Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria logo

Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria

Barbecue restaurant · Peoria, AZ · reviewed since 2026

How the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 64%72+45.7Reliability 28%71+20Replies to reviews 8%100+8.2Experts Score= 74Not enough data for value; its weight is shared by the others.Grade B: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.74SCORE
BGradeLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#84 of 121 caterersPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 31%
4.7 ★★★★★ 642 Google reviews · 22 photos
87%five-star reviews
4.72★last 12 monthsAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
4.4%1–2★ in 2 yearsShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
98%reviews answered by the owner
Nov 2026latest review

Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria at a glance

Google reviewers rate Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria 4.7 out of 5 based on 642 reviews, with the owner responding to 98% of feedback. Customers frequently praise the wood-smoked brisket, burnt ends, and sides like corn casserole and chili, noting friendly staff who assist with menu explanations and sampling. Recurring criticisms in lower-rated reviews focus on high prices for small portions and instances of food being served cold or lacking distinct seasoning.

  • Google rating: 4.7 out of 5 from 642 reviews (87% five-star).
  • Reviews on this page: 642 Google reviews (506 with written comments, 118 with photos).
  • Owner responses: the business replied to 98% of reviews.
  • Most recent review: November 1, 2026.
  • Service: Caterer serving Peoria, Arizona.

Data from Google, last updated November 1, 2026.

Score profile vs other caterers

Score per factor (100 = best)Each factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: momentum and replies to reviews; weakest: reliability.

Satisfaction72Reliability71Craft & service–Value–Momentum100Replies to reviews100Satisfaction: 72 (median 87)Reliability: 71 (median 87)Momentum: 100 (median 100)Replies to reviews: 100 (median 35)
This companyCaterers median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactionSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria: 72/100 on this factor. Category median: 87.B
72
ReliabilityReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria: 71/100 on this factor. Category median: 87.B
71
Craft & serviceCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 99.–
–
ValueValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 95.–
–
MomentumMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
Replies to reviewsReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Caldwell County BBQ at Peoria: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 35.A
100

Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.

Star ratings

642 Google reviews we collected

  • 5 stars55687%
  • 4 stars396%
  • 3 stars193%
  • 2 stars122%
  • 1 star162%

Praise vs complaints

Phrases our text analysis found in 506 written reviews

  • Praise39392%
  • Complaints368%

Topic share

How often each topic comes up in the written reviews

  • Staff & attitude18944%
  • Would recommend7016%
  • Quality & results6515%
  • Price & value5112%
  • Speed & response246%
  • Communication153%
  • Honesty & trust153%

What customers talk about

We read 506 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.

  • “The two bartenders, Lexi and Sunni are genuinely kind, welcoming, and so easy to talk to that they made me feel like I had instantly made two new friends.”
    “Between the rude staff and the subpar food, we will not be returning.”
  • “As a Texan, I highly recommend Caldwell County BBQ and will definitely be back.”
    “Food was cold ordered the family meal I don’t think it’s to much to ask for hot food sides were ok meat seams to be left out will not return”
  • “I would also like to recognize Moses, the manager, for doing an outstanding job.”
    “It was not the worst, not the best, but I’m not sure they have enough to go back.”
  • “The pricing is fair, just what you’d expect to pay.”
    “The food here is very good, but it is so expensive.”
  • “…with the try style service but liked and enjoyed it food service was fast and because it happens right as you say it less room for error.…”
    “Caldwell County BBQ is an award-winning, Texas-style barbecue joint featuring 20-hour slow cooked brisket.”
  • “Took the time to explain the menu and ordering sequence.”
    “It will be the side dish never ignored coming in to eat.”
  • “As someone who is originally from Texas and knows what authentic barbecue should taste like, I can honestly say Caldwell County BBQ is the real deal.”

People customers mention

  • Mac 49 reviews
  • Brisket 19 reviews
  • Moses 13 reviews
  • Patton 11 reviews
  • Blake 10 reviews
  • Turkey 8 reviews

praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.

Recent reviews

KellyLocal Guide · 24 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 10 hours ago★★★★★

Very good bbq and burnt ends. Chili has just enough fire and the corn casserole? Delish! Give this place a try

MatthewLocal Guide · 94 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 10 hours ago★★★★★

Excellent BBQ place! Service was super friendly and on top of things. Try their brisket with half fatty half lean, it's delicious with their house bbq sauce!

Shelly12 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 days ago★★★★★

My husband planned my birthday dinner here with our family. The food was awesome, service was great. We will definitely be back.

ChrisLocal Guide · 10 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 4 days ago★★★★★

I just went there for lunch today. Had the brisket and a side of bread. The meat was juicy and delicious. The server at the counter also had us sample the pulled pork which was great as well.

RickLocal Guide · 45 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 5 days ago★★★★★

Great BBQ Brisket, Turkey, coleslaw and Chili. Didn't try anything else. Friendly and courteous staff. Our first time there. Took the time to explain the menu and ordering sequence.

JoeLocal Guide · 202 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a week ago★★★★★

Love this place! The brisket is the best I have ever had. Definitely recommend it!!

Photos

Customer reviews

4.7 ★★★★★ 642 reviews on Google · rating breakdown

Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).

Team members customers mention
Filter by topic — each topic is highlighted in the reviews in the same color
Kelly WatsonLocal Guide · 24 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Kelly has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Very good bbq and burnt ends. Chili has just enough fire and the corn casserole? Delish! Give this place a try

  • Order type: Dine in
  • Meal type: Dinner
  • Price per person: $20–30
  • Reservation: Reservations not required
Matthew MasonLocal Guide · 94 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Matthew has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Excellent BBQ place! Service was super friendly and on top of things. Try their brisket with half fatty half lean, it's delicious with their house bbq sauce!

  • Order type: Dine in
  • Meal type: Dinner
  • Price per person: $10–20
Leandro Fuscaldi AlbergariaLocal Guide · 60 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Leandro has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Best food in USA.

  • Order type: Dine in
  • Meal type: Lunch
  • Price per person: $30–40
Kevin UilkieLocal Guide · 50 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Kevin has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

great food

  • Order type: Take out
Response from the owner · a day ago

Thank you Kevin! So glad you love our food!

Craft Cart2goLocal Guide · 64 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Craft has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

As someone who is originally from Texas and knows what authentic barbecue should taste like, I can honestly say Caldwell County BBQ is the real deal. The moment you arrive, you'll see the enormous smokers outside, giving you a glimpse of the serious commitment they have to true wood-smoked barbecue. The smoky aroma alone lets you know you're in for something special. The meat is flavorful, tender, and packed with that authentic smoky taste that great barbecue should have. What made this visit even more memorable was the incredible service. The two bartenders, Lexi and Sunni are genuinely kind, welcoming, and so easy to talk to that they made me feel like I had instantly made two new friends. Their warmth and hospitality added so much to the overall experience. I would also like to recognize Moses, the manager, for doing an outstanding job. He is professional, attentive, and clearly takes pride in ensuring every guest has a wonderful experience. Great management is reflected throughout the restaurant, and it shows. Excellent food, exceptional service, and authentic barbecue. As a Texan, I highly recommend Caldwell County BBQ and will definitely be back. Update: back in Arizona and they added brira tacos which are delicious so try one!

  • Meal type: Lunch
  • Price per person: $20–30
  • Group size: 1 person, 2 people, 3-4 people
  • Seating type: Indoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Response from the owner · 4 months ago

Thank you so much for your kind words. It means a lot to us! If Texas and Arizona had a baby, it would be Caldwell County BBQ!

Shelly M12 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Shelly has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

My husband planned my birthday dinner here with our family. The food was awesome, service was great. We will definitely be back.

Response from the owner · a day ago

Thank you so much Shelly! We're so glad we got to celebrate your birthday and provide you with great food and service! Hope to serve you again soon!

H G (Hootie)Local Guide · 98 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews H has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Food was awesome. Service was great. Would definitely recommend.

  • Order type: Dine in
  • Meal type: Lunch
  • Price per person: $20–30
  • Reservation: Walk-ins only
Response from the owner · a day ago

Thank you for stopping by! We are happy to hear that you loved our food and service!

Chris WilliamsLocal Guide · 10 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Chris has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

I just went there for lunch today. Had the brisket and a side of bread. The meat was juicy and delicious. The server at the counter also had us sample the pulled pork which was great as well.

  • Order type: Dine in
  • Meal type: Lunch
  • Price per person: $10–20
Response from the owner · 3 days ago

Gotta love the classic smoked brisket! Recommendation for your next visit, our Mac n Cheese compliments the brisket really well. See you next time!

Rick WilsonLocal Guide · 45 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Rick has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Great BBQ Brisket, Turkey, coleslaw and Chili. Didn't try anything else. Friendly and courteous staff. Our first time there. Took the time to explain the menu and ordering sequence.

  • Order type: Dine in
  • Meal type: Dinner
  • Price per person: $20–30
  • Reservation: Reservations not required
Response from the owner · 3 days ago

So glad to hear the staff was friendly and helpful, that's exactly what we aim for! We have plenty more things to try on the menu for your next visit. See you again soon!

Joe SansoneLocal Guide · 202 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Joe has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Love this place! The brisket is the best I have ever had. Definitely recommend it!!

  • Meal type: Lunch
  • Price per person: $20–30
  • Noise level: Moderate noise
  • Seating type: Indoor dining area
  • Parking space: Plenty of parking
  • Parking options: Free parking lot
Response from the owner · 3 days ago

Thanks for the compliment Joe, we do our best to make authentic Texas Brisket with an Arizona twist.

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Business details