Handlebar J

I don’t have much experience with country music bars, but this great honky tonk will be the benchmark against which I will judge all others. The inside harkens to a better saloon than Hollywood could imagine, with neon bar signs, deer heads, antique guns, brothel mirrors, bull horns, farm implements you can’t identify, Western paintings, irreverent signs, and a wood-plank dance floor. Every inch of the beamed ceiling is covered with cowboy hats of the famous and not-so-famous. There are only two rules, which need not be enforced: have fun and no snivellin’. On our first visit we happily squeezed 6 people around a high top in the middle of the action. On future visits our favored spot will be at the outside side of the bar on a warm night, where we can see the inside action across the very busy bar: the live band in the corner (without chicken wire — name those movies) and the dance floor just big to swing or dip your partner, and just small enough to make it intimate. Before the band starts inside, there is some lower-key live music on the spacious outside patio, which is also a great place to escape to if you prefer conversation to the hoopin’, hollerin’, and boot stompin’ inside. Before the excellent, request-only country band took over for the recorded music, they led the entire bar in a standing Pledge of Allegiance (you never forget these words, no matter how long it’s been). This part amazed me but I’ve since been told by country bar flies that the National Anthem is more common. We loved it and were gratified that people are proud to be proud of this great country. As for food, the much-vaunted ribs were excellent, as was the pulled pork sandwich. We both ordered wine and didn’t even fear being beaten up (other tables had some too; safety in numbers). Our server was excellent, and how she kept up with the crowd was plum amazin’. We’ll be back. YouTube’s Chef’s Apprentice

First of all…. I have never had so much fun at a bar in my entire life! When I tell you that I danced for 3 hours straight… I mean that! The owner Joanne is absolutely amazing and made me feel extremely welcome! As a black woman… I can CONFIDENTLY say that the handlebar J is my new hang out spot! The vibe at this place is just unmatched! They also have some kick ass ribs… and these white folks know how to season their food! Yall come out in join me… just ask for Adisa! Oh… and if you are looking for a cowboy… they are here in ABUNDANCE!

It’s A Scottsdale institution and feels like home everytime I go! Started going before I was old enough 😜…! The Herndon family have ridden the waves over the years I’m sure, but the One consistent thing is they care about their customers! Food quality is consistent, the music is great and it’s right in the hearts of the diehards that it’s a family…Gwen was a giant heart, I miss her smiling face! Give them a try and see if maybe you don’t fall in love….#HBJ4ever❤️

I went in to meet some friends and hear a band play. Random night and wasn't expecting to go out. I had the BEST time. Great band, great venue and super fun. Highly recommend.

While visiting Scottsdale, I was on a mission to visit all the cowboy bars. This one showed up on the search and did not disappoint. We sat outside because the weather was beautiful and the ambience was what I was looking for. There was live music playing country songs. My husband and I enjoyed our dinner. We started with the fried zucchini and ranch, which was a solid appetizer. For dinner, he had the ribs with a killer biscuit which was salty with a touch of sweetness. It was probably one of the best biscuits I’ve ever had. I had the pulled pork sandwich with really good french fries. We both had margaritas. There is plenty of street parking. I enjoyed the food, music and experience and definitely recommend it.

I was waiting at Discount Tire for a tire repair and needed a late lunch and what better could I ask for than cowboy bbq. I had the pulled pork and fries. There was a comment made at the door that outside food and beverage wasn't allowed, but having no place to stash my water bottle I took it to my table. The waitress also asked if I knew outside drink was allowed, they seemed OK when I ordered a coke. Sandwich was served quickly with a smile. The only issue I had was with Google showing the restaurant was busy, when it wasn't yet even though it was Friday afternoon. I almost didn't go, not having time to wait. Glad I went anyway.

This is the best place for dinner and a show in Phoenix. The ribs are always fantastic. Very tender and juicy. I also enjoy their delicious pulled pork sandwich. But the real treat of the evening is seeing the owner, Ray, and his band up on stage doing what they do best: bringing down the house.

The Barro's promotional drinks are very expensive. Plus they want to charge you a cover charge just to get in. The staff is rude. The owners are ignorant and prejudice. The bathrooms are dirty. And most of the staff there are very stuck up. I think they think they're better than everyone else. I would not recommend this bar to anyone unless you're part of a private group that clicks together well.

Scottsdale/die bar lol great place to go in this July local music country themed. Decent food if you want to take a group and eat outside patio that great Arizona Summer but they have very small inside area for the bar and teeny teeny tiny dance floor so don't go if you want to really swing your partner around the dance floor. Bathroom with a two stall for girls what a mess that is people standing by the door conversation and not letting me through, but I think that's typical the bar scene The food is barbecue bar food. Everything drinks are good. Everything is crazy expensive because they're in Scottsdale. Keep that in mind.

I am sending out a second review after the owner of this place was tacky enough to write a negative response! He responded that a night out should cost each person that goes to his bar $100. Really?? lol!! How ridiculous. He did not acknowledge the unusually high price nine dollars for a plain club soda !! nor the attitude of the gentleman bartender who is rude and acts like he's doing you a favor, giving you a drink! The night we were there, he gave someone a drink, and the patron did not want a lime on the drink. He took the lime off of the drink and threw it across the bar floor like he was some macho, angry dude.!! Mr Hernan defends the fact that his prices are normal for this type of bar I was not kidding when I said you could go to Ruth's Chris have an appetizer and a drink for less than $25 Mr Hernan said he spent $400. there?? I don't believe he has ever even stepped into that establishment If he did, he certainly must be a good tipper. To pay that Mr Hernans establishment has been around for a long time, but it's going downhill quickly the reputation is plummeting sadly enough In the past it was a fun ,inexpensive place to go to the management was known to be friendly. This has all changed dramatically Raising prices like this it's not just going along with the changes in the economy. It's price gouging.!! The owners unwillingness to acknowledge criticism, shows not only lack of respect to a patron, but unprofessionalism running a business I am a business owner in the area myself, and I would never talk to anyone who had a complaint like this but after reading some of the other reviews, people had very similar complaints about being treated rudely , high prices for junk food, not prepared well , bouncers that he probably pays low wages to employ acting like they are some sort of celebrities , and actually kicking people off the patio because they spent too much time enjoying themselves having drinks !Mr Hernan somehow feels like $100 per night per person is acceptable for the type of bar that this is??? I think if he feels this way, he should upgrade his restaurant It doesn't matter what type of entertainment you put in it. It is a local dive bar and one of the most expensive ones in Scottsdale !!! Even the dirty dog and Ernie's do not charge those prices if you want to compare it with similar bars in the area Shame on you Mr Hernan

fantastic nachos for the kids and super friendly service. Outstanding chicken wings as well and I enjoyed a nice juicy burger. GREAT ambiance!!

First time here. It was a $10 cover on Friday night and the cover band playing was pretty average, but there was a decent crowd of mostly over 40 people. I had a simple burger and it was well done and simple.

Yelp did me dirty on this one. Wanted to take my daughter to a fun country bar for live music & line dancing. Well it started off with a $20 cover at 6p even though we were having dinner & main band didn't start until 8p. So if a fun night for you is $140 for a quesadilla, mid pulled pork, & 3 cocktails AND you are over 40 (at least) then this is your jam. Service was friendly but I'm pretty sure only "out of towners" are getting charged cover fees. Really the MOST disappointing activity of our trip. A stop at Jeni's ice cream made it less of a terrible night Hard pass on this place for us.

My spouse and I stopped in on a Friday night around 5:45 PM hoping for a quick drink and appetizer. We were surprised and disappointed to learn there was a cover charge, especially since we only stayed for about an hour. It doesn't seem fair to charge a cover so early for someone just wanting drinks and a snack. We might consider trying the ribs another time, but the cover charge was a definite deterrent. Our waitress was super sweet and attentive.

A great place for bbq and good music plus dancing BUT they've discontinued their 2 step lessons. Bring back the 2 step lessons!!!!! Please!

Typically I'm not one to write reviews but my experience at Handlebar J's really stuck out and wanted to provide my insight. Stopped in Friday night during the peak of the hustle and bustle, and I was highly impressed. 11pm and the party was bumpin! The bar was slammed with guests yet my fiance and I were still able to get drinks from the redhead in less than a minute. DELICIOUS margaritas and we ended up getting two more rounds before closing out the night. The vibe of the place is all entertainment for every one of your senses. The live music was great and kept the party going. Didn't get to try the food but will return based on my drinks and high quality level of service. Kickass drinks, kickass bartenders, and an amazing band. Will be back this weekend. Thanks Handlebar J's!

Great food, great service, and the live music is amazing! Highly recommend, its an experience!

Best country bar and restaurant on the planet. Was a twice a week regular when I lived there, and still try to get there when I visit

HBJ's is a great place , I have personally been going for decades, And with that it has always been a great time with fantastic food , awesome drinks and Amazing Music and Environment . I could not help but browse some other reviews and I just cannot believe there are people that complain about what they complain about .. One in particular , She apparently has no idea what things cost in the world these days or has somebody else paying . That broad was way off with the economics... Anyways , Keep doin what you guys do , HBJ is loved by Many ! Maybe she should get a job to support herself instead of complaining ...

Great place and even better people! Food was hot, fresh and delicious! Perfect little country bar for dancing and fun entertainment! 5's

Nice Ambiance. Indoor and outdoor seating. Nice vibe. Just stopping in for a cocktail. Huge selection at the bar and a huge dance floor. One of the best Old fashions we've had. Bri and AJ were great waitresses

While visiting Scottsdale, I was on a mission to visit all the cowboy bars. This one showed up on the search and did not disappoint. We sat outside because the weather was beautiful and the ambience was what I was looking for. There was live music playing country songs. My husband and I enjoyed our dinner. We started with the fried zucchini and ranch, which was a solid appetizer. For dinner, he had the ribs with a killer biscuit which was salty with a touch of sweetness. It was probably one of the best biscuits I've ever had. I had the pulled pork sandwich with really good french fries. We both had margaritas. There was plenty of parking outside. We arrived early for dinner, so there was no cover charge. I enjoyed the food, music and experience and definitely recommend it.

The food the service and the ambience at handlebar J's is fantastic. Always a family, favorite, and great to bring guests to when they're in town.

$6 for a Diet Coke is fucking insane! Music was good but a $10 cover fee for a glorified dive bar is crazy.

We came to Scottsdale for the TPC and stopped in to your place. The food was awesome (ribs), the ambience was awesome (nice folks, fun, dancing), and the music was awesome (classic rock band - forgot their name). Definitely coming back when we can!

Service was just ok. Fried zucchini horrible. Got a double vodka soda and think they forgot the vodka. Music was good though

Good food, great atmosphere. Band was okay but not as great as they promised. Plus it was the owners band which made it worse by wanting $10.00 cover for their own band??

Service & Security were unacceptable. I went in to watch a friend perform and got violently escorted out for sitting at a community table.

Historically, I have been a huge fan of handlebar J last night I went with a friend from out of town bragging about how exciting this was going to be. I was charged $10 per person for cover for a band that was not worth $10 per person cover, and then my bill for the two of us was $150. The rack of ribs was a half rack for with a muffin and no other sides, my boyfriend got a pulled pork sandwich, which was decent, but again not worth the amount of money that we were charged what happened to this place? It used to be so perfect to take friends to enjoy country music..... PS the drinks were overpriced and not good. I'm so sad. I guess I don't go back..... An Addition to the previous comment I was charged for barbecue sauce, ranch and coleslaw with my ribs, in addition as I look at my receipt, I was charged an additional $10 along with the $10 admission per person!!!! the seat I was sitting at was very dark. I couldn't have read this receipt there now as I'm reading it. It makes me sick.

I've never left a review on this app before. However, I have to leave one for this incredibly dissatisfying experience. Bouncers are very proactive, which I can understand with how entitled most individuals are. There was no room in the bar for a small group to mingle, and the dance floor was incredibly small. All of this aside, I HAD TO PAY 6 BUCKS FOR A WATER! Never have I ever had to pay anything for a water. 1 dollar? Sure. 2 dollars? Fine I guess. But 6 dollars is ridiculous. Never coming back here again.

Had a awesome time last night been a while since my friends and I went to Handle Bar Jay new staff are friendly and caring Sat outside because they don't remove the bar chair After working 12 hrs at the hospital than going out Like to sit They remove the chairs from the Bar have to stand not good especially for us elderly customer Was on the way to order food Thought they still have all u can eat fish like used to be bar tender said no hand me Menue little on it I did price increase. I understand. About paying employees food order liquor order plus pay for entertainment. You should have happy hour ends 7 than start appetizer by 10 pm so no one drives home Drunk Still had a good time If only I could dance no one ever ask . So I just listen to good country Western music Reminds me my dad used to play .

Great BBQ in Scottsdale AZ. The decor is is totally country. The ribs, beans, fries, onion rings, burgers, ice cream sundae, apple pie burrito with ice cream and the drinks were delicious. The service was great!!! Then there was a live country band. They were amazing. If you are craving bbq and country music, this is the place to go.

This is the Arizona country bar in my opinion. There is live music, dancing and I even had a dance lesson here one time! I had a blast. There is a cover charge (only during peak hours to pay for the great live entertainment) so be prepared- bring some cash and a good attitude. The crowd is always friendly and the patio is large. I always enjoy myself here. Fun spot. If you love country- this is not to miss! If you even like country a little- not to miss. *closed on sundays* Last night, I noticed that they sell some fun merch too.... Pictured here the "welcome to the "shitshow" hats! Cute.

The food is great, the staff is excellent, and the music is amazing! From time to time you get amazing guest artists who are nationally known. You can't go wrong with this place. Highly recommended!

As a Scottsdale native, I can say there isn't a better place to hang your hat, have a beer, and listen to good music. My family has been coming to Handlebars for decades. It's a favorite for so many reasons, but knowing the family who's always owned and operated this iconic spot might top the list. If you're looking for a truly authentic Arizona experience, this is it!

Hadn't been to Handlebar J's in years but went for St. Pat's Day. Service, food was great and we loved the band Elvis Before Noon....such a festive evening!

An Arizona ICon, live handlebar j's. The food is good the live music is great and the atmosphere is electric!

Handel Bar J's is the best country bar around! Their ribs are amazing and affordable! Always happy at Handle Bar js. The staff is the best too!! We will be back soon!

Big Time country bar they could use some different country bands and drinks are pretty costly $12 just for a Tito's vodka on the rocks pretty high for just average country bar plus a $10 cover makes you think about their prices a little more, if you're a regular it gets pricey!!

On none of the advertisement that I see there was a $20 door cover. Eight people out with us. So that's $160 to walk in the door. They could argue that they had a live band and that's why the cover charge to listen to the live band and dance. We try dancing, but only about six couples could possibly fit on the tiny dance floor. The rest of the dance floor was covered with tables that they put out to hold more people. Drinks and food are regularly priced for a downtown Scottsdale establishment. So our tab was a little bit on the high side. Which is to be expected I guess from Scottsdale. The staff was very friendly, however a little overwhelmed with the amount of people.

Can't provide much of a review on the food as we've never come for dinner, but if you're looking for great ambiance away from the mess of Old Town, there's no more authentic, country bar in town. I see a lot of reviews griping about the cover - which usually isn't charged until about 8:00 on live music nights only. And if you're there before they start charging, then good for you. Staff is always friendly, musicians play outside frequently (no cover for the outside acts - check their website) and it's a perfect early evening/sunset spot.

My kids say this is the best restaurant in all of Scottsdale. They love the service, the ambience, the food, and the owner. They say our family feels so welcomed here

Wow...what a disappointment. I have always wanted,to go here and finally for my bday along with 2 other bdays to celebrate my friends and I went. Holy cow, definitely bring your credit card, cash etc bcuz it's gonna set ya back. 1 Tito's/cranberry, $11, $14 after the band starts. Even the food was expensive!! $19 for 9 wings? Then one of the ladies brought cupcakes to celebrate the b-days, they charge a $25 cake cutting fee!!!!! What!!!! I have never heard of this. Was to.d because they have desserts? Soooo! I've been to a lot of bars and restaurants where I've brought in my own nothing but bundts, or cupcakes or homemade cakes never had a problem. This is the first time I've ever ran into anything like this absolutely ridiculous. Once we found that out we finished what drinks we had and we left, as much as I love the atmosphere, and it's probably the only bar that has country western live music and dancing Probably won't go back. AND there is a cover charge on top of the crazy prices!!! My suggestion: go have dinner and drinks somewhere else and then just come for the live music and dancing.

I am sad and also hungey. This institution (of which I have patroned for 25 years), has gone downhill and fast. If you arrive after 6:30 each person has to pay a cover charge $10 for a seat to dine. If you want to sit inside they now have rules upon rules........90 minutes per table- after your'e out of here.........$50 minimum per person........Geeech. At 8:30 the $10 cover which I am cool about, is for live music which begins, but beforehand???!! The food was an embarassmnet. My out of town guests were polite but no one finished their food or wanted to take it home. The ribs were dry and undercooked- not even close to falling off the bone. O and their menu is NOT what is on the website as it offer only 5 items now. No more excuses about COVID made us do some changes. This old reliable institution has ridden off into the sunset.

Went to a private event here and I cannot say enough good things about this place! Bartender was professional, quick and kept a clean bar. But the best thing is the ladies room. Never seen a ladies room at a bar/restaurant tbh is clean! Impressive!

The Place To Go for Excellent entertainment , food, fun & celebration! or just a great time to make it through the week! I love Handle Bar J's! Exceptional Music & a great vibe! If you haven't been lately you need to check it out again & a great place to be a regular! Thanks Handle Bar J for great memories & the future ones too!

Food service and ambiance is absolutely fantastic. I'll be bringing my wife back for date night all the time. The live music is the best and the bbq is fall off the bone melt in your mouth! Great bartenders and servers too

Love this place. Always have. Great food and amazing music. It sounds good. Not to loud and not distorted. This place is a gem

HJB. Thank you for accommodating for our spontaneous group. I love your outdoor seating your indoor dance floor the decor but I really enjoyed the owners and there staff. I bought a tequila purse, watch people take dance lessons next time I will have to jump in and I can't wait to go back someday to see the live music. Thank you JoAnn, Ray, Tess & Camile. I WOULD RECOMMEND

We went for a quick drink and appetizers. We ordered wings and zucchini. Both came out so fast and were delicious. Our server Karen was awesome and so kind. We ended up staying for several hours. Live music, dancing and god vibes. This place is so fun. I highly recommend for food, drinks, dancing and live music. And if you're lucky enough to have Karen as your server, it's bound to be a great time.

I rarely actually leave reviews, but this was phenomenally bad. Like I get it - it's primarily a bar, so I give leeway on food service at establishments primarily based around drinks. But if you run out of an entree, it's not rocket science to put the replacement order at the front of the line so the food comes out at the same time as the rest of the table. And when asked about it, the server isn't supposed to say "oh yeah, since we were out of the ribs it will come out later." Also, as a recovering alcoholic, I don't usually feel actively ignored by servers. Not here; they'll let you sit without a drink indefinitely. And they were out of CO2 (???) I can't really think of anything they could have done worse. Food was okay, but due to their deranged policies on when they put in tickets, was seasoned with a healthy pinch of one person at the table saying "no thanks, I'll wait" as everyone offered half of their food and made awkward conversation as they decided to wait 20 minutes until the last person's food arrived or eat now. So it may as well have been bad. Edit: Since business responded: this was tonight, 2/3/24 and I left about a half hour ago. (8:30) Thanks for the quick response; interesting choice to respond to customer reviews during business hours. That might explain some things.

What is advertised, with pictures and descriptions,is not what they deliver. For example, the burger shows fully stacked and says it comes with skinny fries. But it is just a plain burger and if you want they'll add lettuce, tomato and onion. Fries are extra. Same with the BBQ pulled pork sandwich. Which honestly tasted like it came from a tub. Picture looked amazing. Service was good but for location, price and expectations it fell far short. Edit: the menu online your website needs to be updated if you are claiming your information is correct.

I've always loved this bar, but lately since a new manager (Miley), started, the ambiance and "vibe" of the bar has gone down hill. She is rude and passive aggressive with the other staff. The bartenders are all so nice and talkative, except for when the manager is there. They seem very unhappy and the toxic manager definitely makes the vibe in the bar uncomfortable. People come here to unwind and be happy. This gal needs to mosey on out!

Easiest review to write ever- GREAT food, friendly service, fun atmosphere! Found it by accident during a quick weekend to AZ. The burgers and chicken sandwich were absolutely delicious and and that's not just because I started with two of their killer margaritas! The live music was a real treat too! The whole family loved it! We will make this a regular stop when we travel again!

What a unique night this out-of-towner had! The band was great, crowd was fun, atmosphere was alive. I hope to visit Scottsdale again soon!

Food is really good. Music is always great! The people that work there are amazing! It's small but worth it

Not what it used to be. Went for dinner- there were four options for entrees. The apps had a larger variety, but they were out of a few of them. Had the worst margarita I've ever had in my life. There was bird poop on the table. It was my husband's bdays and if we didn't have a baby with on a strict bedtime timeline we would have left after the first drink. We were just very disappointed. Staff was very friendly and there were dance lessons going On, but it's become quite a dive. It used to be a nice place for dinner. The four options they had were good, but the portions were tiny. TWO potato wedges... lol. Will not return for food. May stop for a drink, definitely not a margarita.