CALDWELL COUNTY BBQ? HOLY COW

This is Jimmy in the Caldwell County BBQ pit in Gilbert, Arizona.

I was waiting for the occupied Men’s Room when we struck up a chat that was more historical than most history classes.

He’s been running the show for a few years with the huge smokers, about five of them going full blast.

On a hot desert day he said it might get to 130 degrees in there.

Extra heat on a hot day seemed normal.

While it was the best BBQ I’ve ever had in front of me, the operations in Caldwell felt inspiring.

Luckily our guide knew the ropes. (Hey Bridgette)

There’s no Please Wait To Be Seated sign and a host to take you in.

Show up, park, and find a place at the end of the line waiting for their magical counter moment.

This is the view from inside. The same menu is on the waiting line area, and it’s a fast line.

You stand in front of of glass counter with six guys taking orders and moving the line along to the cash register.

Tell the guys what you want, whether it’s eating in or to-go, and move along.

Once you pick up the drinks you can sit inside, or out.

These are the railroad tanker looking smokers with the light canopy over picnic tables in the background for outdoor dining.

Industrial sized smokers for industrial strength food are a testament to the people they bring in.

The operation is too good to be true.

Know Your Audience

Caldwell County knows their audience and keep updating their approach with staff tours of other BBQ pits.

Update, on schedule, and better than anything you’ll find in 49 states.

What’s the missing state? Texas, the gold standard of BBQ.

The best in Texas? I had to ask.

Jimmy said the Burnt Bean is Texas’ best.

I’m in there wondering how anything could be better than Caldwell.

PS:

If I never go back to Texas, this is my #1 place.

PSS:

And if I do go to Texas? Caldwell’s is still my #1.