Popular Valley barbecue spot closes restaurant after 6 months

Word of Mouth Grill, a popular Tempe barbecue joint, expanded in April, opening its second location in Ahwatukee. But now, after just over six months, the restaurant has closed.

Word of Mouth is the brainchild of pitmaster Demetrious Makel and his wife Jacque Gomez-Makel. The business started as a roving smoker that catered for weddings, festivals and other events. In 2019, the couple opened their first brick-and-mortar location in Tempe on the southwest corner of Elliot Road and McClintock Drive.

The bar and restaurant became renowned for its brisket and pulled pork, along with its flavors. Makel makes his own house-made dry rubs and eight different barbecue sauces ranging from creamy Alabama white to spicy habanero. The restaurant is one of our top 10 spots for barbecue in the Valley.

The second location opened this spring on the northeast corner of Ray Road and 48th Street. More of a fast-casual eatery, the new spot was designed for customers on the go. The menu differed slightly from the original, offering panini sandwiches in place of fried wings.

While no reasoning was provided, Word of Mouth’s website has been updated to reflect the recent closure of its Ahwatukee location.

“While that location ultimately closed its doors after six months, the family remains grateful for the experience and the support they received from both communities,” the site says.