03/08/07

Great family rib joint

by screech_bw

This place says Chicago style in the name but it reminded me a lot of Mississippi soul food barbecue. I've never heard of Chicago style barbecue. I asked the man at the front if it was going to be any good, given that I'm from St. Louis. He laughed and told me I would have to decide. It's good. I had the rib tips and hot link sandwich. I was pleased to see that it didn't come in sandwich form but instead came like it should as a big bowl of meat and sauce with a couple pieces of bread. The sauce is a little thin but it does very well and has a very slight amount of heat that complements the meat very well. This place ain't Famous Dave's. It's not a chain or suburban barbecue. It's very good and the place is simple but very clean and very friendly. The ribs are in a warmer right up front and it's very hard to watch them being turned while you wait for your order. I went around 1pm on a Thursday and the place was nearly empty but the ones who were there were repeat customers. When you think soul food rib joint, this is the place. I've been around to most of the well known barbecue joints including Arthur Bryant's, KC Masterpiece, Rendezvous, Corky's, and Jim Neely's Interstate. A & J's is worthy of mention in that crowd with the good Memphis places. BTW Bryant's and KCM aren't all that great. I'll be back to try the ribs next time.

• Pros: Fast service, good selection, good conversation
• Cons: No self serve soda fountain, no lemonade

11/19/06

Best BBQ in AZ

by lt2

11/17/06 app 5:00 PM

This place is clean, was relatively empty and the service was great!

Excellent pulled barbeque brisket....excellent barbeque ribs! Not "fall off the bone" but not a lot of work to get it off the bone, either. Sauce rather thin, but that's the style!

Beans & potato salad good; slaw too sweet & salad like from a bag.

• Pros: Great BBQ
• Cons: Sides OK

10/13/06

Best barbecue in Arizona, Wonderful family atmosphere, excellant customer service

by glitta

My husband & I enjoyed a slab of ribs, with coleslaw, and french fries. The food is excellant. I met the owner he is very customer focused. A & J is clean, great environment for family and friends. For me it felt like I was at home.

• Pros: Great food, friendly service, etc the list can keep going..............
• Cons: There are no cons