This weekend Americans from coast to coast will get an inexplicable craving for smoked meats and backyard barbecue. The only problem is that not all of us are grill masters or, let's face it, brave enough to light up a grill when it's 112 degrees outside.
Don't let your lack of skill or enthusiasm about sweating over an open flame cut into your Independence Day fun. Instead just leave the hard work to the professionals and exercise your god given right to order take out.
Here are six places around town that will be more than happy to prepare a July 4th barbecue feast so you don't have to touch a single dish.
See also: Little Miss BBQ: The Way Meat Was Meant to Be Cooked
Bootleggers
Both locations of Bootleggers, in Phoenix and Scottsdale, now offer the Boot Bird To Go program that includes a whole roasted chicken with toritllas and slaw for $12. The restaurant also serves its smoked meats by the pound including moist brisket for $21/lb., a full rack of St. Louis ribs for $33, pork shoulder for $18/lb, and turkey breast for $18/lb. Orders for Friday, July 4 should be placed in advance if possible.
Bryan's Black Mountain Barbecue
Bryan's Black Mountain Barbcue, a Cave Creek institution, offers meats and sides in sizes fit for a real feast. Chef Bryan Dooley's pulled pork is available for $12.95/lb, while beef brisket (chopped or sliced) will cost $14.95/lb. You can also pick up a whole barbecued chicken for $14.95 and bulk sides including cole slaw, baked potato salad, and sweet pickled jalepenos for $7.95/quart. Smaller orders can be placed same day, while bigger orders should be placed in advance. Orders can either be picked up hot, or cold with reheat instructions.
Pork on a Fork
Bulk smoked meats at Phoenix's Pork on a Fork are simple: pulled pork for $12/lb. or beef brisket for $20/lb. But Pork on a Fork also offers a few interesting options such as smoked wings, 50 wings for $49.99, and ribs available by the tray, 50 bones for $92.99. Smaller orders for about 5 lbs or less can generally be placed same day. For 10 or more people, catering packages are also available. Minimum of 24 advance notice needed.
Joe's Real BBQ
Joe Johnston does excellent 'cue at this Gilbert restaurant, which offers all of its smoked meats by the pound. Joe's Real BBQ brisket and chopped beef will cost you $15.49/lb., while a slab of 12 St. Louis ribs will set you back $17.99. All other meats -- including Turkey Jalapeno Sausage, Turkey Breast, and Pit Ham -- cost $13.49/lb. Homemade sides such as Mac N' Cheese and BBQ Pit Beans are available for $7.99/quart. Pick up orders can be placed on the same day, though larger orders (or orders on holidays) should be put in a day in advance.
Bobby-Q
When it comes to take-out barbecue Bobby-Q in Phoenix makes it simple. There's a separate menu with options such as a slab of Q's Famous St. Louis Style ribs for $22/slab, Smoked Pulled Pork for $11/lb, and Beef Brisket for $13/lb. Sides including mashed potatoes, pecan cole slaw, and barbecued beans can be purchased by the half gallon for $12. Call ahead or day of for pick up orders.
Texas BBQ House
The restaurant will be closed on July 4, but if you want Texas BBQ House at your Independence Day get-together you can call ahead and pick up your order in advance. Moist brisket costs $8.09/half pound and spare ribs cost $6.49/half pound -- about 2-3 bones. For parties of 10 or more, the restaurant offers party packs starting at $12/per person that includes three types of meat, three sides, sliced white bread, sauce, and more. Party pack orders need to be placed by the end of the day today for Friday, July 4.
