sweet, nutty pie, and each has its own personality. If you like road trips that end with brisket and dessert, this list is for you.
1. Rafter G BBQ, Safford, AZ
Breakfast at a barbecue joint is not something you see every day. Rafter G BBQ opens at 7 AM Monday through Saturday, which makes it an easy early stop for anyone passing through Safford on Thatcher Boulevard.
Safford is a farming community of about 10,000 people in the Gila Valley, and the restaurant fits that easygoing, small-town pace. The kitchen focuses on smoked meats and brisket, and a two-meat plate is a popular way to sample the menu.
Sides stick to the classics, including mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans. There is also a smoked sausage link sandwich and a TLT, which swaps in turkey for bacon on the familiar sandwich setup.
Fans of a little heat can look for the bourbon and chipotle sauce.
Then there is the pecan pie, sold by the slice. I would save room for it, since it is the sweetest way to wrap up a plate of brisket here.
Plan around Sunday, when the restaurant is closed. There is a drive-through for travelers in a hurry, free parking, and prices that usually land between 10 and 20 dollars per person.
Reservations are not taken, so just show up hungry.
2. Big Tex BBQ, Willcox, AZ
Willcox has deep railroad roots, so eating barbecue inside a train car here feels right at home. Big Tex BBQ serves its meals in a dining railroad car on East Maley Street, giving the stop a historic look that stands apart from a typical roadside restaurant.
The town of around 3,200 people is also known for growing pecans. That makes a slice of pecan pie with ice cream a fitting way to finish a meal in this corner of Cochise County.
The menu covers plenty of ground. Baby back ribs, brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, and the combo plate handle the barbecue side, while a pastrami sandwich, chicken fried steak, and stuffed baked potatoes add variety.
Burgers show up too, including teriyaki mushroom and California versions. Corn nuggets make a fun side, and the freshly baked rolls and hot apple pie are also popular picks.
Families will find a kids’ menu and high chairs, and there is a salad bar for lighter appetites. Hours run 11 AM to 8 PM most days, with Friday open until 9 PM and Sunday closed.
Reservations are accepted, and parking is usually plentiful.
3. Dutchman’s Country BBQ, Apache Junction, AZ
Pork belly on a stick is a pretty good reason to head out the Apache Trail. Dutchman’s Country BBQ is known for its pork belly lollipops, and the view of the Superstition Mountains comes free with the meal.
Apache Junction has kept its Old West outpost personality even as the Phoenix area has grown around it. The restaurant leans into that setting with outdoor seating, a fireplace, and live music.
Smoked brisket is a big part of the lineup, and the Double Brisket Burger takes it a step further by stacking it onto a burger. Portions tend to be generous, and the pecan pie tart gives dessert lovers a smaller take on the classic.
This is one of the more social stops on the list. Sports play on the screens, there is free wi-fi, and dogs are welcome in the outdoor area.
Families get a kids’ menu, high chairs, and changing tables. It is open every day, with late hours until 10 PM on Friday and Saturday.
Weekends get busy, so a reservation is a smart move if you are bringing a group after a day of hiking.
4. Caldwell County BBQ at Pecan Lake, Queen Creek, AZ
A barbecue spot at a place called Pecan Lake had better take its pie seriously, and this one does. Caldwell County BBQ sits in a recreation area in Queen Creek, a town that still holds onto its orchard and horse-country roots.
The style here is Texas barbecue with an Arizona twist. Meats are wood-smoked with mesquite, and the brisket is the headliner.
Brisket sliders and the East Side Pig give you other ways to try the smoked meats. Sides include mac and cheese, potato salad, and a lemon poppyseed coleslaw that brings a brighter flavor than the usual version.
Dessert is where this stop really earns its spot. The pecan pie is a standout, and banana pudding and Texas sheet cake round out a strong sweets menu.
Ordering happens at the counter, which keeps things moving quickly. There is outdoor seating where dogs can join you, plus a private dining room for bigger gatherings.
It is open daily from 10:30 AM, staying open until 10 PM on Friday and Saturday. Saturday afternoons are the busiest, so a weekday lunch is a calmer option.
Expect to spend about 20 to 30 dollars per person.
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