After years of dining out in Arizona while I lived here, Joe's BBQ is my one required stop every time I'm back to visit. I grew up in Gilbert so I've seen Downtown Gilbert grow a lot from almost nothing to the hot spot it is now but Joe's has always been at the center of the action (and for good reason). You can't get within half a mile of this place without smelling it first! My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
All the food here is incredible and that's what keeps me (and the line of people usually stretching out the door) coming back. I love the ribs when I'm feeling up to it and don't mind getting a little messy but my go-to is a BBQ sandwich with either the pulled pork or chopped brisket. The meats are all pecan-smoked and perfectly tender and the chopped brisket is even cooked in their signature BBQ sauce so the flavor is in every bite. They also have a station where you can get more BBQ sauce or Spicy BBQ sauce and pour it all over everything (I prefer to mix the two so it's got a kick but it's not too spicy).
In addition to the all the delicious meat options, the sides are a standout as well. The mac and cheese is my all-time favorite, with plenty of gooey cheesiness (totally a word) and a flaky topping, and the cornbread with honey butter really hits the spot. The cheesy potatoes and BBQ pit beans are very popular as well! As far as drinks go, Joe's makes their own homemade root beer and lemonade which are both a refreshing complement to the smoky barbecue. And if you have room, go for the root beer cake or chocolate chip cookie: both desserts are a simply amazing way to end the meal.
Not only is their food unparalleled around here but the customer service is second to none and they even give free meals on your birthday, in addition to a few days every year where they serve free lunches to everyone. It's cafeteria-style so you wait in line, get your drink, then order your food and they give it to you before paying at the cash register. Even though the line can get long, trust me...the wait will be torturous but so so worth it!