It was discouraging to see Q to U Barbecue next to Ray’s Pizza close as a victim of the Covid-19 pandemic

A worthy establishment has taken its place, however, in Phat Turtle BBQ, located at Cave Creek and Desert Willow near Barro’s Pizza.

Owned and operated by a Kansas City couple who live in Tatum Ranch, the restaurant and bar has been opened for close to a year and has been garnering rave reviews from the locals.

Occupying a space that has housed Brothers’ Pizza and at least one breakfast restaurant, Phat Turtle has a typically casual barbecue atmosphere, with an attached barbecue goods shop with sauces, rubs, pellets, grills, etc. and a smaller bar with about a half dozen stools.

 Plans reportedly are to expand into the attached empty unit to the south, creating a full-sized saloon for the restaurant.

Phat Turtle features live music on Friday nights at happy hour/early evening, have online trivia and poker, as well as Golden Tee and Deer Hunter, two popular video games.

Food naturally is the star of the show so choose from slowly hardwood smoked ribs, chicken, brisket, or smoked sausage, and make sure to save room for the sides!