Caldwell County BBQ
Barbecue restaurant · Maricopa County ·

Caldwell County BBQ

Barbecue restaurant · Maricopa County ·

Wood-smoked Texas-style BBQ classics with brisket, ribs, and sides

brisket
pulled pork
corn casserole
mac & cheese
beef ribs
friendly staff
banana pudding
jalapeno cheddar sausage
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by Eater - Lists + Maps
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null
Caldwell County BBQ by null

Information

18324 E Nunneley Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296 Get directions

$10–20

Order delivery
See Menu
Usually a wait
Restroom
Accepts reservations
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner

Information

Static Map

18324 E Nunneley Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296 Get directions

+1 480 892 0512
caldwellcountybbq.com
@caldwellcountybbq

$10–20 · Menu

Features

•Usually a wait
•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Popular for dinner
•Cozy
•Trendy
•Good for groups

Last updated

Jan 17, 2026

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Best Barbecue Restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona | Eater Phoenix

"In Gilbert, local barbecue veteran Clay Caldwell serves up Texas-style smoked meats from a converted house surrounded by fields. Offset smokers puff away, producing juicy, flavorful ribs and a brisket that many people contend is one of the best in Arizona. Vibes are chill — picnic tables, umbrellas, the feeling of eating at a friend’s home. Some standouts include a baked potato heaped high with shredded brisket, and pinto beans jolted with shreds of pulled pork. Sides and desserts are worth the stomach real estate. But first, consider a cornbread casserole that reaches max richness with sour cream and Hatch chiles, a side that deserves a spot in the local barbecue Pantheon." - Chris Malloy

https://phoenix.eater.com/maps/best-barbecue-restaurants-phoenix-arizona
Eater - Lists + Maps
Caldwell County BBQ
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Family-run barbecue blending Texas craft with Arizona touches. Known for long-smoked brisket, ribs, corn casserole, and a backyard setting that feels like a community cookout.

https://caldwellcountybbq.com/
Best Restaurants in Gilbert (2025)
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Caldwell County BBQ

Lane R.

Google
I finally got to try Caldwell County BBQ at Pecan Lake, and I enjoyed it. I went with the Build Your Own Plate and was very satisfied with my choices. I ordered the 1/2 lb of Brisket and a side of Mac and Cheese. The brisket was tender and had a great smoke ring and bark, solid, quality BBQ. The mac and cheese was creamy and a perfect complement. I also appreciated the complimentary sides of onions, pickles, and peppers for a little extra kick. Service was quick and friendly. I highly recommend it for a great BBQ fix in the area!

Kyle S.

Google
As if the thousands of 5 star review aren’t enough, Caldwell BBQ are not messing around. I’ve had bbq in every state worth mentioning and this place had the best brisket I’ve ever tasted. Saturday night the line was around 3 sides of the building but they were efficient and kept the line moving. Plenty of seating. Sauces were incredible. If you’re there after 5, don’t expect them to have ribs- but that’s a bbq joint for ya. Couldn’t think of any downsides, however I did feel like the sides deserved to match the quality of the meat; in this case, they were just ok. Will definitely be back

James L.

Google
We had been here once before and then again had takeout. Both times the food was amazing and I had been wanting to go back again. I had been looking for a place they served beef ribs and Caldwell’s had them on Fridays after 5 and on the weekends until they sell out. We stopped in for lunch not long after they opened on Saturday and there was no line at that time. By the time we left the line was getting large. We ordered beef rib and a 1/4 pound bd of their brisket. We also ordered two sides the corn casserole and the macaroni and cheese. It was more than the two of us could eat. The beef rib was just so tasty and juicy. I had not had once since I was teenager and I was happy to have found a good once. The brisket was most and flavorful and tender as can be. The corn casserole was really good, we had had it before but this time we also got those macaroni and cheese and it was the best I’ve ever had. Overall it was a fantastic dinning experience and we can’t wait to go back again.

Melissa C.

Google
My first time coming here to celebrate my 40th birthday this past Saturday after hearing about this great restaurant on the radio! Food was delicious..Atmosphere was great! I gave the service 3 stars because the young lady at the front counter with blonde hair that was serving the food was not polite or pleasant at all..she seemed very overwhelmed as if she was not happy to be working there. And she also did not give us our complimentary o ions, peppers and pickles or bread. Otherwise all other staff was friendly, kind and patient. We loved the food and experience! We will be back again!

Michael L.

Google
Caldwell county BBQ might be the easiest 5 star review I have ever left. From the beginning to end the experience is great. After parking and walking towards the entrance I was greeted by some of the pit masters that are outside by the entrance. After entering, I was also kindly greeted by the employees behind the counter. I was asked if I wanted to sample anything and treated very well. After I paid and set down I was checked on twice by different people checking in and seeing if I needed anything. Don’t get me wrong the service was great, but the food was stupendous. The jalapeño cheddar sausage and the brisket were amazing. The Mac and cheese is a staple and the new chili that they added to the menu is a must-try! Great experience and will be back! (even thought is a 1 hour drive)

Michael H.

Google
I was in Phoenix recently on a business trip and wanted to try a different BBQ joint. For reference, I've eaten at Little Miss BBQ, Can't Stop Smoking and Rudy's. Caldwell County BBQ was ~25 mi from my airport location. I arrived at 1:30 PM on a Tuesday, so I can't comment on the lunch crowd. The front of the building is unassuming making it look like a smaller place. It's not until you get inside the you realize the building extends pretty far back. On-site parking may be a challenge at busy times, so I just made my life easier and parked in the lot across the street. The menu isn't too extensive but has the usual offerings. I ordered a pulled pork sandwich, potato salad, banana pudding and a drink for ~$25. The pulled pork sandwich was fantastic. The roll was soft but not too thick. I do use BBQ sauce but not enough to obscure the meat's flavor. All that said, the sauce was to my liking as well. The potato salad side was a hefty portion and also well done. Lastly, the banana pudding while served in a plastic cup, was a perfect way to end the meal. As you leave, you go out towards their back patio. There is a large smoker is within 25 feet of wherever you sit, so you can get that aroma while you dine. That's where I'll be next time.

Angela O.

Google
10/10 BBQ brisket. You can go check out the big smokers outside too. The workers were wrapping up the brisket and very informative on the process. Really great place!

Yesenia P.

Google
Absolutely fantastic BBQ spot! The food was outstanding—perfectly smoked meats, flavorful sides, and everything cooked to perfection. Service was top-notch, truly 5/5 friendly, attentive, and made us feel right at home. We especially loved the outdoor seating in the evening. The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable, with just the right vibe for a laid-back meal. Indoor seating is available too, but if the weather’s nice, definitely opt for outdoors. Highly recommend if you're looking for great BBQ, excellent service, and a welcoming environment!
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Maricross D.

Yelp
The staff were welcoming, and the atmosphere was cozy--perfect for spending time with friends and family. We visited based on a recommendation from my partner's coworker, and overall, the experience was mixed. I'm giving this place four stars largely because my partner really enjoyed the beef rib; it was incredibly tender and practically fell off the bone. That said, I'm pretty particular when it comes to pork ribs, and I was a bit disappointed that mine were cold when I started eating. As someone who doesn't usually branch out to BBQ spots since I already have a go-to for ribs (Joe's BBQ), this experience didn't quite win me over. Still, I think anyone who enjoys exploring different BBQ styles would appreciate this place. While it was a solid experience overall, it's likely a one-and-done for me.

Jana B.

Yelp
Staff friendly. BBQ brisket sandwich was fantastic (lean), sauce great, potato salad tangy and delicious, the only complaint I would have is that the ribs were not smoked long enough. They were tough and not fall off the bone tender. With the Dr. Pepper and beer umbrellas outside and that big, beautiful shade tree the ambiance was perfect for a good time. I will return. Thank you Caldwell!
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Andy S.

Yelp
Food is good. Ok I guess. When you have real good BBQ in Texas you will understand. Service is good. Place is well kept and clean. Way too expensive for what it is, personal opinion. Would only go back if my wife forced me to. Update. Thank you Clay so much for your attention. I was not expecting direct communication with you. I'm certain my wife will love to go back to Caldwell Country BBQ.
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Rachel C.

Yelp
We went to Caldwell County for BBQ about a month ago and it was SO good! My husband, mother in law, and her boyfriend all ordered a bunch of food and it was amazing. We got the following: - east side pig AKA pulled pork sandwich (sooo good) - sausage link (not my personal fav but my family loved it!) - baked potato AKA a baked potato with meat in it (my MIL got it with brisket. She loved it!) - aunt Susan's corn casserole (honestly some of the best corn casserole I think I have had) - Caldwell potato salad (sooo yummy) - bbq salad with pulled pork (the bbq ranch dressing was delicious!!) We loved everything and can't wait to go back. We are planning on getting a gift card for my MIL and her boyfriend for Christmas!
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Ed H.

Yelp
To sum it up in three letters WOW! We went there this evening. It was our first time there. The line was a little long but the employees encouraged us and said that the line goes pretty quick. We waited maybe half an hour. When it was time for us to order the staff member that helped us was super nice. I don't eat pork, so asked if he could get a new cutting board and he did. The food was delicious and the service was amazing! While we were eating, the manager came to ask if everything was okay. We said it was excellent and told him we forgot to order the cake. He went and got us a slice on the house! The atmosphere was extremely nice too! Highly recommend this place!
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Tahs L.

Yelp
Be prepared for a wait because this spot is so popular but there's lots of seating inside and outside. The line went quick though and the staff was super friendly and inviting. We got a pound of brisket and a 1/4 pound of pulled pork. We also tried the Mac n cheese, corn side, and banana pudding. It was all very good and had a very uniform flavor. I'd say the prices were a bit high but overall an enjoyable experience.
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Patrick L.

Yelp
If you got some money and want to eat really good, this place will be up your alley if you're a BBQ enjoyer. (Pricey side, but well worth.) As I entered, the staff welcomed me in and held a friendly and accommodating energy to everyone around. Genuine flavors of the brisket brought out by complementing the cut of meat already, on top of the harmony of savory and satisfying. Loved the soft bite along side with their selection of sauces on the table.
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Maureen J.

Yelp
I highly recommend this BBQ place. The BBQ was yummy! Great value and it fed our party of 5. Great ambiance sitting inside or outside. The wait wasn't too bad either. The banana pudding was good too! The workers were friendly. The pit masters were awesome, they gave us an overview on grilling the brisket and other BBQ. They were very friendly, knowledgeable, and personable. Loved the experience and interaction.
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Jariel S.

Yelp
One of my favorite bbq spots especially for the atmosphere. You can eat then play games! There is go kart there is axe throwing and mini golf. The food is mmmm I love bbq and being surrounded by good vibes makes it even better. The service is fast and nice they always give me my bbq with a smile
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Bondade C.

Yelp
Long overdue update and review. I am changing my experience to 5 stars. I went in June and the owner, Clay, reached out to me, but I didn't receive the message until a few weeks later. He asked me what could have been better. The owner was passionate about his restaurant and genuinely wanted to discuss some points I mentioned in my previous review. We visited on a busier day, yet the customer service remained commendable. We opted for similar dishes to our first visit: the ribs and the brisket, mac and cheese, and the beans. The meat was incredibly tender and juicy. The ribs practically fell off the bones, and the flavor was enhanced. I am so glad we returned to give it another chance. While we don't live nearby, the experience left a lasting impression, and the food was much better. The owner takes immense pride in his restaurant, and I truly appreciate that he reached out.
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Sadie A.

Yelp
This is some good bbq! We are so glad we made it on the weekend because they had their beef ribs but we tried a little of everything and it was delicious! Favorites were the beef ribs (they have a delicious chimichurri you put on top too!) and brisket. Like the pork, the sausage was good, spicy, and turkey was moist and my kids loved it. Sides - we like the potato salad and Mac n cheese the best but the meats are the star! It's definitely on the pricier side of BBQ but meat is so expensive right now. 10/10 recommend stopping in! The service was wonderful and the patio outside is lovely to sit on during the cooler months!
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Jackie B.

Yelp
Meat had great flavor, Mac was amazing. Portions are big, food came fast, and staff is friendly. I would definitely go back
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Candii B.

Yelp
I'll be honest--I'm usually not a huge BBQ fan, especially if it's not straight from the South. But Caldwell County BBQ? This place takes the trophy. Every time I visit, there's a line out the door--and it's easy to see why. During my most recent visit, I ordered the East Side Pig (a pulled pork sandwich) along with Julio's Mac n Cheese, which is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor from the blend of cheeses and roasted green chilies. I also got Aunt Susan's Corn Casserole, a comforting mix of cornbread, sour cream, and hatch green chilies that was absolute heaven. Every bite is full of bold, savory flavor that feels like comfort food straight from someone's Southern kitchen. Their house sauces are also worth a shout--they perfectly complement whatever you're eating without overpowering it. If anyone asks me where to get good BBQ in Arizona, I tell them: make the drive to Gilbert and try this place. You won't regret it.
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Kayla W.

Yelp
This is my husband my favorite BBQ place in the valley! We don't live close but it is worth the drive every single time! The delicious food and casual, yet stylish ambiance is great. On our most recent visit, we brought 15 family members who were in town for our wedding. We were worried about seating, but shouldn't have been! We asked a server what they recommended we do so we could all sit together, and not disrupt other guests, and the manager and a server kindly took over, moved tables and chairs around, and made sure we had everything we needed! It was absolutely perfect and the dinner was a success. This just put a smile on my face because it's exactly what I should've expected from such a stellar restaurant and staff!
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Bill W.

Yelp
The smoked meats were 5 stars. The brisket was very well smoked and not super fatty yet moist. My wife had the Turkey and also said it was excellent. So good in fact she asked if they did a Thanksgiving Meal. She also enjoyed the Cole slaw. I had the brisket. Strongly recommended. The beans, I'd pass and get something else. It took quite a bit of added BBQ sauce to get a good flavor. The service is you walk up to the counter and order but everyone was very pleasant and helpful. The tab is $20-$25 a person unless you add dessert. If you do get the chocolate pecan sheet cake. Very good and in our case free as one of the employees came over to ask about our meal and asked if we'd like to try one of the desserts. The ambiance is picnic table casual but comfortable as well. I'd give it a five if I liked the beans better. On the more expensive side for lunch or casual dining but worth it because good meat isn't cheap.

Molly D.

Yelp
We ordered the Dixie V and the East Side Pig Sammie's. Sides, coleslaw, Mac n chz and corn casserole. As you can see by the photo, not much left. I had a really hard time deciding what would be my last bite!! We will definitely be coming back! Only downside....limited bathrooms....
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Roger T.

Yelp
Great food friendly staff, and the place gives you the hometown country feel. Can't go wrong with brisket and ribs.
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Amanda M.

Yelp
Stopped in for dinner, small place but delicious food. We tried the brisket elote and the tostadas. All had a wonderful flavor and the people that helped us were friendly and wanted to educate us on the menu which is helpful for a first timer such as us. Unfortunately we had to sit outside because of it being a smaller place and limited seating inside. It was cold but there are heaters near all the tables which provided warmth.
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Cyndi W.

Yelp
The ambiance here is amazing, they have all their BBQ ready to go, just need to stand in line to be served! The workers will always offer free samples and everything we ended up ordering were delicious! We tried the brisket, burnt ends and the pork ribs. for sides we had the corn bread and mac n cheese! All the meats were delicious and pairs perfect with their house sauces. My favorite was the brisket and burnt ends! They offer complimentary pickled veggies with your food so remember to ask for some! We absolutely devoured our food and enjoyed every bit of it, loved that we didn't have to wait for anything, there is indoor as well as patio seating. Would definitely be coming back next time I'm in the area :)
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Gregg G.

Yelp
Great vibes with old converted farmhouse and lots of outdoor eating. Brisket, Mac n cheese and pulled pork was the grub consumed tonight. Brought a lot of out of town family to eat and met one of the sons. Sounds like they might be expanding into UT at some point. I feel like this location is better than the Queen creek. Excellent BBQ and will be back for sure .
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Yotes A.

Yelp
It's been a couple years since I've been back to Caldwell county bbq. I honestly don't remember much from the last time but this time I was blown away. The brisket is a great example of simple is best. Not too complicated and letting the beef and smoke shine the strong flavor of mesquite is one of my favorite types of smoke. The ribs were perfect. Being able to take a bite with no tear or feathering. Just leaving a cartoonish bite mark with minimal pressure required. This is what a rib is. Anything that is "fall off the bone" where it actually can't even be moved was probably overcooked. But here. Perfection. Oh I also got to see the pits and talk to Zack who was working the pits and we talked about barbecue joints he wants to go to and ones I thought were interesting. He had such a hunger for knowledge and a want to try out all the different barbecue joints Texas has to offer. Because as they say you can't make good barbecue without having eaten great barbecue. If I had more time in Phoenix this trip I'd love to come back but I'll definitely try to stop by the next time I'm in town.
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Amy H.

Yelp
SO GOOD! We will be going back! Not only is the atmosphere at Pecan Lake so fun and family friendly, but the food and bbq at Caldwell was amazing! We had four in our party and ordered the family meal, amazing meats, sides and the vibe of the whole restaurant as well as the service was fabulous!
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Alexis B.

Yelp
Without a doubt, this is the best BBQ in Arizona. I've been here several times, and it never disappoints. The service is always great, and I love the piece of brisket they hand you as soon as you walk in. Everything on the menu is great, but if you want to try a bit of everything, go for the El Patton General, it comes with brisket, pork, and sausage.
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Drake R.

Yelp
Pretty good stuff, but seemed like a lot was under-salted. Sauce was pretty dang good but I can't do 5 stars, because I can make better ribs at home. Still not a disappointment, just not 5/5. Ambiance is really cool, but they should crank the music up a bit so you can at least hear it.
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Rosabel L.

Yelp
We are first timers! Went about 2-3 weeks ago for lunch. We don't usually go to the east valley because it is out of our way, but DEFINITELY worth it! We also made it coffee day too because one of favorite coffee places out here is across the street. I am originally from Texas, so I appreciate good Texas style bbq. My favorite in Phoenix is Little Miss Bbq but now these two are tied for my favorite! I loooooved! Brisket is important to me when it comes to Texas style and they NAILED it! We don't usually have everything on the menu lol but when we are trying a new bbq place we go to town and sample almost everything. The parking lot was full when we went but not a very big parking lot to begin with. The outside is cute, and reminds me of decor from Texas . I love the whole if Texas had a baby with Arizona frames lol Perfect description. The line wasn't terribly long and was all shaded. The line moved fast too. So what did we have? For sides: Lala's pinto beans, aunt Susan's corn casserole, and Mac n cheese. From that order from left to right was our fave. Beans were the fave and made well with plenty of flavor. The corn casserole was surprisingly good! Didn't know what to expect since I don't have much of that but it was tasty. The Mac n cheese is where it failed for me. Dry-ish and lacking flavor or umppph. Oh and for me I always have pickles and jalapeños, both good. Next onto the meats: start from the good to the least fave. Brisket, EXCELLENT! Moist and fatty in the good way. The bark was delicious and not extra spiced up. Had the basics and that's all I wanted. The jalapeño cheddar sausage was delicious. Not too cheesy where it became too gooey to eat and not a lot of jalapeño. Good blend of everything. The chimichurri beef rib alone was amazing! So tender and moist! The bark was excellent on it too. The chimichurri alone was great. No need to add to the beef rib, I'm glad it came on the side, however the chimichurri would go great with Argentina steak or steak tacos. The turkey, on the pic looks dry lol but it's NOT! It's moist , flavorful and tasty. Finally the piece I didn't like , pulled pork. It was moist, however had a horrible after taste. My boyfriend couldn't taste it and found it acceptable but I couldn't bear more than one bite. Overall though super impressed with the meat game! The most important was nailing that brisket and they did! I'm in loooove! I'll be going back when I'm in that area. We did take home a pecan pie ! Which was amazing! Hit the spot! Service was great! Everyone was friendly. There is limited seating indoors. They do have shade and misters but if you are here in the summer it's still too hot to sit outside, so hopefully you find indoor seating. I think eating here for the colder months is gonna be amazing! Definitely am happy they are here! I miss good Texas style bbq and they did a spectacular job on representing Texas style bbq. Please come check them out! You will not be disappointed.
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Donna B.

Yelp
The food is excellent! We got some brisket and some sausages with jalapeño and cheese and oh my gosh, such good food. We love the corn casserole. The banana pudding is very good as well. I was really impressed with the coleslaw. It was light and refreshing what a wonderful place to eat highly recommend we ordered online and went to pick up so nice not to have to wait in the line but wow, they're busy for a reason
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Lacy K.

Yelp
Caldwell County Barbecue is Texas style barbecue with meats smoked over mesquite and pecan. Choose from brisket, turkey, pulled pork, and sausage. Order by the pound or as sliders. Every order comes with pickles, jalapeños, onion, and white bread. Sides include potato salad, mac & cheese, slaw, beans, or green salad We ordered family style for 4 (it easily fed 3 adults and 2 kids with leftovers to spare). We had a metal tray covered in brisket, turkey, pulled pork, and jalapeno cheddar sausage shopping with Mac & cheese, corn pudding, and sliced white bread. We grabbed our tray, canned ciders, napkins, plastic ware, and BBQ sauce and headed outside for a picnic table on the patio
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MJ C.

Yelp
Took my family from out of town here when they came to visit! We went to the location in Pecan lake and it was wonderful. It's a go to spot for families, especially those that have kids, but we came here mainly for their bbq joint. The bbq was good- tender, savory and full of flavor. I have tried real Texas bbq back when I went to Austin so nothing compares to that bbq, still my forever favorite - but this did suffice. Family was happy and full so all good. It's one of the only few options we got here in Arizona so can't complain. But go try it for yourself, should not be disappointed.
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Kalani S.

Yelp
First of all, who doesn't like barbecue and I could definitely never ever in my life via vegetarian or vegan because of Caldwell's. Now that's out of the way let's continue. I enjoyed this place because it truly felt like a barbecue place. The outdoor seating was amazing. You could see everything right there being cooked. They chopped it up in front of you which was like dinner and a show. They gave out free samples as you're waiting in line to try the brisket and it just made my mouth water that much more. OK now let's get to the meat and bones. Literally, I had to beef ribs and there's not too many barbecue places that will do beef ribs so this has become near the top of the list of every place I go. It was cooked to perfection. Had a great bar and char on the outside that kept everything nice and juicy on the inside. Flavoring was right on point. You could not deny that it almost didn't even need barbecue sauce. I just did the barbecue sauce because it was there. So definitely get the beef ribs worth the trip worth the drive worth the money just outright worth it. And then I got some corn. I don't know what it was something corn in a casserole I guess but that was flavor town and stealing Guy Fieri's words so yes. I guess I've given this a pretty long enough review but I will definitely say this hunger Hawaiian will go back many many times just for the beef ribs and I might splurge and get the sausage which was delicious. The brisket was flavorful and if I'm doing barbecue sorry I don't do chicken so go to someone else's review for that
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Jay M.

Yelp
My favorite BBQ joint in all of AZ. I won't lie, I love jalapeño bucks but it's the brisket sammich and brisket burrito so limited menu. This place is a favorite for all of their meats. Can't go wrong with the baked potato, the brisket is to die for. Corn casserole is a dessert so eat that first! Now they have burnt ends with were very very tasty my friends. You know my 2 most favorite BBQ joints in AZ so check them both out and se for yourself!!
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Nate P.

Yelp
This is a walk up and order cafeteria style line. I've tried everything and it is all insanely good. So good I honestly can't recommend one dish over another but I will share my go to's. I always get either the pulled pork or brisket sandwich. For sides the corn casserole is my favorite along with the Lemon Poppy Seed Cole slaw. I love all their sauces so I tend to use all three and rotate them on my sandwich/meal. It's open seating but I recommend sitting outside (weather permitting) as the patio is a big ole' open area and you are in full view of the smokers which are a site to behold. The staff are some of the friendliest in the valley and even if the line is long the wait is short as the staff are a well oiled machine. Can't wait until my next visit!!
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G D.

Yelp
Caldwell is by far one of the best bbq spots we have ever been too and we have been to Dallas, TX before. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful and the food is next level. We order the family of 4 combo and our boys devour the pulled pork. Be sure to order the Mac and cheese as it's probably the best I've ever had. My husband loves the corn casserole and our kids love getting a slice of bread and baked beans. The restaurant is decorated very western and is a great place for couples, families and singles. There are hand washing stations, 3 incredible sauces to choose from and lots of paper plates for sharing meals. We love how we all leave there feeling full and everyone has something they like. We look forward to trying the pecan pie and banana pudding next time we go but we stuffed our faces too much to try last time. This was our 3rd visit and our family already wants to make this a weekly spot. Go on a weeknight to avoid long lines. We don't have any food pics because we literally dove right in :)
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Jenn K.

Yelp
I love this place , went back again for my daughter's birthday dinner . She had her choices and that what she wanted . I had passed by this place forever and never gave it a second thought. Boy I was bummed when I finally decided to stop in after all these years going to " the other place" . They are super nice and will let you sample stuff before you choose . I love getting the turkey and the brisket . Last night they had the beef rib with chimmichurri sauce ., braised in tallow ... it was like butter pulling it off the bone . The staff is always nice , food is consistently good
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Mark A.

Yelp
Three of us came down here for my 68th birthday. We had the ribs iandthe brisket which were both excellent. RibMaster Steve did an excellent job on both the ribs and the brisket Moses came in and it took care of us since it was my birthday we didn't get the $15 discount on it but because I forgot to ask for it, he gave me a cookie and banana pudding, which was delicious. The corn cornbread casserole is awesome and the mac & cheese are right up there too. I love what the new place looks like with standing outside in line to sit next to the tables will be back. There's the remnants of what we ended up eating one rack of ribs gone a chunk of brisket gone, and all the sides gone
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Shelby S.

Yelp
Amazing spot for barbecue in Arizona. The menu is perfectly condensed to offer the best barbecue combos. We ordered the pulled pork with lemon, poppyseed coleslaw, and corn casserole. You also have the option of complementary pickles, onions, and/or jalapeños. The restaurant offers plenty of seating inside and outside. Each patio table has an umbrella to shield the sun as well, which is super nice. Each table also comes equipped with their three barbecue sauces... Gold, house, and a spicy sweet house sauce. The staff are always extremely friendly and the restaurant is very clean. Highly recommend Caldwell's!!
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Alan B.

Yelp
It's been about a year since my last visit, and I must say, it's a complete 180 from before! I feel I owed this place a new review! The gentleman cutting the meats wasn't squeezing out all the juices this time, which was a huge plus in my book! I got the El General Patton sandwich again, and for $20 it's still a heck of a lot of meat, on a very tasty bun! It also includes a side coleslaw, which tasted amazing. Not sure what's in it, but I loved the taste. I also bought a banana pudding, but I was so stuffed, I took it home instead. I like that people know ahead of time to just park on the street and walk over. My new fav bbq place around town!

Sally K.

Yelp
I live in Florida and came to Arizona to visit family and I was totally impressed with this restaurant, what a gem! The food selection was a wide variety and the taste and quality was very impressive! I especially enjoyed the ambiance as I felt like a valued customer and I certainly will go back here to eat the next time I am in town!
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Kitty T.

Yelp
Me and my significant other drive 40 minutes just to eat this amazing bbq. Best BBQ spot in AZ. The vibe is very rustic and has all the working smokers in the outside patio. They have beautiful hanging lights and cute wooden benches. Service is amazing. Everyone working there is happy to be there and even lets you try some of the fresh meat they cooked. The food is to die for. They have juicy baby back ribs and you can choose a variety of sauces to pour into the meats. They also have the best potato salad. 10/10 always making a trip to Mesa for the top quality.
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Scarlett M.

Yelp
So I'm not even a huge BBQ fan but wow this place has a doing the Lord's work. They gave me a little sample of brisket while I waited for my order. Staff were very friendly and offered suggestions of what to try. I got the el general sandwich to get a good variety of what they have to offer. So so good, I'd definitely just get the brisket next time as that was my favorite. The Mac and cheese is also super yummy. I love that there are three kinds of bbq sauce to choose from. My favorite was the az gold and house. Cute interior with more outdoor seating. Parking can be alittle squishy in the back so I just parked across the street.
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Juli R.

Yelp
This bbq place in the city where are kids live is amazing. The ambiance is super cute and accommodating for small groups to big crowds. While we were waiting for our kids, a nice young man- who worked there- was carrying a high chair inside and we told him we would take it from him. He then asked if we needed anything while we waited and also gave us recommendations! Everyone was so NICE! The order was a combo of a baked potato w/ bbq sour cream and brisket, a brisket sandwich, and three El General Patton's. We also literally ordered every side and a banana pudding for dessert. The corn pudding was the winner but everything else was fabulous too! Will definitely come back when visiting the kids again!!!

Hina K.

Yelp
The food was fantastic! My brother said the food was better than Terry Black's in Texas! The service was fantastic! The staff was so friendly and really gave it a family feel ambiance! Pit Master Steve was awesome! He was so friendly and funny and explained how some of the food was prepped and cooked. Impressive! Will definitely come back and recommend!

Denise R.

Yelp
AMAZINGGG 10/10 the food is always so so soo good & everyone is always so friendly If you're going you have to try the brisket, pork ribs and the loaded potato such a must and is always so good! Love the atmosphere!
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Evelyn O.

Yelp
omg best bbq ever!! I've tried it a couple times (both establishments) and it's really good. Birria Tacos are exquisite too!
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Elizabeth U.

Yelp
Great experience at Caldwell County! Delicious food and wonderful ambiance. Already looking forward to returning.

Brian S.

Yelp
Huge place but the line moved fast and good choice of sides and bbq. Plenty of seating inside and outside. Surrounded by many entertainment opportunities.

Diana J.

Yelp
10/10 food and service. Workers were friendly and inviting--I will definitely come again!

Shelle B.

Yelp
Experience was unbelievable! Food was fantastic! I am used to having barbecue from Texas and this was right up there in quality! Highly recommend for not only the food but great family entertainment with so many activities on site and just a really cool vibe!. I will say that the menu was very confusing, but the staff was very helpful when we went in to order they made it much easier for us! And well worth the confusion once we got our food we couldn't put it down. It was that good. We will definitely be coming back.
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Joan R.

Yelp
Ben, the GM really knows how to make someone feel at home. He approached our table a few times. The food was delicious. I always get the brisket. Never disappoints. This location is more cozy, efficient and friendly. Will be back.
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Ciara B.

Yelp
Our go to bbq place when we want to get food to go and bring to our parents house for bbq and swim nights. The sauce is very good and the pulled pork is amazing. Staff is friendly and helpful too.