The pulled pork is excellent. The Ribs have been hit or miss. Sometimes they are fall of the bone wonderful and other times they are tough. The prices are a bit high for the area. Ambience is nice. Wait staff is good.
(3)
Joe P.
I had head a lot of great reviews for this place. But all I can say that my visit there was disappointing. I ordered the two meat combo (brisket and pulled pork shoulder). The brisket was bland, no taste to it whatsoever. The pulled pork was a slight bit better, but it was drowned in some kind of sauce. The sides of corn along with Mac and cheese did nothing to enhance the meal. The corn tasted like it was out of a can. While the Mac and cheese tasted like it was made from velveeta. I really thought from the reviews I heard that this would be awesome. But the food fell short of being okay.
(2)
Jerry M.
First timer! Great food and Great service, what more could you ask for? Definitely recommend the Belt Buster, if you're feeling daring. Also loved the pull pork, sliced brisket and ribs. Waitress was very polite and on top of things, keeping or drinks full at ALL times. Bbq sauce is good, more pepper flavor than sweet. Recommend giving it a shot!
(4)
Elizabeth C.
Don't bother! Not worth the trip. The food is consistently horrible and the sides are all carbs unless you want to pay more for a salad that is nothing to write home about. Don't bother asking for any adjustments or complaining, the owner is very curt and nasty.
(1)
Matt M.
We live in the area & frequent Bubbs quite a lot. Good BBQ food, love the pulled pork & burnt ends & pieces. Also enjoy the fish fry on Friday. The smoke flavor is great and the house made mustard bbq sauce & bubbs sauce are some of our family favorites!
(5)
Kilbey K.
I've only had the food here a couple of times but have had an assortment of items to say that the food is delicious. Stopped in the first time to watch a Seahawks game and sat at the bar. Brittany was the bartender and was friendly, courteous and more than competent. I will definitely be going back to watch some football and have some great food.
(5)
Jess H.
A great variety of different smoked meats (which are smoked overnight on premises). Everything is tasty and fresh. Friendly and fast service. They have a lot of TV's and are always willing to find your game if your team is playing. On Sunday mornings they serve breakfast (try the Bubb's bagel or breakfast cheeseburger). Great place for Friday fish fry or prime rib on Saturday nights.
(5)
Keith Z.
The brisket and pulled pork were old and dry. Chicken was dry. Ribs were tender. Service was very good.
(3)
Tracy P.
I lived in Texas for a few years and I've had my share of good and bad BBQ and this place passed my "Texas" test for both food and decor. I'll definitely go back. Excellent brisket & pulled pork. Pretty good links and sides. My only complaint is that I'd like to have a sweeter, smoky sauce but their sauces were pretty good.
(4)
Daniel K.
If you have been to almost any bbq place then you will be familiar with the style. The atmosphere of this place is traditional "BBQ" western ranch house style. We stopped here on our way to the Ford dealership and it was a pleasant surprise. So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the Tucson area. We liked it so much we went again a week later when we came up to buy the car from the dealer in Oracle and we brought friends the second time. If it was closer to Tucson then we would go more often. Food: this is why we eat out at places like this, to enjoy juicy meats and tasty sauces. This place hits the head of the nail. Both times I ordered the three meat platter and I have to say that their chicken is wonderful. The private label sauce is one of the best that I have had. My only regret is that I didn't buy a bottle to bring home. Guess we will have to go again :-)
(4)
Mike F.
Excellent Friday Fish Fry and "Burnt Ends". The "ends" give you an idea of how good the BBQ is, but the Fish Fry is the best I have had outside of Wisconsin. I have had both the Cod and Walleye. Excellent Service, need Miller Lite on tap, full beer selection is good, lots of TVs to catch up on games.
(5)
John D.
Bubb's Grub is a surprisingly stellar BBQ place. I say surprisingly because although the plates are generous, the side dishes that are included with the meals are much less interesting than the BBQ itself. The fries are just Ortega fries that are cooked in-house, the red potatoes are just two simple boiled potatoes, and the mac and cheese tastes like squeeze cheese. These sides really aren't bad, they just taste more like something you could make at home rather than something prepared in a restaurant. But the BBQ is amazing. One bite of my brisket sandwich and I knew I was coming back to Bubb's Grub. The housemade BBQ sauce is perfect (and on sale at the restaurant) and the preparation of the meat is nothing short of fantastic. I can't say enough about how good this BBQ is. This is easily the best BBQ I've had in Tucson (or Catalina to be specific) so far.
(4)
Mary S.
I called for a to-go order at 8:30 on a Saturday night. I was informed by the very rude lady who answered the phone that the kitchen was closing in a few minutes. I asked her if that was a no then. She asked how far away i was. I replied less than 10 Minutes. She replied no the kitchen is closed... I believe that the hours posted say closed at 9pm. I have frequented Bubb's Grub on many occasions. The food is excellent, but after this i will not be returning. The key to running a successful business is good service.
(1)
Richard h.
We had high hopes for this place, but were disappointed. Menu items: Burnt Ends and Pieces were basically chunks of fat. Brisket was not tender and very fatty, more so than any brisket we have ever had. Pulled pork was OK but nothing to write home about. All in all the experience was below average. A long way to drive and certainly not worth the World Famous accolade. Wish we have gone to Famous Dave's!
(2)
Larry J.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner. A wide range of menu choices with good service at a reasonable price. BBQ is their specialty but everything is really good. My favorite is their 1/2 lb. Burger.
(4)
John D.
Hand down the best pulled pork I have ever eaten. From the first fork full I knew it was love at first bite. This stuff was porkalicious! I added just a little of the BBQ sauce that Bubb's makes and I was devouring my plate. The BBQ sauce was so good I decided to risk it and bring 2 bottles back home. If you are in Oro Valley / Catalina area this place is a MUST ! Service was polite and efficient.
(5)
Saba B.
Best. Smoked. Andouille. Sausage. Ever...More superlatives come to mind as I relive the decadent taste of Bubb's pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, and pork brisket trio. Nothing is an afterthought here. Even BG's signature BBQ sauce is sweet, spicy, and impossibly rich. I lament that BG's is so far from T-Town, as these guys SMOKE the competition in Southern Arizona. The service is also snappy and thorough and the ambience old school western kitsch. We are definitely coming back for the four-tiered Belly Buster challenge and the Wednesday night all-you-can-eat ribs. Just take a look at the motorized smoker in the back for an idea of how seriously these guys take the art of the grill. Unbeatable!
(5)
Jerry G.
Stopped in here on my way back into town from San Manuel. A riding buddy had suggested it and had been here several times. I got the world famous pulled pork sandwich with beans as my side. The food was very good and the service was great. They had a 3 BBQ sauces - a mild, their house special (a little spicy) and a southern mustard. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the warm apple cinnamon crisp. They used apple pie filling, which was not bad, but it was the fried tortilla shell that disappointed me. I was expected more a traditional apple crisp. I will swing by again some day when I am in the area, but next time I will try something else for dessert.
(4)
jack q.
Delicious pulled pork, ribs and chicken w/decent sides. Loved their sauces The service was pretty good, too, and the prices were pretty much a bargain for the amount of food they give you. Lip-smacking!
(4)
Hugo M.
I am a bit of a BBQ snob after living in the BBQ Mecca for 11 years "Memphis" and I am an avid tender of the smoker myself. This was our first vist here since we moved back to town. The queen and I came in after the dinner crush albeit it still had a sizable crowd still so i dont know how they do service wise under a big dinner rush. Our server was attentive almost to the point of "bird dogging us" He was great. Our dinner was great though The wife ordered salad with fried chicken on it and it was of good size and very fresh. I ordered the two meat plate and i opted for low carb sides though i wanted the other sides badly hehehe. The brisket was very tender and the smoke ring on it was very pronounced and seasoned in a way that compliments the cut of meat. The other meat was pulled pork I will have to revisit that item again for a better review because I think it was suffering from post dinner rush " hurry and get more pork cooked" although it was tasty the smokiness was light and and the seasoning was lacking. Im not saying it was a bad product I just think i need to try again earlier in the evening. all in all its a good atmosphere and good value. Kudos.
(4)
Jeff R.
I arrived early and there were only three people, at one table, in the place. The "manager" or host spent several minutes talking with them while I stood "waiting to be seated". Several employees seemed to notice me, but none took the initiative to ask if I was there to eat. At my "patience has run out point" a server finally came over and took me to a table. She did a good job and the catfish dinner I had was ok. Fish and fries were good. Hush puppies a waste of the calories- hard, luke warm and tasteless. When I left, the "manager" and one of his employees were busy doing something on a dumb phone so I left without suggesting he pay more attention to potential customers. Who knows how many have walked out instead of waiting.
(2)
K M.
Ya know I forgot to review this place a while back, so this is based on a visit from November. Have had BBQ in various spots through the country including the BBQ belt of the south. We were on the far NW side of town, far from our home, and looking for a place to eat and watch a football game and this place was really a surprise, meats, wings, fries. So far the best BBQ I have had in Tucson. Four-and-a-half stars plus 1/2 star for the surprise.
(5)
O G.
So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the area. We liked it so much I stop by when in the area traveling which by the way is over an hour for me The Food: Large selection on menu the pork is excellent, and the brisket is good. I had the brisket twice now and the first time it was better it was little dry this time. Service can be more focus on the customer. So stop and check it out.
(4)
Wendi H.
Best BBQ ever! The brisket, ribs, pulled pork, it's was to die for. And we had the best waitress ever. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives needs to pay this place a visit!
(5)
O G.
So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the area. We liked it so much I stop by when in the area traveling which by the way is over an hour for me The Food: Large selection on menu the pork is excellent, and the brisket is good. I had the brisket twice now and the first time it was better it was little dry this time. Service can be more focus on the customer. So stop and check it out.
(4)
J Marie S.
Stopped by while in the area, anxious to try the Wisconsin cheese curds and some good bbq. The curds were obviously frozen, hard and flavorless. We tried two different 2-meat dinners. Brisket was okay, everything else was mediocre. Side of mac & cheese was like pasta with cheese whiz. Will take a trip a bit further into Oro Valley next time and leave Bubb's in the rear view mirror.
(2)
Tracy S.
If you like BBQ and you are near Catalina a trip to Bubb's Grub would be a place to check out. I will be honest I am not a BBQ expert and have not searched long and hard for the worlds perfect BBQ but the stuff I had the other night with my Bro in Law was pretty tasty. We started the meal with a basket of Tabasco O-Rings which were tasty but nothing out of the ordinary and Cheese Curds which I would definitely pass (I am a cheese curd snob being from WI and these were nothing more to me then mozz stick bites). Then came the BBQ - I got the 3 meat platter and choose Shredded Pork Shoulder, Texas Hot Links and Brisket. All the meats where very tasty and the portions were substantial. I choose to pair them with a mixture of the BBQ sauce available (sorry no names where given to describe so I can't pass that along but my favorite was the yellowish one). The side ideas where a little less to be desired Mac and Cheese (I have had WAY better and Potato Salad. The serves was not bad, not great. It was later in the evening so people were getting there stuff done to get out of there. By the end of the meal the bus girl was more attentive then the waiter but there was never a point I needed something that I didn't get. All in all a good experience. Although this won't be on my list of places to rush back to if I am in the mood for BBQ I would make the trek back. Things to know before you go, the place closes pretty early (for my dining standards) 8 Sun - Thur and 9 on Fri and Sat and the place clears out so if you are thinking about going make sure you are going earlier vs later
(3)
elvin b.
The prime rib special was okay, but pricey for the atmosphere which is stripmallish. Wooden Indians which aren't authentic for the area. Lots of the specials are midwestern barbecue which is rather strange considering you're in the middle of the Southwest. What really bummed me out is that I ordered a Tequila Sunrise and EVERWHERE I have had this drink in Arizona the tecquila has tasted decent even though it has not been top shelf. Maybe its because it was happy hour and they were trying to cut corners? Maybe it's because the owner is from Minnesota? I don't know, buit the stuff tasted like rot gut. I couldn't even drink more than a few sips. Yuck. The waiter should have asked me what was wrong and offered to replace the drink but he didn't, well too bad because his tip reflected that. Oh and I've tasted better fries at Burger King.
(2)
Gretchen B.
Went for the Friday night fish fry. The owner is from WI. If the reviewer from CA had looked around with a shred of wisdom he would have seen WI team gear all over the place along with western stuff. Vince Lombardi meets Tom Mix. The place was very busy but the seating arrangements fair and quick. The bar is a fun place to wait and relax with an adult beverage. The fish fry was first rate. Just out of the fryer, sides good to adequate, portions generous, and priced right. We spend the winter in Tucson and the place is a decent replica of a WI Northwoods supper club. Will try the other grup at a future visit. If you miss the BTN they have it on multiple tv's.
(4)
Sharon C.
We went on a Friday night a little later around 7:30. Service was terrible. The waitress acted like she had a date waiting and couldn't get us out fast enough. I ordered soup while the other 3 ordered meals. After ordering she came back and said "the kitchen was closing and there was no more soup. I asked about chili - nope that was not available. So I ordered a patty melt with a salad. All orders came without the patty melt. I told the waitress when she returned and was told that it was too bad but the kitchen was closed and the cook wouldn't make it! We were stunned but service had been so rude we just wanted to get out. My friend shared her sandwich and we left. The food was bar food average to,poor. The staff was already cleaning around us as we finished although it was still early for a Friday night. I guess they all had somewhere else to be.
(1)
Mark H.
I use Yelp reguarly when I am away to find good places to eat. I have never taken the time to write a review. But, this place was so bad I had to, in hopes of saving someone else $30. I hate to be debbie downer here...but I did not like this place. At all. I wanted to. I wanted to at least find something positive. If I had to, I guess the service was efficient.....not busy at all, almost closing time, service was effective. On the other hand, when food was 80% uneaten, they could have questioned and possibly tried to make a substitute. Ohhhh wait, the Texas toast was good. I am a Texas transplant and am very accustomed to outstanding bbq. This was not it.I started with the burnts and ends appetizer. Was more like all fat pieces. I got the 3 meat plate. No meats were good. I got brisket, sausage and pork. Didnt try the ribs, so no opinion on that. We also had chili....two bites were gone and that was enough to realize it was not what we wanted. Mac and Cheese was literally cold, and even if it was hot, it wouldnt make much of a difference in the taste and quality. French fries were the other side. No comment on those. If this is the best the Tucson area has for BBQ, then stick with sonoran dogs and save some money.
(1)
Chuck D.
Neither sophisticated or elegant, Bubb's has awesome food and great service. Bubb's starts with a real smoker located behind the restaurant - the first requirement of any good BBQ. The ribs are meaty and tender. My personal favorite is a rack of beef ribs. They are big and good. My wife's favorite is the smoked prime rib (available on weekends) which is unique and excellent. The meat combinations, including chicken, provide just about all you could want. Sides are good. Sports fans will find the bar a good place to keep up with your team.
(5)
joe y.
This my friends is the real deal! As anyone knows, the best bbq places have a roll of paper towel on every table! The place is the perfect atmosphere; cozy -southern- southwestern- combo of everything bbq! We did the tobacco onions for a starter- dip then in the southwestern mustard... Perfect! Main courses consisted of a pulled pork sandwich, two meat entree (brisket and pulled pork), chef salad with pulled pork, and the full rack of ribs. (everyone told me they loved their meals... I had the ribs... THE BEST I'VE HAD SINCE I CAN REMEMBER! And that's saying alot, because ribs are one of my favorite, most scrutinized meals!) Of course (like any great bbq place) the sides were a perfect compliment. Spicy baked beans, cole slaw, spiced red potatoes. The kiddos had mac and cheese, beans, and chicken tenders... If your kid is quiet and eating their meal non stop, you've hit a jackpot! Too full for desert, but the ice cream coming out of that kitchen is another reason for me to be back! No wonder the sign boasts "award winning bbq"!
(5)
David D.
This was my first visit to BG after driving by too many times and always noticing a fairly full parking lot. That's typically a good sign. My cuz and I both had the pulled pork sandwich which was awesome. He had potato salad and I had cole slow which were both very good. Alyssa was our server and was very attentive. Decor and background music both very nice. I'll be back.
(4)
Amy W.
Here's a tip for you Tucson natives, get Bubb's Grub to cater your thanksgiving! I was visiting my bf's family and that's what they did. Apparently you have to sign up a bit early b/c they have a limited number of meals to go for thanksgiving, but YOWZA. Cranberry fluff, I'm still talking about it 1 year later! The turkey was smoked (natch!) and there was enough food to feed an army. It seems to me the pricing was reasonable too, but I don't remember what we paid.
(4)
E. A.
This is one of he best BBQ places in the region. His sauce is a spicy savory winner. The brisket and ribs were perfect!
(4)
Barbara L.
This is one of the best restaurants in the Tucson area. We drive out there at least once a week to have the fish fry on Friday or eat steak on a different night. Review written by Dale Hulvey of Barter Tucson.
(5)
Adrian A.
I have been enjoying Bubb's Grub for several years and have never been disappointed with the food or the friendly service. I have always found the meat to tasty and well prepared (the brisket is my favorite) and sides equally good (I usually choose beans and potatoes). In addition to great barbecue I would recommend their Friday fish fry. On a side note... Bubb's Grub also actively sponsors and donates to local youth sports teams.
(5)
Kassi E.
This place is great for the BBQ. We were there for an event and the service was quick and easy for 20+ people hanging out. No one said anything was bad and I had the brisket. Awesome place!
(5)
Francis E.
Found this place by just driving by! WOW! Was very impressed with the food, the only thing is that i wish there had been just a touch more on my plate. left kinda hungry, i suppose i could go to the all you can eat BBQ that they have? lol
(4)
Cindy N.
I'm usually a "healthy eater", however, once in a while I do crave the "What's not so good for you" and gobble it down unabashedly. The main sins in this area, for me are Sonoran Hot Dogs or BBQ. Thanks to all my Yelp writers I had chosen Bubb's Grub to quell my mouth watering desire for some real Texas BBQ. We made the long trek out to Catalina from the North side of town to test out the pretty nice reviews I had seen on Yelp. The place was cool with a Texas style Ranch House. Comfortable booths plus a real Western style ambiance. I was pretty ticked off when we had to pay $3.00 extra to share a meal but it was written all over the menu. They came out with the order in about 2 minutes which led me to wonder how that was possible. The shock came when the pulled pork and the brisket portions were tiny. Also a small amount of fries as well as the cole slaw. Let's not forget the one slice of Texas toast. Let me first say that everything was tasty . I asked the manager about the small portions and he commented that prices are high on meat so therefore the portions reflect that. He came back with some extra meat. Our waitress was so apologetic and extra sweet. She genuinely wanted us to have a good experience. She personally gives most of her customers her own chocolates with the bill. I believe her name was Lurenna. Works there on weekends. The place was crowded so I guess it's popular up in Catalina. Still I love to try different places out, rule some in and some out. That's what Yelp is all about. Because it is a far distance, I'm not sure if I would make the trip up there. If you live closer you won't be disappointed. Huge menu and many choices.
(3)
Chuck P.
OK, this is the best place for hearty mouthwatering food in little ol' Catalina. Meat lovers dream with fabulous sides!
(3)
Marni A.
Great pulled pork sandwiches. The Bloody Mary's are to die for. Great tobacco onion. Service is fast and friendly. Price are very resonable. This is worth the drive. Best bbq I have had in Tucson. I will be taking my out of town visitors here.
(5)
Stephen G.
This is the best BBQ place in town now that Brundogs has cut its menu to a mere shadow of its former self. All the meats have a succulent BBQ flavor and the sauce is a perfect complement to the meat. Sides are terrific too. Too bad it is so far from my house. Wait, maybe it is a good thing. If it was closer, I'd eat there more often and I'd be as big as a house.
(5)
Rob T.
Been going to Bubb's when I visit my parents for years. Good BBQ (especially the pulled pork), awesome Friday Fish Fry, and we've never had bad service. Great owners too, they really love what they do. Breakfast during tourist season is a nice touch too. Nothing like a BBQ pork omelet to fortify for the day! Oh, and that new Southern Style Mustard BBQ sauce... so good.
(5)
Peter G.
Bubb's Grub is really good Texas smoked Bar-B-Q done over Pecan wood. The ribs, and brisket are wonderful. The pulled Pork not too bad, and the smoked chicken a bit dry, but very tasty. Their hot BBQ sauce is super. Great for lunch, as it is quiet; dinner I am told is packed.
(4)
James B.
Not a lot of competition out there in Catalina but this place is worth going to if you like BBQ. Nice service and atmosphere.
(3)
Don B.
If you are going for the walleye expect small portion and high price. If you want fish fry expect average price and small portions. Small cole slaw. Small amount of fries. I actually counted my fries there were so few. (14). Regular size not steak fries. Three pieces of cod. Small pieces. Not all you can eat. I have had fish fries in Wisconsin Minnesota and other places in Tucson. This one is poor at best. I hear there BBQ is good. Try that instead.
(2)
David V.
amazing prime rib on Saturdays!! must have been here 20 times and quality is always exactly same. staff very nice. we drive 20 plus miles just to have a great bbq diner
(5)
Jeff G.
Ok, I was at this place last year and it was great. This year I come back and it was horrible. BBQ was ok, nothing to write home about. The worst part of the meal was the desert. I ordered the apple crisp for $6.25. Now I'm all about desert and I don't mind the price if it's ok but....this was a joke. Basically it was a tortilla the size of a Dorito with a table spoon of ice cream. The guy forgot the apples but brought them on a plate freshly heated up in the microwave. They should be embarrassed.
(1)
Eliza B.
Most disappointing experience I ever had. Prime rib was disgusting. Not cooked correctly, very fatty, Ran out of Blue Moon at 5:30 pm on a Saturday evening, Waitress asked if we wanted dessert before our dinner arrived. No communication or organization. Will never eat here again. ~The Hoginator
(1)
Jessica H.
We came in, we were greeted right away. I had the peel and eat shrimp(it was cooked perfectly) and ribs. It was wonderful. The ribs fell off the bone. The sauce was very good. My husband had mac and cheese( we both liked it) and beans(loved those) he had three meats, chicken, he said was cook great and two others. We would come back again. I liked the food, service and it was a clean place and what I loved, someone who worked their opened the door for me!!!! If you have not been here in awhile, i think you should give this place a chance again!!!!
(4)
Joe P.
I had head a lot of great reviews for this place. But all I can say that my visit there was disappointing. I ordered the two meat combo (brisket and pulled pork shoulder). The brisket was bland, no taste to it whatsoever. The pulled pork was a slight bit better, but it was drowned in some kind of sauce. The sides of corn along with Mac and cheese did nothing to enhance the meal. The corn tasted like it was out of a can. While the Mac and cheese tasted like it was made from velveeta. I really thought from the reviews I heard that this would be awesome. But the food fell short of being okay.
(2)
Kilbey K.
I've only had the food here a couple of times but have had an assortment of items to say that the food is delicious. Stopped in the first time to watch a Seahawks game and sat at the bar. Brittany was the bartender and was friendly, courteous and more than competent. I will definitely be going back to watch some football and have some great food.
(5)
Jerry M.
First timer! Great food and Great service, what more could you ask for? Definitely recommend the Belt Buster, if you're feeling daring. Also loved the pull pork, sliced brisket and ribs. Waitress was very polite and on top of things, keeping or drinks full at ALL times. Bbq sauce is good, more pepper flavor than sweet. Recommend giving it a shot!
(4)
Elizabeth C.
Don't bother! Not worth the trip. The food is consistently horrible and the sides are all carbs unless you want to pay more for a salad that is nothing to write home about. Don't bother asking for any adjustments or complaining, the owner is very curt and nasty.
(1)
Matt M.
We live in the area & frequent Bubbs quite a lot. Good BBQ food, love the pulled pork & burnt ends & pieces. Also enjoy the fish fry on Friday. The smoke flavor is great and the house made mustard bbq sauce & bubbs sauce are some of our family favorites!
(5)
Jess H.
A great variety of different smoked meats (which are smoked overnight on premises). Everything is tasty and fresh. Friendly and fast service. They have a lot of TV's and are always willing to find your game if your team is playing. On Sunday mornings they serve breakfast (try the Bubb's bagel or breakfast cheeseburger). Great place for Friday fish fry or prime rib on Saturday nights.
(5)
Keith Z.
The brisket and pulled pork were old and dry. Chicken was dry. Ribs were tender. Service was very good.
(3)
Tracy P.
I lived in Texas for a few years and I've had my share of good and bad BBQ and this place passed my "Texas" test for both food and decor. I'll definitely go back. Excellent brisket & pulled pork. Pretty good links and sides. My only complaint is that I'd like to have a sweeter, smoky sauce but their sauces were pretty good.
(4)
Daniel K.
If you have been to almost any bbq place then you will be familiar with the style. The atmosphere of this place is traditional "BBQ" western ranch house style. We stopped here on our way to the Ford dealership and it was a pleasant surprise. So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the Tucson area. We liked it so much we went again a week later when we came up to buy the car from the dealer in Oracle and we brought friends the second time. If it was closer to Tucson then we would go more often. Food: this is why we eat out at places like this, to enjoy juicy meats and tasty sauces. This place hits the head of the nail. Both times I ordered the three meat platter and I have to say that their chicken is wonderful. The private label sauce is one of the best that I have had. My only regret is that I didn't buy a bottle to bring home. Guess we will have to go again :-)
(4)
Mike F.
Excellent Friday Fish Fry and "Burnt Ends". The "ends" give you an idea of how good the BBQ is, but the Fish Fry is the best I have had outside of Wisconsin. I have had both the Cod and Walleye. Excellent Service, need Miller Lite on tap, full beer selection is good, lots of TVs to catch up on games.
(5)
John D.
Bubb's Grub is a surprisingly stellar BBQ place. I say surprisingly because although the plates are generous, the side dishes that are included with the meals are much less interesting than the BBQ itself. The fries are just Ortega fries that are cooked in-house, the red potatoes are just two simple boiled potatoes, and the mac and cheese tastes like squeeze cheese. These sides really aren't bad, they just taste more like something you could make at home rather than something prepared in a restaurant. But the BBQ is amazing. One bite of my brisket sandwich and I knew I was coming back to Bubb's Grub. The housemade BBQ sauce is perfect (and on sale at the restaurant) and the preparation of the meat is nothing short of fantastic. I can't say enough about how good this BBQ is. This is easily the best BBQ I've had in Tucson (or Catalina to be specific) so far.
(4)
Chuck D.
Neither sophisticated or elegant, Bubb's has awesome food and great service. Bubb's starts with a real smoker located behind the restaurant - the first requirement of any good BBQ. The ribs are meaty and tender. My personal favorite is a rack of beef ribs. They are big and good. My wife's favorite is the smoked prime rib (available on weekends) which is unique and excellent. The meat combinations, including chicken, provide just about all you could want. Sides are good. Sports fans will find the bar a good place to keep up with your team.
(5)
Mary S.
I called for a to-go order at 8:30 on a Saturday night. I was informed by the very rude lady who answered the phone that the kitchen was closing in a few minutes. I asked her if that was a no then. She asked how far away i was. I replied less than 10 Minutes. She replied no the kitchen is closed... I believe that the hours posted say closed at 9pm. I have frequented Bubb's Grub on many occasions. The food is excellent, but after this i will not be returning. The key to running a successful business is good service.
(1)
Richard h.
We had high hopes for this place, but were disappointed. Menu items: Burnt Ends and Pieces were basically chunks of fat. Brisket was not tender and very fatty, more so than any brisket we have ever had. Pulled pork was OK but nothing to write home about. All in all the experience was below average. A long way to drive and certainly not worth the World Famous accolade. Wish we have gone to Famous Dave's!
(2)
Larry J.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner. A wide range of menu choices with good service at a reasonable price. BBQ is their specialty but everything is really good. My favorite is their 1/2 lb. Burger.
(4)
joe y.
This my friends is the real deal! As anyone knows, the best bbq places have a roll of paper towel on every table! The place is the perfect atmosphere; cozy -southern- southwestern- combo of everything bbq! We did the tobacco onions for a starter- dip then in the southwestern mustard... Perfect! Main courses consisted of a pulled pork sandwich, two meat entree (brisket and pulled pork), chef salad with pulled pork, and the full rack of ribs. (everyone told me they loved their meals... I had the ribs... THE BEST I'VE HAD SINCE I CAN REMEMBER! And that's saying alot, because ribs are one of my favorite, most scrutinized meals!) Of course (like any great bbq place) the sides were a perfect compliment. Spicy baked beans, cole slaw, spiced red potatoes. The kiddos had mac and cheese, beans, and chicken tenders... If your kid is quiet and eating their meal non stop, you've hit a jackpot! Too full for desert, but the ice cream coming out of that kitchen is another reason for me to be back! No wonder the sign boasts "award winning bbq"!
(5)
John D.
Hand down the best pulled pork I have ever eaten. From the first fork full I knew it was love at first bite. This stuff was porkalicious! I added just a little of the BBQ sauce that Bubb's makes and I was devouring my plate. The BBQ sauce was so good I decided to risk it and bring 2 bottles back home. If you are in Oro Valley / Catalina area this place is a MUST ! Service was polite and efficient.
(5)
David D.
This was my first visit to BG after driving by too many times and always noticing a fairly full parking lot. That's typically a good sign. My cuz and I both had the pulled pork sandwich which was awesome. He had potato salad and I had cole slow which were both very good. Alyssa was our server and was very attentive. Decor and background music both very nice. I'll be back.
(4)
Saba B.
Best. Smoked. Andouille. Sausage. Ever...More superlatives come to mind as I relive the decadent taste of Bubb's pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, and pork brisket trio. Nothing is an afterthought here. Even BG's signature BBQ sauce is sweet, spicy, and impossibly rich. I lament that BG's is so far from T-Town, as these guys SMOKE the competition in Southern Arizona. The service is also snappy and thorough and the ambience old school western kitsch. We are definitely coming back for the four-tiered Belly Buster challenge and the Wednesday night all-you-can-eat ribs. Just take a look at the motorized smoker in the back for an idea of how seriously these guys take the art of the grill. Unbeatable!
(5)
Barbara L.
This is one of the best restaurants in the Tucson area. We drive out there at least once a week to have the fish fry on Friday or eat steak on a different night. Review written by Dale Hulvey of Barter Tucson.
(5)
Adrian A.
I have been enjoying Bubb's Grub for several years and have never been disappointed with the food or the friendly service. I have always found the meat to tasty and well prepared (the brisket is my favorite) and sides equally good (I usually choose beans and potatoes). In addition to great barbecue I would recommend their Friday fish fry. On a side note... Bubb's Grub also actively sponsors and donates to local youth sports teams.
(5)
Kassi E.
This place is great for the BBQ. We were there for an event and the service was quick and easy for 20+ people hanging out. No one said anything was bad and I had the brisket. Awesome place!
(5)
Francis E.
Found this place by just driving by! WOW! Was very impressed with the food, the only thing is that i wish there had been just a touch more on my plate. left kinda hungry, i suppose i could go to the all you can eat BBQ that they have? lol
(4)
K M.
Ya know I forgot to review this place a while back, so this is based on a visit from November. Have had BBQ in various spots through the country including the BBQ belt of the south. We were on the far NW side of town, far from our home, and looking for a place to eat and watch a football game and this place was really a surprise, meats, wings, fries. So far the best BBQ I have had in Tucson. Four-and-a-half stars plus 1/2 star for the surprise.
(5)
Mark H.
I use Yelp reguarly when I am away to find good places to eat. I have never taken the time to write a review. But, this place was so bad I had to, in hopes of saving someone else $30. I hate to be debbie downer here...but I did not like this place. At all. I wanted to. I wanted to at least find something positive. If I had to, I guess the service was efficient.....not busy at all, almost closing time, service was effective. On the other hand, when food was 80% uneaten, they could have questioned and possibly tried to make a substitute. Ohhhh wait, the Texas toast was good. I am a Texas transplant and am very accustomed to outstanding bbq. This was not it.I started with the burnts and ends appetizer. Was more like all fat pieces. I got the 3 meat plate. No meats were good. I got brisket, sausage and pork. Didnt try the ribs, so no opinion on that. We also had chili....two bites were gone and that was enough to realize it was not what we wanted. Mac and Cheese was literally cold, and even if it was hot, it wouldnt make much of a difference in the taste and quality. French fries were the other side. No comment on those. If this is the best the Tucson area has for BBQ, then stick with sonoran dogs and save some money.
(1)
Brandon S.
Those who live in Tucson are VERY LUCKY to have Bubb's Grub!!!! SERIOUSLY LUCKY!!!!!! I love BBQ and search for joints in every city I visit. I've been lucky enough to have dined numerous times on some of the finest Texas BBQ in Austin, Texas- Stubs, Rudy's...etc Bubb's Grub is REAL DEAL Texas BBQ! I'm from SoCal and can't find REAL Texas bbq here.....some good bbq, but nothing that brings back memories and flavors of Texas. I was visiting Tucson last week and drove north just wandering around......I saw a small restaurant in the middle of nowhere (ok, I'm from SoCal.....this seemed like the middle of nowhere) it had a big sign that said "WORLD CHAMPION BBQ" with a big painting of Texas on it...... I went back to my hotel and told the wife that we were having bbq for dinner. If you see a restaurant that says "World Champion".....YOU MUST STOP AND EAT. My order was take out so my review is for the food only. It turns out they were world champion for their bbq sauce and pulled pork....I think in 1998, forgive me if I'm wrong. The pride and joy of Texas bbq is brisket.....this was some of the best brisket I have EVER had; almost tender enough to cut with my plastic fork, a nice amount of fat running thru the meat, incredibly juicy, and the smokey flavor, spice, and crust was out of this world...BRAVO Bubb's!!!! YOU ROCK!!!! You must be proud of your brisket to offer "burnt corners and pieces" as an appetizer! Oh I wish I had 2 stomachs that night! I also had the pulled pork.....Fantastic, and the bbq chicken....Fantastic... The beans were great, smokey, and spicy, not sweet. Their bbq sauce is just wonderful, their spicy bbq sauce is wonderful, and their mustard bbq sauce is wonderful. Some say a bbq sauce is truly special when you would consider drinking it just by itself......Bubb's is pretty damn close! The menu is huge and has so much variety....but since I had only one chance I ordered the staples to test their Texas authenticity. There are plenty of sandwiches, appetizers, salads, and sides. The staff was very friendly and helpful with all my nerdy bbq questions. I loved Bubb's so much that I would certainly pay to overnight their food to my home in SoCal. I've done this once before from a North Carolina bbq joint....that's how much I love bbq! They even serve Texas toast!! I just feel like cursing right now.....F&^K YEAH Bubb's! If you live in Tucson and eat here all the time....I ask you to slap yourself once in a while before you sit down at Bubb's to appreciate and remember how lucky you are to have this quality of bbq in your home town. AMAZING! I WILL BE BACK!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Bubb's!
(5)
Bill B.
Who cares about the ambience, etc. The food is mouthwatering! The pulled pork equals the very best that can be found in the Carolinas and I have not been able to find brisket that good in Texas outside of a competition. The chicken is moist and the links are truly hot. I'm not a fan of dry-rub ribs so, I'll leave that for others to judge. If you like either Southern or Texas BBQ, go here. Both styles are done superbly. You won't be disappointed and the proprietor has the competition awards to back up the excellent food.
(5)
Andrew M.
Had dinner with the family while vacationing in Tucson during spring break. I am an aficionado of pork spare ribs, but I'd have to give Bubb's only a 3 star rating for their pork ribs. Good spare ribs fall off the bone. These didn't. They were not really tough, per se, but they just weren't as tender as I would have expected for a place that specializes in ribs. On a lark I also ordered some beef ribs, which were not good at all - maybe a 2 star rating on the beef ribs. They were tough and fatty, with little flavor other than smoke. Bubb's regular BBQ sauce was too hot for everyone in our group, and their mild sauce was a but too vinegary and somewhat sour for the adult tastes in our group. The kids flat out couldn't eat either the mild or the hot sauce. It would have been great if Bubb had a sweet / smoky style of BBQ sauce for those with that taste preference. The sides were good, although nothing to go crazy about. The ambiance was good - nice local flavor. Overall, not a bad experience, but not a great one either.
(3)
elvin b.
The prime rib special was okay, but pricey for the atmosphere which is stripmallish. Wooden Indians which aren't authentic for the area. Lots of the specials are midwestern barbecue which is rather strange considering you're in the middle of the Southwest. What really bummed me out is that I ordered a Tequila Sunrise and EVERWHERE I have had this drink in Arizona the tecquila has tasted decent even though it has not been top shelf. Maybe its because it was happy hour and they were trying to cut corners? Maybe it's because the owner is from Minnesota? I don't know, buit the stuff tasted like rot gut. I couldn't even drink more than a few sips. Yuck. The waiter should have asked me what was wrong and offered to replace the drink but he didn't, well too bad because his tip reflected that. Oh and I've tasted better fries at Burger King.
(2)
Gretchen B.
Went for the Friday night fish fry. The owner is from WI. If the reviewer from CA had looked around with a shred of wisdom he would have seen WI team gear all over the place along with western stuff. Vince Lombardi meets Tom Mix. The place was very busy but the seating arrangements fair and quick. The bar is a fun place to wait and relax with an adult beverage. The fish fry was first rate. Just out of the fryer, sides good to adequate, portions generous, and priced right. We spend the winter in Tucson and the place is a decent replica of a WI Northwoods supper club. Will try the other grup at a future visit. If you miss the BTN they have it on multiple tv's.
(4)
Brandon S.
Those who live in Tucson are VERY LUCKY to have Bubb's Grub!!!! SERIOUSLY LUCKY!!!!!! I love BBQ and search for joints in every city I visit. I've been lucky enough to have dined numerous times on some of the finest Texas BBQ in Austin, Texas- Stubs, Rudy's...etc Bubb's Grub is REAL DEAL Texas BBQ! I'm from SoCal and can't find REAL Texas bbq here.....some good bbq, but nothing that brings back memories and flavors of Texas. I was visiting Tucson last week and drove north just wandering around......I saw a small restaurant in the middle of nowhere (ok, I'm from SoCal.....this seemed like the middle of nowhere) it had a big sign that said "WORLD CHAMPION BBQ" with a big painting of Texas on it...... I went back to my hotel and told the wife that we were having bbq for dinner. If you see a restaurant that says "World Champion".....YOU MUST STOP AND EAT. My order was take out so my review is for the food only. It turns out they were world champion for their bbq sauce and pulled pork....I think in 1998, forgive me if I'm wrong. The pride and joy of Texas bbq is brisket.....this was some of the best brisket I have EVER had; almost tender enough to cut with my plastic fork, a nice amount of fat running thru the meat, incredibly juicy, and the smokey flavor, spice, and crust was out of this world...BRAVO Bubb's!!!! YOU ROCK!!!! You must be proud of your brisket to offer "burnt corners and pieces" as an appetizer! Oh I wish I had 2 stomachs that night! I also had the pulled pork.....Fantastic, and the bbq chicken....Fantastic... The beans were great, smokey, and spicy, not sweet. Their bbq sauce is just wonderful, their spicy bbq sauce is wonderful, and their mustard bbq sauce is wonderful. Some say a bbq sauce is truly special when you would consider drinking it just by itself......Bubb's is pretty damn close! The menu is huge and has so much variety....but since I had only one chance I ordered the staples to test their Texas authenticity. There are plenty of sandwiches, appetizers, salads, and sides. The staff was very friendly and helpful with all my nerdy bbq questions. I loved Bubb's so much that I would certainly pay to overnight their food to my home in SoCal. I've done this once before from a North Carolina bbq joint....that's how much I love bbq! They even serve Texas toast!! I just feel like cursing right now.....F&^K YEAH Bubb's! If you live in Tucson and eat here all the time....I ask you to slap yourself once in a while before you sit down at Bubb's to appreciate and remember how lucky you are to have this quality of bbq in your home town. AMAZING! I WILL BE BACK!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Bubb's!
(5)
Bill B.
Who cares about the ambience, etc. The food is mouthwatering! The pulled pork equals the very best that can be found in the Carolinas and I have not been able to find brisket that good in Texas outside of a competition. The chicken is moist and the links are truly hot. I'm not a fan of dry-rub ribs so, I'll leave that for others to judge. If you like either Southern or Texas BBQ, go here. Both styles are done superbly. You won't be disappointed and the proprietor has the competition awards to back up the excellent food.
(5)
Jerry G.
Stopped in here on my way back into town from San Manuel. A riding buddy had suggested it and had been here several times. I got the world famous pulled pork sandwich with beans as my side. The food was very good and the service was great. They had a 3 BBQ sauces - a mild, their house special (a little spicy) and a southern mustard. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the warm apple cinnamon crisp. They used apple pie filling, which was not bad, but it was the fried tortilla shell that disappointed me. I was expected more a traditional apple crisp. I will swing by again some day when I am in the area, but next time I will try something else for dessert.
(4)
Amy W.
Here's a tip for you Tucson natives, get Bubb's Grub to cater your thanksgiving! I was visiting my bf's family and that's what they did. Apparently you have to sign up a bit early b/c they have a limited number of meals to go for thanksgiving, but YOWZA. Cranberry fluff, I'm still talking about it 1 year later! The turkey was smoked (natch!) and there was enough food to feed an army. It seems to me the pricing was reasonable too, but I don't remember what we paid.
(4)
Stephen G.
This is the best BBQ place in town now that Brundogs has cut its menu to a mere shadow of its former self. All the meats have a succulent BBQ flavor and the sauce is a perfect complement to the meat. Sides are terrific too. Too bad it is so far from my house. Wait, maybe it is a good thing. If it was closer, I'd eat there more often and I'd be as big as a house.
(5)
Rob T.
Been going to Bubb's when I visit my parents for years. Good BBQ (especially the pulled pork), awesome Friday Fish Fry, and we've never had bad service. Great owners too, they really love what they do. Breakfast during tourist season is a nice touch too. Nothing like a BBQ pork omelet to fortify for the day! Oh, and that new Southern Style Mustard BBQ sauce... so good.
(5)
Peter G.
Bubb's Grub is really good Texas smoked Bar-B-Q done over Pecan wood. The ribs, and brisket are wonderful. The pulled Pork not too bad, and the smoked chicken a bit dry, but very tasty. Their hot BBQ sauce is super. Great for lunch, as it is quiet; dinner I am told is packed.
(4)
James B.
Not a lot of competition out there in Catalina but this place is worth going to if you like BBQ. Nice service and atmosphere.
(3)
Andrew M.
Had dinner with the family while vacationing in Tucson during spring break. I am an aficionado of pork spare ribs, but I'd have to give Bubb's only a 3 star rating for their pork ribs. Good spare ribs fall off the bone. These didn't. They were not really tough, per se, but they just weren't as tender as I would have expected for a place that specializes in ribs. On a lark I also ordered some beef ribs, which were not good at all - maybe a 2 star rating on the beef ribs. They were tough and fatty, with little flavor other than smoke. Bubb's regular BBQ sauce was too hot for everyone in our group, and their mild sauce was a but too vinegary and somewhat sour for the adult tastes in our group. The kids flat out couldn't eat either the mild or the hot sauce. It would have been great if Bubb had a sweet / smoky style of BBQ sauce for those with that taste preference. The sides were good, although nothing to go crazy about. The ambiance was good - nice local flavor. Overall, not a bad experience, but not a great one either.
(3)
Peter H.
We decided to give this place a try even though it was a long way from where we live. I was pretty excited when I learned that they had Walleye on the menu. Having lived most of my life in Minnesota I have eaten a lot of Walleye. That is not a very common menu item here in the Southwest. Found out that the owners were from Wisconsin, which would explain the all the packer items about the place. The service was friendly but could have been a bit more knowledgable. The food was ok not great and not bad I think my walleye was a bit over cooked. We might try Bub's again if we happen to be in this part of town (its almost an hour oneway from our home). I might even give the Walleye a second chance.
(3)
Kerry C.
Food was ok, but was blown away when I learned the corkage fee was $15. That is a major rip!
(2)
Jennifer S.
Best ribs around! Great service and nice atmosphere! They have the best BBQ sauces and the mustard BBQ sauce is made in house! You won't be disappointed!!!
(5)
J R.
The food was mediocre at best. It isn't a very busy night and the service is a snails pace. Prices for the meal are expensive for what you get. Two elderly gentleman came into the bar area with bottle of water that where approx 75% consumed. The bartender asked them to remove the beverages or leave the restaurant. Also, veterans, active duty, and law enforcement.... Don't bother asking if there's a discount. Save your $, go to Famous Dave's instead!
(2)
Karl S.
After almost a decade of visiting the Tucson area (for some reason Catalina reminds me of Wasilla...) finally visited Bubb's Grubb. Good BBQ. Unpretentious, old timey western decor. Would have been comfortable with dirt on the floor, but health codes demand otherwise. Jalepeno poppers for the appetizer. Fresh, hot and spicy. Some tap beer and a full bar. No craft beers on tap, but it's not about the beer. It's about the meat.Two meat BBQ for her, three meat for me. Consensus ranking: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage.I liked the brisket. Well done, thin sliced, smokey flavor and a rind of flavorful fat. Cholesterol be damned. Sausage not bad, but I was outvoted. Sides obviously not out of a can. Good, stick to your ribs cooking'. No room for dessert. Next time!
(4)
V F T.
Been there several times but the food isn't all that great and nor is the service. The BBQ is a poor example of what passes as just average in Texas. However they do have ice cold beer.
(1)
Jason L.
BBQ heaven in Catalina! I absolutely love this BBQ joint and it is totally worth the 15 minute drive from my house. From Ina and Oracle just drive north and you will come to the unassuming Bubb's Grub but do not be fooled this place serves up some of the best BBQ in the Tucson metro area! I have been here a handful of times, all Fridays, except for today. This was the first time I actually ordered anything BBQ as I normally ordered the Fish Fry. Today I went all out and ordered the full rack of ribs (like a boss!) with fries and mac and cheese ($22.95). The ribs were perfectly cooked and just the way I like them...fall off the bone or in my case, can not keep them on the bone. The wife does not have an appetite like me so she ordered the half rack of ribs ($14.95) but her ribs were not cooked to perfection like mine. She still ate them but the waitress let us know that if the ribs are ever "tough" like that again to let them know and they would be more than happy to bring out another rack. The sides (fries and mac and cheese) were very normal but let's be honest, if you are coming to a BBQ joint like Bubb's Grub then you should not be coming for the sides. The accompanying BBQ sauces (3 choices: regular, mild, and mustard sauce) are legit as well. The regular has a nice spice and heat to it that really left some heat after taste. My favorite though is the mustard BBQ sauce that has a nice mustard and BBQ taste to it that is just perfect to dip your fries in and put on your ribs. All in all Bubb's Grub is definitely my favorite BBQ restaurant in or near Tucson and is 100% worth the short trip up Oracle Road!
(5)
Mary M.
Since I've already reviewed the barbecue, let's talk about the Wisconsin Fish Fry. I gotta tell you, I'm not a fish lover. Fish and chips, on occasion, in a really good Irish Pub, maybe. So it was with some trepidation that I ordered the Fish Fry. I usually avoid all foods made with flour. It's a health thing. So if I do eat a flour based batter, it better be really really superb. Seeing as the place was overly packed, the wait more than 45 minutes, and everyone... I mean everyone... was passing on the award winning barbecue and ordering the batter-dipped cod, I went for it. That was a few weeks ago, out with friends. I hesitantly took that first bite, noting of course that it looked just absolutely crisp and light and perfect, and it was nothing short of perfect. No heavy batter or fishy fish. No greasy feel or aftertaste. Instead, it was just amazing. The batter light and crisp and very very tasty. The fish inside? A large flaky white tender filet of cod that actually tasted fabulous. Seriously, this was one of the best plates of batter fried fish I'd ever eaten. So, we went back last night to try again. Just to be sure. I have to tell you. When you see that crowd waiting don't let it stop you. Put your name down on the list and go run some errands and go back. Or have a drink at the bar, if you can get close enough. That's the only suggestion I'll make. We stood there for 45 minutes, and it would have been great if the bar service would actually extend to those who couldn't find a seat.
(5)
Hugo M.
I am a bit of a BBQ snob after living in the BBQ Mecca for 11 years "Memphis" and I am an avid tender of the smoker myself. This was our first vist here since we moved back to town. The queen and I came in after the dinner crush albeit it still had a sizable crowd still so i dont know how they do service wise under a big dinner rush. Our server was attentive almost to the point of "bird dogging us" He was great. Our dinner was great though The wife ordered salad with fried chicken on it and it was of good size and very fresh. I ordered the two meat plate and i opted for low carb sides though i wanted the other sides badly hehehe. The brisket was very tender and the smoke ring on it was very pronounced and seasoned in a way that compliments the cut of meat. The other meat was pulled pork I will have to revisit that item again for a better review because I think it was suffering from post dinner rush " hurry and get more pork cooked" although it was tasty the smokiness was light and and the seasoning was lacking. Im not saying it was a bad product I just think i need to try again earlier in the evening. all in all its a good atmosphere and good value. Kudos.
(4)
Jeff R.
I arrived early and there were only three people, at one table, in the place. The "manager" or host spent several minutes talking with them while I stood "waiting to be seated". Several employees seemed to notice me, but none took the initiative to ask if I was there to eat. At my "patience has run out point" a server finally came over and took me to a table. She did a good job and the catfish dinner I had was ok. Fish and fries were good. Hush puppies a waste of the calories- hard, luke warm and tasteless. When I left, the "manager" and one of his employees were busy doing something on a dumb phone so I left without suggesting he pay more attention to potential customers. Who knows how many have walked out instead of waiting.
(2)
Tracy S.
If you like BBQ and you are near Catalina a trip to Bubb's Grub would be a place to check out. I will be honest I am not a BBQ expert and have not searched long and hard for the worlds perfect BBQ but the stuff I had the other night with my Bro in Law was pretty tasty. We started the meal with a basket of Tabasco O-Rings which were tasty but nothing out of the ordinary and Cheese Curds which I would definitely pass (I am a cheese curd snob being from WI and these were nothing more to me then mozz stick bites). Then came the BBQ - I got the 3 meat platter and choose Shredded Pork Shoulder, Texas Hot Links and Brisket. All the meats where very tasty and the portions were substantial. I choose to pair them with a mixture of the BBQ sauce available (sorry no names where given to describe so I can't pass that along but my favorite was the yellowish one). The side ideas where a little less to be desired Mac and Cheese (I have had WAY better and Potato Salad. The serves was not bad, not great. It was later in the evening so people were getting there stuff done to get out of there. By the end of the meal the bus girl was more attentive then the waiter but there was never a point I needed something that I didn't get. All in all a good experience. Although this won't be on my list of places to rush back to if I am in the mood for BBQ I would make the trek back. Things to know before you go, the place closes pretty early (for my dining standards) 8 Sun - Thur and 9 on Fri and Sat and the place clears out so if you are thinking about going make sure you are going earlier vs later
(3)
Jack S.
Pulled pork, great! Try the side, beans real tasty. Cheese cake a must. Good food, good service, reasonable prices, don't pass it by.
(4)
Jack S.
Pulled pork, great! Try the side, beans real tasty. Cheese cake a must. Good food, good service, reasonable prices, don't pass it by.
(4)
Sarah S.
Was not impressed at all. My husband got the pulled pork and it was very dry. I ordered the fried catfish and did not like it at all. I had only taken one bite and let my husband try it and when my husband told the waitress I didn't like it and wanted to get me something else they said there was nothing they could do and made is pay for it anyway. Won't be going back.
(1)
Danielle W.
I loved my pulled pork sandwich, so much so that I wanted a second. :) their dessert menu sounded good but was more expensive than cheesecake factory.
(4)
Brandy O.
Wow I had the pulled pork sandwich, Sala and mac and cheese it was amazing. If you go make sure you try the Southern Mustard BBQ sauce it melts in your mouth. Love this place call ahead and make reservations it's a small place and they stay super busy.....
(5)
Peter H.
We decided to give this place a try even though it was a long way from where we live. I was pretty excited when I learned that they had Walleye on the menu. Having lived most of my life in Minnesota I have eaten a lot of Walleye. That is not a very common menu item here in the Southwest. Found out that the owners were from Wisconsin, which would explain the all the packer items about the place. The service was friendly but could have been a bit more knowledgable. The food was ok not great and not bad I think my walleye was a bit over cooked. We might try Bub's again if we happen to be in this part of town (its almost an hour oneway from our home). I might even give the Walleye a second chance.
(3)
Kerry C.
Food was ok, but was blown away when I learned the corkage fee was $15. That is a major rip!
(2)
Jennifer S.
Best ribs around! Great service and nice atmosphere! They have the best BBQ sauces and the mustard BBQ sauce is made in house! You won't be disappointed!!!
(5)
J R.
The food was mediocre at best. It isn't a very busy night and the service is a snails pace. Prices for the meal are expensive for what you get. Two elderly gentleman came into the bar area with bottle of water that where approx 75% consumed. The bartender asked them to remove the beverages or leave the restaurant. Also, veterans, active duty, and law enforcement.... Don't bother asking if there's a discount. Save your $, go to Famous Dave's instead!
(2)
Karl S.
After almost a decade of visiting the Tucson area (for some reason Catalina reminds me of Wasilla...) finally visited Bubb's Grubb. Good BBQ. Unpretentious, old timey western decor. Would have been comfortable with dirt on the floor, but health codes demand otherwise. Jalepeno poppers for the appetizer. Fresh, hot and spicy. Some tap beer and a full bar. No craft beers on tap, but it's not about the beer. It's about the meat.Two meat BBQ for her, three meat for me. Consensus ranking: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage.I liked the brisket. Well done, thin sliced, smokey flavor and a rind of flavorful fat. Cholesterol be damned. Sausage not bad, but I was outvoted. Sides obviously not out of a can. Good, stick to your ribs cooking'. No room for dessert. Next time!
(4)
V F T.
Been there several times but the food isn't all that great and nor is the service. The BBQ is a poor example of what passes as just average in Texas. However they do have ice cold beer.
(1)
Sarah S.
Was not impressed at all. My husband got the pulled pork and it was very dry. I ordered the fried catfish and did not like it at all. I had only taken one bite and let my husband try it and when my husband told the waitress I didn't like it and wanted to get me something else they said there was nothing they could do and made is pay for it anyway. Won't be going back.
(1)
Danielle W.
I loved my pulled pork sandwich, so much so that I wanted a second. :) their dessert menu sounded good but was more expensive than cheesecake factory.
(4)
Brandy O.
Wow I had the pulled pork sandwich, Sala and mac and cheese it was amazing. If you go make sure you try the Southern Mustard BBQ sauce it melts in your mouth. Love this place call ahead and make reservations it's a small place and they stay super busy.....
(5)
Don B.
If you are going for the walleye expect small portion and high price. If you want fish fry expect average price and small portions. Small cole slaw. Small amount of fries. I actually counted my fries there were so few. (14). Regular size not steak fries. Three pieces of cod. Small pieces. Not all you can eat. I have had fish fries in Wisconsin Minnesota and other places in Tucson. This one is poor at best. I hear there BBQ is good. Try that instead.
(2)
David V.
amazing prime rib on Saturdays!! must have been here 20 times and quality is always exactly same. staff very nice. we drive 20 plus miles just to have a great bbq diner
(5)
Jeff G.
Ok, I was at this place last year and it was great. This year I come back and it was horrible. BBQ was ok, nothing to write home about. The worst part of the meal was the desert. I ordered the apple crisp for $6.25. Now I'm all about desert and I don't mind the price if it's ok but....this was a joke. Basically it was a tortilla the size of a Dorito with a table spoon of ice cream. The guy forgot the apples but brought them on a plate freshly heated up in the microwave. They should be embarrassed.
(1)
Eliza B.
Most disappointing experience I ever had. Prime rib was disgusting. Not cooked correctly, very fatty, Ran out of Blue Moon at 5:30 pm on a Saturday evening, Waitress asked if we wanted dessert before our dinner arrived. No communication or organization. Will never eat here again. ~The Hoginator
(1)
Jessica H.
We came in, we were greeted right away. I had the peel and eat shrimp(it was cooked perfectly) and ribs. It was wonderful. The ribs fell off the bone. The sauce was very good. My husband had mac and cheese( we both liked it) and beans(loved those) he had three meats, chicken, he said was cook great and two others. We would come back again. I liked the food, service and it was a clean place and what I loved, someone who worked their opened the door for me!!!! If you have not been here in awhile, i think you should give this place a chance again!!!!
(4)
Jason L.
BBQ heaven in Catalina! I absolutely love this BBQ joint and it is totally worth the 15 minute drive from my house. From Ina and Oracle just drive north and you will come to the unassuming Bubb's Grub but do not be fooled this place serves up some of the best BBQ in the Tucson metro area! I have been here a handful of times, all Fridays, except for today. This was the first time I actually ordered anything BBQ as I normally ordered the Fish Fry. Today I went all out and ordered the full rack of ribs (like a boss!) with fries and mac and cheese ($22.95). The ribs were perfectly cooked and just the way I like them...fall off the bone or in my case, can not keep them on the bone. The wife does not have an appetite like me so she ordered the half rack of ribs ($14.95) but her ribs were not cooked to perfection like mine. She still ate them but the waitress let us know that if the ribs are ever "tough" like that again to let them know and they would be more than happy to bring out another rack. The sides (fries and mac and cheese) were very normal but let's be honest, if you are coming to a BBQ joint like Bubb's Grub then you should not be coming for the sides. The accompanying BBQ sauces (3 choices: regular, mild, and mustard sauce) are legit as well. The regular has a nice spice and heat to it that really left some heat after taste. My favorite though is the mustard BBQ sauce that has a nice mustard and BBQ taste to it that is just perfect to dip your fries in and put on your ribs. All in all Bubb's Grub is definitely my favorite BBQ restaurant in or near Tucson and is 100% worth the short trip up Oracle Road!
(5)
Mary M.
Since I've already reviewed the barbecue, let's talk about the Wisconsin Fish Fry. I gotta tell you, I'm not a fish lover. Fish and chips, on occasion, in a really good Irish Pub, maybe. So it was with some trepidation that I ordered the Fish Fry. I usually avoid all foods made with flour. It's a health thing. So if I do eat a flour based batter, it better be really really superb. Seeing as the place was overly packed, the wait more than 45 minutes, and everyone... I mean everyone... was passing on the award winning barbecue and ordering the batter-dipped cod, I went for it. That was a few weeks ago, out with friends. I hesitantly took that first bite, noting of course that it looked just absolutely crisp and light and perfect, and it was nothing short of perfect. No heavy batter or fishy fish. No greasy feel or aftertaste. Instead, it was just amazing. The batter light and crisp and very very tasty. The fish inside? A large flaky white tender filet of cod that actually tasted fabulous. Seriously, this was one of the best plates of batter fried fish I'd ever eaten. So, we went back last night to try again. Just to be sure. I have to tell you. When you see that crowd waiting don't let it stop you. Put your name down on the list and go run some errands and go back. Or have a drink at the bar, if you can get close enough. That's the only suggestion I'll make. We stood there for 45 minutes, and it would have been great if the bar service would actually extend to those who couldn't find a seat.
(5)
jack q.
Delicious pulled pork, ribs and chicken w/decent sides. Loved their sauces The service was pretty good, too, and the prices were pretty much a bargain for the amount of food they give you. Lip-smacking!
(4)
Wendi H.
Best BBQ ever! The brisket, ribs, pulled pork, it's was to die for. And we had the best waitress ever. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives needs to pay this place a visit!
(5)
J Marie S.
Stopped by while in the area, anxious to try the Wisconsin cheese curds and some good bbq. The curds were obviously frozen, hard and flavorless. We tried two different 2-meat dinners. Brisket was okay, everything else was mediocre. Side of mac & cheese was like pasta with cheese whiz. Will take a trip a bit further into Oro Valley next time and leave Bubb's in the rear view mirror.
(2)
Sarah N.
The pulled pork is excellent. The Ribs have been hit or miss. Sometimes they are fall of the bone wonderful and other times they are tough. The prices are a bit high for the area. Ambience is nice. Wait staff is good.
(3)
Sharon C.
We went on a Friday night a little later around 7:30. Service was terrible. The waitress acted like she had a date waiting and couldn't get us out fast enough. I ordered soup while the other 3 ordered meals. After ordering she came back and said "the kitchen was closing and there was no more soup. I asked about chili - nope that was not available. So I ordered a patty melt with a salad. All orders came without the patty melt. I told the waitress when she returned and was told that it was too bad but the kitchen was closed and the cook wouldn't make it! We were stunned but service had been so rude we just wanted to get out. My friend shared her sandwich and we left. The food was bar food average to,poor. The staff was already cleaning around us as we finished although it was still early for a Friday night. I guess they all had somewhere else to be.
(1)
Cindy N.
I'm usually a "healthy eater", however, once in a while I do crave the "What's not so good for you" and gobble it down unabashedly. The main sins in this area, for me are Sonoran Hot Dogs or BBQ. Thanks to all my Yelp writers I had chosen Bubb's Grub to quell my mouth watering desire for some real Texas BBQ. We made the long trek out to Catalina from the North side of town to test out the pretty nice reviews I had seen on Yelp. The place was cool with a Texas style Ranch House. Comfortable booths plus a real Western style ambiance. I was pretty ticked off when we had to pay $3.00 extra to share a meal but it was written all over the menu. They came out with the order in about 2 minutes which led me to wonder how that was possible. The shock came when the pulled pork and the brisket portions were tiny. Also a small amount of fries as well as the cole slaw. Let's not forget the one slice of Texas toast. Let me first say that everything was tasty . I asked the manager about the small portions and he commented that prices are high on meat so therefore the portions reflect that. He came back with some extra meat. Our waitress was so apologetic and extra sweet. She genuinely wanted us to have a good experience. She personally gives most of her customers her own chocolates with the bill. I believe her name was Lurenna. Works there on weekends. The place was crowded so I guess it's popular up in Catalina. Still I love to try different places out, rule some in and some out. That's what Yelp is all about. Because it is a far distance, I'm not sure if I would make the trip up there. If you live closer you won't be disappointed. Huge menu and many choices.
(3)
Chuck P.
OK, this is the best place for hearty mouthwatering food in little ol' Catalina. Meat lovers dream with fabulous sides!
(3)
E. A.
This is one of he best BBQ places in the region. His sauce is a spicy savory winner. The brisket and ribs were perfect!
(4)
Marni A.
Great pulled pork sandwiches. The Bloody Mary's are to die for. Great tobacco onion. Service is fast and friendly. Price are very resonable. This is worth the drive. Best bbq I have had in Tucson. I will be taking my out of town visitors here.
(5)
Mary M.
Since I've already reviewed the barbecue, let's talk about the Wisconsin Fish Fry. I gotta tell you, I'm not a fish lover. Fish and chips, on occasion, in a really good Irish Pub, maybe. So it was with some trepidation that I ordered the Fish Fry. I usually avoid all foods made with flour. It's a health thing. So if I do eat a flour based batter, it better be really really superb. Seeing as the place was overly packed, the wait more than 45 minutes, and everyone... I mean everyone... was passing on the award winning barbecue and ordering the batter-dipped cod, I went for it. That was a few weeks ago, out with friends. I hesitantly took that first bite, noting of course that it looked just absolutely crisp and light and perfect, and it was nothing short of perfect. No heavy batter or fishy fish. No greasy feel or aftertaste. Instead, it was just amazing. The batter light and crisp and very very tasty. The fish inside? A large flaky white tender filet of cod that actually tasted fabulous. Seriously, this was one of the best plates of batter fried fish I'd ever eaten. So, we went back last night to try again. Just to be sure. I have to tell you. When you see that crowd waiting don't let it stop you. Put your name down on the list and go run some errands and go back. Or have a drink at the bar, if you can get close enough. That's the only suggestion I'll make. We stood there for 45 minutes, and it would have been great if the bar service would actually extend to those who couldn't find a seat.
(5)
Jerry M.
First timer! Great food and Great service, what more could you ask for? Definitely recommend the Belt Buster, if you're feeling daring. Also loved the pull pork, sliced brisket and ribs. Waitress was very polite and on top of things, keeping or drinks full at ALL times. Bbq sauce is good, more pepper flavor than sweet. Recommend giving it a shot!
(4)
Elizabeth C.
Don't bother! Not worth the trip. The food is consistently horrible and the sides are all carbs unless you want to pay more for a salad that is nothing to write home about. Don't bother asking for any adjustments or complaining, the owner is very curt and nasty.
(1)
Matt M.
We live in the area & frequent Bubbs quite a lot. Good BBQ food, love the pulled pork & burnt ends & pieces. Also enjoy the fish fry on Friday. The smoke flavor is great and the house made mustard bbq sauce & bubbs sauce are some of our family favorites!
(5)
Kilbey K.
I've only had the food here a couple of times but have had an assortment of items to say that the food is delicious. Stopped in the first time to watch a Seahawks game and sat at the bar. Brittany was the bartender and was friendly, courteous and more than competent. I will definitely be going back to watch some football and have some great food.
(5)
Jess H.
A great variety of different smoked meats (which are smoked overnight on premises). Everything is tasty and fresh. Friendly and fast service. They have a lot of TV's and are always willing to find your game if your team is playing. On Sunday mornings they serve breakfast (try the Bubb's bagel or breakfast cheeseburger). Great place for Friday fish fry or prime rib on Saturday nights.
(5)
Jack S.
Pulled pork, great! Try the side, beans real tasty. Cheese cake a must. Good food, good service, reasonable prices, don't pass it by.
(4)
Peter H.
We decided to give this place a try even though it was a long way from where we live. I was pretty excited when I learned that they had Walleye on the menu. Having lived most of my life in Minnesota I have eaten a lot of Walleye. That is not a very common menu item here in the Southwest. Found out that the owners were from Wisconsin, which would explain the all the packer items about the place. The service was friendly but could have been a bit more knowledgable. The food was ok not great and not bad I think my walleye was a bit over cooked. We might try Bub's again if we happen to be in this part of town (its almost an hour oneway from our home). I might even give the Walleye a second chance.
(3)
Kerry C.
Food was ok, but was blown away when I learned the corkage fee was $15. That is a major rip!
(2)
Jennifer S.
Best ribs around! Great service and nice atmosphere! They have the best BBQ sauces and the mustard BBQ sauce is made in house! You won't be disappointed!!!
(5)
J R.
The food was mediocre at best. It isn't a very busy night and the service is a snails pace. Prices for the meal are expensive for what you get. Two elderly gentleman came into the bar area with bottle of water that where approx 75% consumed. The bartender asked them to remove the beverages or leave the restaurant. Also, veterans, active duty, and law enforcement.... Don't bother asking if there's a discount. Save your $, go to Famous Dave's instead!
(2)
Karl S.
After almost a decade of visiting the Tucson area (for some reason Catalina reminds me of Wasilla...) finally visited Bubb's Grubb. Good BBQ. Unpretentious, old timey western decor. Would have been comfortable with dirt on the floor, but health codes demand otherwise. Jalepeno poppers for the appetizer. Fresh, hot and spicy. Some tap beer and a full bar. No craft beers on tap, but it's not about the beer. It's about the meat.Two meat BBQ for her, three meat for me. Consensus ranking: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage.I liked the brisket. Well done, thin sliced, smokey flavor and a rind of flavorful fat. Cholesterol be damned. Sausage not bad, but I was outvoted. Sides obviously not out of a can. Good, stick to your ribs cooking'. No room for dessert. Next time!
(4)
V F T.
Been there several times but the food isn't all that great and nor is the service. The BBQ is a poor example of what passes as just average in Texas. However they do have ice cold beer.
(1)
Sarah S.
Was not impressed at all. My husband got the pulled pork and it was very dry. I ordered the fried catfish and did not like it at all. I had only taken one bite and let my husband try it and when my husband told the waitress I didn't like it and wanted to get me something else they said there was nothing they could do and made is pay for it anyway. Won't be going back.
(1)
Danielle W.
I loved my pulled pork sandwich, so much so that I wanted a second. :) their dessert menu sounded good but was more expensive than cheesecake factory.
(4)
Brandy O.
Wow I had the pulled pork sandwich, Sala and mac and cheese it was amazing. If you go make sure you try the Southern Mustard BBQ sauce it melts in your mouth. Love this place call ahead and make reservations it's a small place and they stay super busy.....
(5)
Don B.
If you are going for the walleye expect small portion and high price. If you want fish fry expect average price and small portions. Small cole slaw. Small amount of fries. I actually counted my fries there were so few. (14). Regular size not steak fries. Three pieces of cod. Small pieces. Not all you can eat. I have had fish fries in Wisconsin Minnesota and other places in Tucson. This one is poor at best. I hear there BBQ is good. Try that instead.
(2)
David V.
amazing prime rib on Saturdays!! must have been here 20 times and quality is always exactly same. staff very nice. we drive 20 plus miles just to have a great bbq diner
(5)
Jeff G.
Ok, I was at this place last year and it was great. This year I come back and it was horrible. BBQ was ok, nothing to write home about. The worst part of the meal was the desert. I ordered the apple crisp for $6.25. Now I'm all about desert and I don't mind the price if it's ok but....this was a joke. Basically it was a tortilla the size of a Dorito with a table spoon of ice cream. The guy forgot the apples but brought them on a plate freshly heated up in the microwave. They should be embarrassed.
(1)
Eliza B.
Most disappointing experience I ever had. Prime rib was disgusting. Not cooked correctly, very fatty, Ran out of Blue Moon at 5:30 pm on a Saturday evening, Waitress asked if we wanted dessert before our dinner arrived. No communication or organization. Will never eat here again. ~The Hoginator
(1)
Jessica H.
We came in, we were greeted right away. I had the peel and eat shrimp(it was cooked perfectly) and ribs. It was wonderful. The ribs fell off the bone. The sauce was very good. My husband had mac and cheese( we both liked it) and beans(loved those) he had three meats, chicken, he said was cook great and two others. We would come back again. I liked the food, service and it was a clean place and what I loved, someone who worked their opened the door for me!!!! If you have not been here in awhile, i think you should give this place a chance again!!!!
(4)
Joe P.
I had head a lot of great reviews for this place. But all I can say that my visit there was disappointing. I ordered the two meat combo (brisket and pulled pork shoulder). The brisket was bland, no taste to it whatsoever. The pulled pork was a slight bit better, but it was drowned in some kind of sauce. The sides of corn along with Mac and cheese did nothing to enhance the meal. The corn tasted like it was out of a can. While the Mac and cheese tasted like it was made from velveeta. I really thought from the reviews I heard that this would be awesome. But the food fell short of being okay.
(2)
Jason L.
BBQ heaven in Catalina! I absolutely love this BBQ joint and it is totally worth the 15 minute drive from my house. From Ina and Oracle just drive north and you will come to the unassuming Bubb's Grub but do not be fooled this place serves up some of the best BBQ in the Tucson metro area! I have been here a handful of times, all Fridays, except for today. This was the first time I actually ordered anything BBQ as I normally ordered the Fish Fry. Today I went all out and ordered the full rack of ribs (like a boss!) with fries and mac and cheese ($22.95). The ribs were perfectly cooked and just the way I like them...fall off the bone or in my case, can not keep them on the bone. The wife does not have an appetite like me so she ordered the half rack of ribs ($14.95) but her ribs were not cooked to perfection like mine. She still ate them but the waitress let us know that if the ribs are ever "tough" like that again to let them know and they would be more than happy to bring out another rack. The sides (fries and mac and cheese) were very normal but let's be honest, if you are coming to a BBQ joint like Bubb's Grub then you should not be coming for the sides. The accompanying BBQ sauces (3 choices: regular, mild, and mustard sauce) are legit as well. The regular has a nice spice and heat to it that really left some heat after taste. My favorite though is the mustard BBQ sauce that has a nice mustard and BBQ taste to it that is just perfect to dip your fries in and put on your ribs. All in all Bubb's Grub is definitely my favorite BBQ restaurant in or near Tucson and is 100% worth the short trip up Oracle Road!
(5)
Keith Z.
The brisket and pulled pork were old and dry. Chicken was dry. Ribs were tender. Service was very good.
(3)
Tracy P.
I lived in Texas for a few years and I've had my share of good and bad BBQ and this place passed my "Texas" test for both food and decor. I'll definitely go back. Excellent brisket & pulled pork. Pretty good links and sides. My only complaint is that I'd like to have a sweeter, smoky sauce but their sauces were pretty good.
(4)
John D.
Hand down the best pulled pork I have ever eaten. From the first fork full I knew it was love at first bite. This stuff was porkalicious! I added just a little of the BBQ sauce that Bubb's makes and I was devouring my plate. The BBQ sauce was so good I decided to risk it and bring 2 bottles back home. If you are in Oro Valley / Catalina area this place is a MUST ! Service was polite and efficient.
(5)
Daniel K.
If you have been to almost any bbq place then you will be familiar with the style. The atmosphere of this place is traditional "BBQ" western ranch house style. We stopped here on our way to the Ford dealership and it was a pleasant surprise. So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the Tucson area. We liked it so much we went again a week later when we came up to buy the car from the dealer in Oracle and we brought friends the second time. If it was closer to Tucson then we would go more often. Food: this is why we eat out at places like this, to enjoy juicy meats and tasty sauces. This place hits the head of the nail. Both times I ordered the three meat platter and I have to say that their chicken is wonderful. The private label sauce is one of the best that I have had. My only regret is that I didn't buy a bottle to bring home. Guess we will have to go again :-)
(4)
Mike F.
Excellent Friday Fish Fry and "Burnt Ends". The "ends" give you an idea of how good the BBQ is, but the Fish Fry is the best I have had outside of Wisconsin. I have had both the Cod and Walleye. Excellent Service, need Miller Lite on tap, full beer selection is good, lots of TVs to catch up on games.
(5)
John D.
Bubb's Grub is a surprisingly stellar BBQ place. I say surprisingly because although the plates are generous, the side dishes that are included with the meals are much less interesting than the BBQ itself. The fries are just Ortega fries that are cooked in-house, the red potatoes are just two simple boiled potatoes, and the mac and cheese tastes like squeeze cheese. These sides really aren't bad, they just taste more like something you could make at home rather than something prepared in a restaurant. But the BBQ is amazing. One bite of my brisket sandwich and I knew I was coming back to Bubb's Grub. The housemade BBQ sauce is perfect (and on sale at the restaurant) and the preparation of the meat is nothing short of fantastic. I can't say enough about how good this BBQ is. This is easily the best BBQ I've had in Tucson (or Catalina to be specific) so far.
(4)
Mary S.
I called for a to-go order at 8:30 on a Saturday night. I was informed by the very rude lady who answered the phone that the kitchen was closing in a few minutes. I asked her if that was a no then. She asked how far away i was. I replied less than 10 Minutes. She replied no the kitchen is closed... I believe that the hours posted say closed at 9pm. I have frequented Bubb's Grub on many occasions. The food is excellent, but after this i will not be returning. The key to running a successful business is good service.
(1)
Richard h.
We had high hopes for this place, but were disappointed. Menu items: Burnt Ends and Pieces were basically chunks of fat. Brisket was not tender and very fatty, more so than any brisket we have ever had. Pulled pork was OK but nothing to write home about. All in all the experience was below average. A long way to drive and certainly not worth the World Famous accolade. Wish we have gone to Famous Dave's!
(2)
Larry J.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner. A wide range of menu choices with good service at a reasonable price. BBQ is their specialty but everything is really good. My favorite is their 1/2 lb. Burger.
(4)
Saba B.
Best. Smoked. Andouille. Sausage. Ever...More superlatives come to mind as I relive the decadent taste of Bubb's pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, and pork brisket trio. Nothing is an afterthought here. Even BG's signature BBQ sauce is sweet, spicy, and impossibly rich. I lament that BG's is so far from T-Town, as these guys SMOKE the competition in Southern Arizona. The service is also snappy and thorough and the ambience old school western kitsch. We are definitely coming back for the four-tiered Belly Buster challenge and the Wednesday night all-you-can-eat ribs. Just take a look at the motorized smoker in the back for an idea of how seriously these guys take the art of the grill. Unbeatable!
(5)
Hugo M.
I am a bit of a BBQ snob after living in the BBQ Mecca for 11 years "Memphis" and I am an avid tender of the smoker myself. This was our first vist here since we moved back to town. The queen and I came in after the dinner crush albeit it still had a sizable crowd still so i dont know how they do service wise under a big dinner rush. Our server was attentive almost to the point of "bird dogging us" He was great. Our dinner was great though The wife ordered salad with fried chicken on it and it was of good size and very fresh. I ordered the two meat plate and i opted for low carb sides though i wanted the other sides badly hehehe. The brisket was very tender and the smoke ring on it was very pronounced and seasoned in a way that compliments the cut of meat. The other meat was pulled pork I will have to revisit that item again for a better review because I think it was suffering from post dinner rush " hurry and get more pork cooked" although it was tasty the smokiness was light and and the seasoning was lacking. Im not saying it was a bad product I just think i need to try again earlier in the evening. all in all its a good atmosphere and good value. Kudos.
(4)
Jeff R.
I arrived early and there were only three people, at one table, in the place. The "manager" or host spent several minutes talking with them while I stood "waiting to be seated". Several employees seemed to notice me, but none took the initiative to ask if I was there to eat. At my "patience has run out point" a server finally came over and took me to a table. She did a good job and the catfish dinner I had was ok. Fish and fries were good. Hush puppies a waste of the calories- hard, luke warm and tasteless. When I left, the "manager" and one of his employees were busy doing something on a dumb phone so I left without suggesting he pay more attention to potential customers. Who knows how many have walked out instead of waiting.
(2)
K M.
Ya know I forgot to review this place a while back, so this is based on a visit from November. Have had BBQ in various spots through the country including the BBQ belt of the south. We were on the far NW side of town, far from our home, and looking for a place to eat and watch a football game and this place was really a surprise, meats, wings, fries. So far the best BBQ I have had in Tucson. Four-and-a-half stars plus 1/2 star for the surprise.
(5)
O G.
So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the area. We liked it so much I stop by when in the area traveling which by the way is over an hour for me The Food: Large selection on menu the pork is excellent, and the brisket is good. I had the brisket twice now and the first time it was better it was little dry this time. Service can be more focus on the customer. So stop and check it out.
(4)
Tracy S.
If you like BBQ and you are near Catalina a trip to Bubb's Grub would be a place to check out. I will be honest I am not a BBQ expert and have not searched long and hard for the worlds perfect BBQ but the stuff I had the other night with my Bro in Law was pretty tasty. We started the meal with a basket of Tabasco O-Rings which were tasty but nothing out of the ordinary and Cheese Curds which I would definitely pass (I am a cheese curd snob being from WI and these were nothing more to me then mozz stick bites). Then came the BBQ - I got the 3 meat platter and choose Shredded Pork Shoulder, Texas Hot Links and Brisket. All the meats where very tasty and the portions were substantial. I choose to pair them with a mixture of the BBQ sauce available (sorry no names where given to describe so I can't pass that along but my favorite was the yellowish one). The side ideas where a little less to be desired Mac and Cheese (I have had WAY better and Potato Salad. The serves was not bad, not great. It was later in the evening so people were getting there stuff done to get out of there. By the end of the meal the bus girl was more attentive then the waiter but there was never a point I needed something that I didn't get. All in all a good experience. Although this won't be on my list of places to rush back to if I am in the mood for BBQ I would make the trek back. Things to know before you go, the place closes pretty early (for my dining standards) 8 Sun - Thur and 9 on Fri and Sat and the place clears out so if you are thinking about going make sure you are going earlier vs later
(3)
elvin b.
The prime rib special was okay, but pricey for the atmosphere which is stripmallish. Wooden Indians which aren't authentic for the area. Lots of the specials are midwestern barbecue which is rather strange considering you're in the middle of the Southwest. What really bummed me out is that I ordered a Tequila Sunrise and EVERWHERE I have had this drink in Arizona the tecquila has tasted decent even though it has not been top shelf. Maybe its because it was happy hour and they were trying to cut corners? Maybe it's because the owner is from Minnesota? I don't know, buit the stuff tasted like rot gut. I couldn't even drink more than a few sips. Yuck. The waiter should have asked me what was wrong and offered to replace the drink but he didn't, well too bad because his tip reflected that. Oh and I've tasted better fries at Burger King.
(2)
Gretchen B.
Went for the Friday night fish fry. The owner is from WI. If the reviewer from CA had looked around with a shred of wisdom he would have seen WI team gear all over the place along with western stuff. Vince Lombardi meets Tom Mix. The place was very busy but the seating arrangements fair and quick. The bar is a fun place to wait and relax with an adult beverage. The fish fry was first rate. Just out of the fryer, sides good to adequate, portions generous, and priced right. We spend the winter in Tucson and the place is a decent replica of a WI Northwoods supper club. Will try the other grup at a future visit. If you miss the BTN they have it on multiple tv's.
(4)
Brandon S.
Those who live in Tucson are VERY LUCKY to have Bubb's Grub!!!! SERIOUSLY LUCKY!!!!!! I love BBQ and search for joints in every city I visit. I've been lucky enough to have dined numerous times on some of the finest Texas BBQ in Austin, Texas- Stubs, Rudy's...etc Bubb's Grub is REAL DEAL Texas BBQ! I'm from SoCal and can't find REAL Texas bbq here.....some good bbq, but nothing that brings back memories and flavors of Texas. I was visiting Tucson last week and drove north just wandering around......I saw a small restaurant in the middle of nowhere (ok, I'm from SoCal.....this seemed like the middle of nowhere) it had a big sign that said "WORLD CHAMPION BBQ" with a big painting of Texas on it...... I went back to my hotel and told the wife that we were having bbq for dinner. If you see a restaurant that says "World Champion".....YOU MUST STOP AND EAT. My order was take out so my review is for the food only. It turns out they were world champion for their bbq sauce and pulled pork....I think in 1998, forgive me if I'm wrong. The pride and joy of Texas bbq is brisket.....this was some of the best brisket I have EVER had; almost tender enough to cut with my plastic fork, a nice amount of fat running thru the meat, incredibly juicy, and the smokey flavor, spice, and crust was out of this world...BRAVO Bubb's!!!! YOU ROCK!!!! You must be proud of your brisket to offer "burnt corners and pieces" as an appetizer! Oh I wish I had 2 stomachs that night! I also had the pulled pork.....Fantastic, and the bbq chicken....Fantastic... The beans were great, smokey, and spicy, not sweet. Their bbq sauce is just wonderful, their spicy bbq sauce is wonderful, and their mustard bbq sauce is wonderful. Some say a bbq sauce is truly special when you would consider drinking it just by itself......Bubb's is pretty damn close! The menu is huge and has so much variety....but since I had only one chance I ordered the staples to test their Texas authenticity. There are plenty of sandwiches, appetizers, salads, and sides. The staff was very friendly and helpful with all my nerdy bbq questions. I loved Bubb's so much that I would certainly pay to overnight their food to my home in SoCal. I've done this once before from a North Carolina bbq joint....that's how much I love bbq! They even serve Texas toast!! I just feel like cursing right now.....F&^K YEAH Bubb's! If you live in Tucson and eat here all the time....I ask you to slap yourself once in a while before you sit down at Bubb's to appreciate and remember how lucky you are to have this quality of bbq in your home town. AMAZING! I WILL BE BACK!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Bubb's!
(5)
Bill B.
Who cares about the ambience, etc. The food is mouthwatering! The pulled pork equals the very best that can be found in the Carolinas and I have not been able to find brisket that good in Texas outside of a competition. The chicken is moist and the links are truly hot. I'm not a fan of dry-rub ribs so, I'll leave that for others to judge. If you like either Southern or Texas BBQ, go here. Both styles are done superbly. You won't be disappointed and the proprietor has the competition awards to back up the excellent food.
(5)
Jerry G.
Stopped in here on my way back into town from San Manuel. A riding buddy had suggested it and had been here several times. I got the world famous pulled pork sandwich with beans as my side. The food was very good and the service was great. They had a 3 BBQ sauces - a mild, their house special (a little spicy) and a southern mustard. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the warm apple cinnamon crisp. They used apple pie filling, which was not bad, but it was the fried tortilla shell that disappointed me. I was expected more a traditional apple crisp. I will swing by again some day when I am in the area, but next time I will try something else for dessert.
(4)
jack q.
Delicious pulled pork, ribs and chicken w/decent sides. Loved their sauces The service was pretty good, too, and the prices were pretty much a bargain for the amount of food they give you. Lip-smacking!
(4)
Wendi H.
Best BBQ ever! The brisket, ribs, pulled pork, it's was to die for. And we had the best waitress ever. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives needs to pay this place a visit!
(5)
J Marie S.
Stopped by while in the area, anxious to try the Wisconsin cheese curds and some good bbq. The curds were obviously frozen, hard and flavorless. We tried two different 2-meat dinners. Brisket was okay, everything else was mediocre. Side of mac & cheese was like pasta with cheese whiz. Will take a trip a bit further into Oro Valley next time and leave Bubb's in the rear view mirror.
(2)
Sarah N.
The pulled pork is excellent. The Ribs have been hit or miss. Sometimes they are fall of the bone wonderful and other times they are tough. The prices are a bit high for the area. Ambience is nice. Wait staff is good.
(3)
Sharon C.
We went on a Friday night a little later around 7:30. Service was terrible. The waitress acted like she had a date waiting and couldn't get us out fast enough. I ordered soup while the other 3 ordered meals. After ordering she came back and said "the kitchen was closing and there was no more soup. I asked about chili - nope that was not available. So I ordered a patty melt with a salad. All orders came without the patty melt. I told the waitress when she returned and was told that it was too bad but the kitchen was closed and the cook wouldn't make it! We were stunned but service had been so rude we just wanted to get out. My friend shared her sandwich and we left. The food was bar food average to,poor. The staff was already cleaning around us as we finished although it was still early for a Friday night. I guess they all had somewhere else to be.
(1)
Amy W.
Here's a tip for you Tucson natives, get Bubb's Grub to cater your thanksgiving! I was visiting my bf's family and that's what they did. Apparently you have to sign up a bit early b/c they have a limited number of meals to go for thanksgiving, but YOWZA. Cranberry fluff, I'm still talking about it 1 year later! The turkey was smoked (natch!) and there was enough food to feed an army. It seems to me the pricing was reasonable too, but I don't remember what we paid.
(4)
E. A.
This is one of he best BBQ places in the region. His sauce is a spicy savory winner. The brisket and ribs were perfect!
(4)
Mark H.
I use Yelp reguarly when I am away to find good places to eat. I have never taken the time to write a review. But, this place was so bad I had to, in hopes of saving someone else $30. I hate to be debbie downer here...but I did not like this place. At all. I wanted to. I wanted to at least find something positive. If I had to, I guess the service was efficient.....not busy at all, almost closing time, service was effective. On the other hand, when food was 80% uneaten, they could have questioned and possibly tried to make a substitute. Ohhhh wait, the Texas toast was good. I am a Texas transplant and am very accustomed to outstanding bbq. This was not it.I started with the burnts and ends appetizer. Was more like all fat pieces. I got the 3 meat plate. No meats were good. I got brisket, sausage and pork. Didnt try the ribs, so no opinion on that. We also had chili....two bites were gone and that was enough to realize it was not what we wanted. Mac and Cheese was literally cold, and even if it was hot, it wouldnt make much of a difference in the taste and quality. French fries were the other side. No comment on those. If this is the best the Tucson area has for BBQ, then stick with sonoran dogs and save some money.
(1)
Chuck D.
Neither sophisticated or elegant, Bubb's has awesome food and great service. Bubb's starts with a real smoker located behind the restaurant - the first requirement of any good BBQ. The ribs are meaty and tender. My personal favorite is a rack of beef ribs. They are big and good. My wife's favorite is the smoked prime rib (available on weekends) which is unique and excellent. The meat combinations, including chicken, provide just about all you could want. Sides are good. Sports fans will find the bar a good place to keep up with your team.
(5)
joe y.
This my friends is the real deal! As anyone knows, the best bbq places have a roll of paper towel on every table! The place is the perfect atmosphere; cozy -southern- southwestern- combo of everything bbq! We did the tobacco onions for a starter- dip then in the southwestern mustard... Perfect! Main courses consisted of a pulled pork sandwich, two meat entree (brisket and pulled pork), chef salad with pulled pork, and the full rack of ribs. (everyone told me they loved their meals... I had the ribs... THE BEST I'VE HAD SINCE I CAN REMEMBER! And that's saying alot, because ribs are one of my favorite, most scrutinized meals!) Of course (like any great bbq place) the sides were a perfect compliment. Spicy baked beans, cole slaw, spiced red potatoes. The kiddos had mac and cheese, beans, and chicken tenders... If your kid is quiet and eating their meal non stop, you've hit a jackpot! Too full for desert, but the ice cream coming out of that kitchen is another reason for me to be back! No wonder the sign boasts "award winning bbq"!
(5)
David D.
This was my first visit to BG after driving by too many times and always noticing a fairly full parking lot. That's typically a good sign. My cuz and I both had the pulled pork sandwich which was awesome. He had potato salad and I had cole slow which were both very good. Alyssa was our server and was very attentive. Decor and background music both very nice. I'll be back.
(4)
Barbara L.
This is one of the best restaurants in the Tucson area. We drive out there at least once a week to have the fish fry on Friday or eat steak on a different night. Review written by Dale Hulvey of Barter Tucson.
(5)
Adrian A.
I have been enjoying Bubb's Grub for several years and have never been disappointed with the food or the friendly service. I have always found the meat to tasty and well prepared (the brisket is my favorite) and sides equally good (I usually choose beans and potatoes). In addition to great barbecue I would recommend their Friday fish fry. On a side note... Bubb's Grub also actively sponsors and donates to local youth sports teams.
(5)
Kassi E.
This place is great for the BBQ. We were there for an event and the service was quick and easy for 20+ people hanging out. No one said anything was bad and I had the brisket. Awesome place!
(5)
Francis E.
Found this place by just driving by! WOW! Was very impressed with the food, the only thing is that i wish there had been just a touch more on my plate. left kinda hungry, i suppose i could go to the all you can eat BBQ that they have? lol
(4)
Cindy N.
I'm usually a "healthy eater", however, once in a while I do crave the "What's not so good for you" and gobble it down unabashedly. The main sins in this area, for me are Sonoran Hot Dogs or BBQ. Thanks to all my Yelp writers I had chosen Bubb's Grub to quell my mouth watering desire for some real Texas BBQ. We made the long trek out to Catalina from the North side of town to test out the pretty nice reviews I had seen on Yelp. The place was cool with a Texas style Ranch House. Comfortable booths plus a real Western style ambiance. I was pretty ticked off when we had to pay $3.00 extra to share a meal but it was written all over the menu. They came out with the order in about 2 minutes which led me to wonder how that was possible. The shock came when the pulled pork and the brisket portions were tiny. Also a small amount of fries as well as the cole slaw. Let's not forget the one slice of Texas toast. Let me first say that everything was tasty . I asked the manager about the small portions and he commented that prices are high on meat so therefore the portions reflect that. He came back with some extra meat. Our waitress was so apologetic and extra sweet. She genuinely wanted us to have a good experience. She personally gives most of her customers her own chocolates with the bill. I believe her name was Lurenna. Works there on weekends. The place was crowded so I guess it's popular up in Catalina. Still I love to try different places out, rule some in and some out. That's what Yelp is all about. Because it is a far distance, I'm not sure if I would make the trip up there. If you live closer you won't be disappointed. Huge menu and many choices.
(3)
Chuck P.
OK, this is the best place for hearty mouthwatering food in little ol' Catalina. Meat lovers dream with fabulous sides!
(3)
Marni A.
Great pulled pork sandwiches. The Bloody Mary's are to die for. Great tobacco onion. Service is fast and friendly. Price are very resonable. This is worth the drive. Best bbq I have had in Tucson. I will be taking my out of town visitors here.
(5)
Stephen G.
This is the best BBQ place in town now that Brundogs has cut its menu to a mere shadow of its former self. All the meats have a succulent BBQ flavor and the sauce is a perfect complement to the meat. Sides are terrific too. Too bad it is so far from my house. Wait, maybe it is a good thing. If it was closer, I'd eat there more often and I'd be as big as a house.
(5)
Rob T.
Been going to Bubb's when I visit my parents for years. Good BBQ (especially the pulled pork), awesome Friday Fish Fry, and we've never had bad service. Great owners too, they really love what they do. Breakfast during tourist season is a nice touch too. Nothing like a BBQ pork omelet to fortify for the day! Oh, and that new Southern Style Mustard BBQ sauce... so good.
(5)
Peter G.
Bubb's Grub is really good Texas smoked Bar-B-Q done over Pecan wood. The ribs, and brisket are wonderful. The pulled Pork not too bad, and the smoked chicken a bit dry, but very tasty. Their hot BBQ sauce is super. Great for lunch, as it is quiet; dinner I am told is packed.
(4)
James B.
Not a lot of competition out there in Catalina but this place is worth going to if you like BBQ. Nice service and atmosphere.
(3)
Andrew M.
Had dinner with the family while vacationing in Tucson during spring break. I am an aficionado of pork spare ribs, but I'd have to give Bubb's only a 3 star rating for their pork ribs. Good spare ribs fall off the bone. These didn't. They were not really tough, per se, but they just weren't as tender as I would have expected for a place that specializes in ribs. On a lark I also ordered some beef ribs, which were not good at all - maybe a 2 star rating on the beef ribs. They were tough and fatty, with little flavor other than smoke. Bubb's regular BBQ sauce was too hot for everyone in our group, and their mild sauce was a but too vinegary and somewhat sour for the adult tastes in our group. The kids flat out couldn't eat either the mild or the hot sauce. It would have been great if Bubb had a sweet / smoky style of BBQ sauce for those with that taste preference. The sides were good, although nothing to go crazy about. The ambiance was good - nice local flavor. Overall, not a bad experience, but not a great one either.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Sarah N.
The pulled pork is excellent. The Ribs have been hit or miss. Sometimes they are fall of the bone wonderful and other times they are tough. The prices are a bit high for the area. Ambience is nice. Wait staff is good.
(3)Joe P.
I had head a lot of great reviews for this place. But all I can say that my visit there was disappointing. I ordered the two meat combo (brisket and pulled pork shoulder). The brisket was bland, no taste to it whatsoever. The pulled pork was a slight bit better, but it was drowned in some kind of sauce. The sides of corn along with Mac and cheese did nothing to enhance the meal. The corn tasted like it was out of a can. While the Mac and cheese tasted like it was made from velveeta. I really thought from the reviews I heard that this would be awesome. But the food fell short of being okay.
(2)Jerry M.
First timer! Great food and Great service, what more could you ask for? Definitely recommend the Belt Buster, if you're feeling daring. Also loved the pull pork, sliced brisket and ribs. Waitress was very polite and on top of things, keeping or drinks full at ALL times. Bbq sauce is good, more pepper flavor than sweet. Recommend giving it a shot!
(4)Elizabeth C.
Don't bother! Not worth the trip. The food is consistently horrible and the sides are all carbs unless you want to pay more for a salad that is nothing to write home about. Don't bother asking for any adjustments or complaining, the owner is very curt and nasty.
(1)Matt M.
We live in the area & frequent Bubbs quite a lot. Good BBQ food, love the pulled pork & burnt ends & pieces. Also enjoy the fish fry on Friday. The smoke flavor is great and the house made mustard bbq sauce & bubbs sauce are some of our family favorites!
(5)Kilbey K.
I've only had the food here a couple of times but have had an assortment of items to say that the food is delicious. Stopped in the first time to watch a Seahawks game and sat at the bar. Brittany was the bartender and was friendly, courteous and more than competent. I will definitely be going back to watch some football and have some great food.
(5)Jess H.
A great variety of different smoked meats (which are smoked overnight on premises). Everything is tasty and fresh. Friendly and fast service. They have a lot of TV's and are always willing to find your game if your team is playing. On Sunday mornings they serve breakfast (try the Bubb's bagel or breakfast cheeseburger). Great place for Friday fish fry or prime rib on Saturday nights.
(5)Keith Z.
The brisket and pulled pork were old and dry. Chicken was dry. Ribs were tender. Service was very good.
(3)Tracy P.
I lived in Texas for a few years and I've had my share of good and bad BBQ and this place passed my "Texas" test for both food and decor. I'll definitely go back. Excellent brisket & pulled pork. Pretty good links and sides. My only complaint is that I'd like to have a sweeter, smoky sauce but their sauces were pretty good.
(4)Daniel K.
If you have been to almost any bbq place then you will be familiar with the style. The atmosphere of this place is traditional "BBQ" western ranch house style. We stopped here on our way to the Ford dealership and it was a pleasant surprise. So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the Tucson area. We liked it so much we went again a week later when we came up to buy the car from the dealer in Oracle and we brought friends the second time. If it was closer to Tucson then we would go more often. Food: this is why we eat out at places like this, to enjoy juicy meats and tasty sauces. This place hits the head of the nail. Both times I ordered the three meat platter and I have to say that their chicken is wonderful. The private label sauce is one of the best that I have had. My only regret is that I didn't buy a bottle to bring home. Guess we will have to go again :-)
(4)Mike F.
Excellent Friday Fish Fry and "Burnt Ends". The "ends" give you an idea of how good the BBQ is, but the Fish Fry is the best I have had outside of Wisconsin. I have had both the Cod and Walleye. Excellent Service, need Miller Lite on tap, full beer selection is good, lots of TVs to catch up on games.
(5)John D.
Bubb's Grub is a surprisingly stellar BBQ place. I say surprisingly because although the plates are generous, the side dishes that are included with the meals are much less interesting than the BBQ itself. The fries are just Ortega fries that are cooked in-house, the red potatoes are just two simple boiled potatoes, and the mac and cheese tastes like squeeze cheese. These sides really aren't bad, they just taste more like something you could make at home rather than something prepared in a restaurant. But the BBQ is amazing. One bite of my brisket sandwich and I knew I was coming back to Bubb's Grub. The housemade BBQ sauce is perfect (and on sale at the restaurant) and the preparation of the meat is nothing short of fantastic. I can't say enough about how good this BBQ is. This is easily the best BBQ I've had in Tucson (or Catalina to be specific) so far.
(4)Mary S.
I called for a to-go order at 8:30 on a Saturday night. I was informed by the very rude lady who answered the phone that the kitchen was closing in a few minutes. I asked her if that was a no then. She asked how far away i was. I replied less than 10 Minutes. She replied no the kitchen is closed... I believe that the hours posted say closed at 9pm. I have frequented Bubb's Grub on many occasions. The food is excellent, but after this i will not be returning. The key to running a successful business is good service.
(1)Richard h.
We had high hopes for this place, but were disappointed. Menu items: Burnt Ends and Pieces were basically chunks of fat. Brisket was not tender and very fatty, more so than any brisket we have ever had. Pulled pork was OK but nothing to write home about. All in all the experience was below average. A long way to drive and certainly not worth the World Famous accolade. Wish we have gone to Famous Dave's!
(2)Larry J.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner. A wide range of menu choices with good service at a reasonable price. BBQ is their specialty but everything is really good. My favorite is their 1/2 lb. Burger.
(4)John D.
Hand down the best pulled pork I have ever eaten. From the first fork full I knew it was love at first bite. This stuff was porkalicious! I added just a little of the BBQ sauce that Bubb's makes and I was devouring my plate. The BBQ sauce was so good I decided to risk it and bring 2 bottles back home. If you are in Oro Valley / Catalina area this place is a MUST ! Service was polite and efficient.
(5)Saba B.
Best. Smoked. Andouille. Sausage. Ever...More superlatives come to mind as I relive the decadent taste of Bubb's pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, and pork brisket trio. Nothing is an afterthought here. Even BG's signature BBQ sauce is sweet, spicy, and impossibly rich. I lament that BG's is so far from T-Town, as these guys SMOKE the competition in Southern Arizona. The service is also snappy and thorough and the ambience old school western kitsch. We are definitely coming back for the four-tiered Belly Buster challenge and the Wednesday night all-you-can-eat ribs. Just take a look at the motorized smoker in the back for an idea of how seriously these guys take the art of the grill. Unbeatable!
(5)Jerry G.
Stopped in here on my way back into town from San Manuel. A riding buddy had suggested it and had been here several times. I got the world famous pulled pork sandwich with beans as my side. The food was very good and the service was great. They had a 3 BBQ sauces - a mild, their house special (a little spicy) and a southern mustard. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the warm apple cinnamon crisp. They used apple pie filling, which was not bad, but it was the fried tortilla shell that disappointed me. I was expected more a traditional apple crisp. I will swing by again some day when I am in the area, but next time I will try something else for dessert.
(4)jack q.
Delicious pulled pork, ribs and chicken w/decent sides. Loved their sauces The service was pretty good, too, and the prices were pretty much a bargain for the amount of food they give you. Lip-smacking!
(4)Hugo M.
I am a bit of a BBQ snob after living in the BBQ Mecca for 11 years "Memphis" and I am an avid tender of the smoker myself. This was our first vist here since we moved back to town. The queen and I came in after the dinner crush albeit it still had a sizable crowd still so i dont know how they do service wise under a big dinner rush. Our server was attentive almost to the point of "bird dogging us" He was great. Our dinner was great though The wife ordered salad with fried chicken on it and it was of good size and very fresh. I ordered the two meat plate and i opted for low carb sides though i wanted the other sides badly hehehe. The brisket was very tender and the smoke ring on it was very pronounced and seasoned in a way that compliments the cut of meat. The other meat was pulled pork I will have to revisit that item again for a better review because I think it was suffering from post dinner rush " hurry and get more pork cooked" although it was tasty the smokiness was light and and the seasoning was lacking. Im not saying it was a bad product I just think i need to try again earlier in the evening. all in all its a good atmosphere and good value. Kudos.
(4)Jeff R.
I arrived early and there were only three people, at one table, in the place. The "manager" or host spent several minutes talking with them while I stood "waiting to be seated". Several employees seemed to notice me, but none took the initiative to ask if I was there to eat. At my "patience has run out point" a server finally came over and took me to a table. She did a good job and the catfish dinner I had was ok. Fish and fries were good. Hush puppies a waste of the calories- hard, luke warm and tasteless. When I left, the "manager" and one of his employees were busy doing something on a dumb phone so I left without suggesting he pay more attention to potential customers. Who knows how many have walked out instead of waiting.
(2)K M.
Ya know I forgot to review this place a while back, so this is based on a visit from November. Have had BBQ in various spots through the country including the BBQ belt of the south. We were on the far NW side of town, far from our home, and looking for a place to eat and watch a football game and this place was really a surprise, meats, wings, fries. So far the best BBQ I have had in Tucson. Four-and-a-half stars plus 1/2 star for the surprise.
(5)O G.
So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the area. We liked it so much I stop by when in the area traveling which by the way is over an hour for me The Food: Large selection on menu the pork is excellent, and the brisket is good. I had the brisket twice now and the first time it was better it was little dry this time. Service can be more focus on the customer. So stop and check it out.
(4)Wendi H.
Best BBQ ever! The brisket, ribs, pulled pork, it's was to die for. And we had the best waitress ever. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives needs to pay this place a visit!
(5)O G.
So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the area. We liked it so much I stop by when in the area traveling which by the way is over an hour for me The Food: Large selection on menu the pork is excellent, and the brisket is good. I had the brisket twice now and the first time it was better it was little dry this time. Service can be more focus on the customer. So stop and check it out.
(4)J Marie S.
Stopped by while in the area, anxious to try the Wisconsin cheese curds and some good bbq. The curds were obviously frozen, hard and flavorless. We tried two different 2-meat dinners. Brisket was okay, everything else was mediocre. Side of mac & cheese was like pasta with cheese whiz. Will take a trip a bit further into Oro Valley next time and leave Bubb's in the rear view mirror.
(2)Tracy S.
If you like BBQ and you are near Catalina a trip to Bubb's Grub would be a place to check out. I will be honest I am not a BBQ expert and have not searched long and hard for the worlds perfect BBQ but the stuff I had the other night with my Bro in Law was pretty tasty. We started the meal with a basket of Tabasco O-Rings which were tasty but nothing out of the ordinary and Cheese Curds which I would definitely pass (I am a cheese curd snob being from WI and these were nothing more to me then mozz stick bites). Then came the BBQ - I got the 3 meat platter and choose Shredded Pork Shoulder, Texas Hot Links and Brisket. All the meats where very tasty and the portions were substantial. I choose to pair them with a mixture of the BBQ sauce available (sorry no names where given to describe so I can't pass that along but my favorite was the yellowish one). The side ideas where a little less to be desired Mac and Cheese (I have had WAY better and Potato Salad. The serves was not bad, not great. It was later in the evening so people were getting there stuff done to get out of there. By the end of the meal the bus girl was more attentive then the waiter but there was never a point I needed something that I didn't get. All in all a good experience. Although this won't be on my list of places to rush back to if I am in the mood for BBQ I would make the trek back. Things to know before you go, the place closes pretty early (for my dining standards) 8 Sun - Thur and 9 on Fri and Sat and the place clears out so if you are thinking about going make sure you are going earlier vs later
(3)elvin b.
The prime rib special was okay, but pricey for the atmosphere which is stripmallish. Wooden Indians which aren't authentic for the area. Lots of the specials are midwestern barbecue which is rather strange considering you're in the middle of the Southwest. What really bummed me out is that I ordered a Tequila Sunrise and EVERWHERE I have had this drink in Arizona the tecquila has tasted decent even though it has not been top shelf. Maybe its because it was happy hour and they were trying to cut corners? Maybe it's because the owner is from Minnesota? I don't know, buit the stuff tasted like rot gut. I couldn't even drink more than a few sips. Yuck. The waiter should have asked me what was wrong and offered to replace the drink but he didn't, well too bad because his tip reflected that. Oh and I've tasted better fries at Burger King.
(2)Gretchen B.
Went for the Friday night fish fry. The owner is from WI. If the reviewer from CA had looked around with a shred of wisdom he would have seen WI team gear all over the place along with western stuff. Vince Lombardi meets Tom Mix. The place was very busy but the seating arrangements fair and quick. The bar is a fun place to wait and relax with an adult beverage. The fish fry was first rate. Just out of the fryer, sides good to adequate, portions generous, and priced right. We spend the winter in Tucson and the place is a decent replica of a WI Northwoods supper club. Will try the other grup at a future visit. If you miss the BTN they have it on multiple tv's.
(4)Sharon C.
We went on a Friday night a little later around 7:30. Service was terrible. The waitress acted like she had a date waiting and couldn't get us out fast enough. I ordered soup while the other 3 ordered meals. After ordering she came back and said "the kitchen was closing and there was no more soup. I asked about chili - nope that was not available. So I ordered a patty melt with a salad. All orders came without the patty melt. I told the waitress when she returned and was told that it was too bad but the kitchen was closed and the cook wouldn't make it! We were stunned but service had been so rude we just wanted to get out. My friend shared her sandwich and we left. The food was bar food average to,poor. The staff was already cleaning around us as we finished although it was still early for a Friday night. I guess they all had somewhere else to be.
(1)Mark H.
I use Yelp reguarly when I am away to find good places to eat. I have never taken the time to write a review. But, this place was so bad I had to, in hopes of saving someone else $30. I hate to be debbie downer here...but I did not like this place. At all. I wanted to. I wanted to at least find something positive. If I had to, I guess the service was efficient.....not busy at all, almost closing time, service was effective. On the other hand, when food was 80% uneaten, they could have questioned and possibly tried to make a substitute. Ohhhh wait, the Texas toast was good. I am a Texas transplant and am very accustomed to outstanding bbq. This was not it.I started with the burnts and ends appetizer. Was more like all fat pieces. I got the 3 meat plate. No meats were good. I got brisket, sausage and pork. Didnt try the ribs, so no opinion on that. We also had chili....two bites were gone and that was enough to realize it was not what we wanted. Mac and Cheese was literally cold, and even if it was hot, it wouldnt make much of a difference in the taste and quality. French fries were the other side. No comment on those. If this is the best the Tucson area has for BBQ, then stick with sonoran dogs and save some money.
(1)Chuck D.
Neither sophisticated or elegant, Bubb's has awesome food and great service. Bubb's starts with a real smoker located behind the restaurant - the first requirement of any good BBQ. The ribs are meaty and tender. My personal favorite is a rack of beef ribs. They are big and good. My wife's favorite is the smoked prime rib (available on weekends) which is unique and excellent. The meat combinations, including chicken, provide just about all you could want. Sides are good. Sports fans will find the bar a good place to keep up with your team.
(5)joe y.
This my friends is the real deal! As anyone knows, the best bbq places have a roll of paper towel on every table! The place is the perfect atmosphere; cozy -southern- southwestern- combo of everything bbq! We did the tobacco onions for a starter- dip then in the southwestern mustard... Perfect! Main courses consisted of a pulled pork sandwich, two meat entree (brisket and pulled pork), chef salad with pulled pork, and the full rack of ribs. (everyone told me they loved their meals... I had the ribs... THE BEST I'VE HAD SINCE I CAN REMEMBER! And that's saying alot, because ribs are one of my favorite, most scrutinized meals!) Of course (like any great bbq place) the sides were a perfect compliment. Spicy baked beans, cole slaw, spiced red potatoes. The kiddos had mac and cheese, beans, and chicken tenders... If your kid is quiet and eating their meal non stop, you've hit a jackpot! Too full for desert, but the ice cream coming out of that kitchen is another reason for me to be back! No wonder the sign boasts "award winning bbq"!
(5)David D.
This was my first visit to BG after driving by too many times and always noticing a fairly full parking lot. That's typically a good sign. My cuz and I both had the pulled pork sandwich which was awesome. He had potato salad and I had cole slow which were both very good. Alyssa was our server and was very attentive. Decor and background music both very nice. I'll be back.
(4)Amy W.
Here's a tip for you Tucson natives, get Bubb's Grub to cater your thanksgiving! I was visiting my bf's family and that's what they did. Apparently you have to sign up a bit early b/c they have a limited number of meals to go for thanksgiving, but YOWZA. Cranberry fluff, I'm still talking about it 1 year later! The turkey was smoked (natch!) and there was enough food to feed an army. It seems to me the pricing was reasonable too, but I don't remember what we paid.
(4)E. A.
This is one of he best BBQ places in the region. His sauce is a spicy savory winner. The brisket and ribs were perfect!
(4)Barbara L.
This is one of the best restaurants in the Tucson area. We drive out there at least once a week to have the fish fry on Friday or eat steak on a different night. Review written by Dale Hulvey of Barter Tucson.
(5)Adrian A.
I have been enjoying Bubb's Grub for several years and have never been disappointed with the food or the friendly service. I have always found the meat to tasty and well prepared (the brisket is my favorite) and sides equally good (I usually choose beans and potatoes). In addition to great barbecue I would recommend their Friday fish fry. On a side note... Bubb's Grub also actively sponsors and donates to local youth sports teams.
(5)Kassi E.
This place is great for the BBQ. We were there for an event and the service was quick and easy for 20+ people hanging out. No one said anything was bad and I had the brisket. Awesome place!
(5)Francis E.
Found this place by just driving by! WOW! Was very impressed with the food, the only thing is that i wish there had been just a touch more on my plate. left kinda hungry, i suppose i could go to the all you can eat BBQ that they have? lol
(4)Cindy N.
I'm usually a "healthy eater", however, once in a while I do crave the "What's not so good for you" and gobble it down unabashedly. The main sins in this area, for me are Sonoran Hot Dogs or BBQ. Thanks to all my Yelp writers I had chosen Bubb's Grub to quell my mouth watering desire for some real Texas BBQ. We made the long trek out to Catalina from the North side of town to test out the pretty nice reviews I had seen on Yelp. The place was cool with a Texas style Ranch House. Comfortable booths plus a real Western style ambiance. I was pretty ticked off when we had to pay $3.00 extra to share a meal but it was written all over the menu. They came out with the order in about 2 minutes which led me to wonder how that was possible. The shock came when the pulled pork and the brisket portions were tiny. Also a small amount of fries as well as the cole slaw. Let's not forget the one slice of Texas toast. Let me first say that everything was tasty . I asked the manager about the small portions and he commented that prices are high on meat so therefore the portions reflect that. He came back with some extra meat. Our waitress was so apologetic and extra sweet. She genuinely wanted us to have a good experience. She personally gives most of her customers her own chocolates with the bill. I believe her name was Lurenna. Works there on weekends. The place was crowded so I guess it's popular up in Catalina. Still I love to try different places out, rule some in and some out. That's what Yelp is all about. Because it is a far distance, I'm not sure if I would make the trip up there. If you live closer you won't be disappointed. Huge menu and many choices.
(3)Chuck P.
OK, this is the best place for hearty mouthwatering food in little ol' Catalina. Meat lovers dream with fabulous sides!
(3)Marni A.
Great pulled pork sandwiches. The Bloody Mary's are to die for. Great tobacco onion. Service is fast and friendly. Price are very resonable. This is worth the drive. Best bbq I have had in Tucson. I will be taking my out of town visitors here.
(5)Stephen G.
This is the best BBQ place in town now that Brundogs has cut its menu to a mere shadow of its former self. All the meats have a succulent BBQ flavor and the sauce is a perfect complement to the meat. Sides are terrific too. Too bad it is so far from my house. Wait, maybe it is a good thing. If it was closer, I'd eat there more often and I'd be as big as a house.
(5)Rob T.
Been going to Bubb's when I visit my parents for years. Good BBQ (especially the pulled pork), awesome Friday Fish Fry, and we've never had bad service. Great owners too, they really love what they do. Breakfast during tourist season is a nice touch too. Nothing like a BBQ pork omelet to fortify for the day! Oh, and that new Southern Style Mustard BBQ sauce... so good.
(5)Peter G.
Bubb's Grub is really good Texas smoked Bar-B-Q done over Pecan wood. The ribs, and brisket are wonderful. The pulled Pork not too bad, and the smoked chicken a bit dry, but very tasty. Their hot BBQ sauce is super. Great for lunch, as it is quiet; dinner I am told is packed.
(4)James B.
Not a lot of competition out there in Catalina but this place is worth going to if you like BBQ. Nice service and atmosphere.
(3)Don B.
If you are going for the walleye expect small portion and high price. If you want fish fry expect average price and small portions. Small cole slaw. Small amount of fries. I actually counted my fries there were so few. (14). Regular size not steak fries. Three pieces of cod. Small pieces. Not all you can eat. I have had fish fries in Wisconsin Minnesota and other places in Tucson. This one is poor at best. I hear there BBQ is good. Try that instead.
(2)David V.
amazing prime rib on Saturdays!! must have been here 20 times and quality is always exactly same. staff very nice. we drive 20 plus miles just to have a great bbq diner
(5)Jeff G.
Ok, I was at this place last year and it was great. This year I come back and it was horrible. BBQ was ok, nothing to write home about. The worst part of the meal was the desert. I ordered the apple crisp for $6.25. Now I'm all about desert and I don't mind the price if it's ok but....this was a joke. Basically it was a tortilla the size of a Dorito with a table spoon of ice cream. The guy forgot the apples but brought them on a plate freshly heated up in the microwave. They should be embarrassed.
(1)Eliza B.
Most disappointing experience I ever had. Prime rib was disgusting. Not cooked correctly, very fatty, Ran out of Blue Moon at 5:30 pm on a Saturday evening, Waitress asked if we wanted dessert before our dinner arrived. No communication or organization. Will never eat here again. ~The Hoginator
(1)Jessica H.
We came in, we were greeted right away. I had the peel and eat shrimp(it was cooked perfectly) and ribs. It was wonderful. The ribs fell off the bone. The sauce was very good. My husband had mac and cheese( we both liked it) and beans(loved those) he had three meats, chicken, he said was cook great and two others. We would come back again. I liked the food, service and it was a clean place and what I loved, someone who worked their opened the door for me!!!! If you have not been here in awhile, i think you should give this place a chance again!!!!
(4)Joe P.
I had head a lot of great reviews for this place. But all I can say that my visit there was disappointing. I ordered the two meat combo (brisket and pulled pork shoulder). The brisket was bland, no taste to it whatsoever. The pulled pork was a slight bit better, but it was drowned in some kind of sauce. The sides of corn along with Mac and cheese did nothing to enhance the meal. The corn tasted like it was out of a can. While the Mac and cheese tasted like it was made from velveeta. I really thought from the reviews I heard that this would be awesome. But the food fell short of being okay.
(2)Kilbey K.
I've only had the food here a couple of times but have had an assortment of items to say that the food is delicious. Stopped in the first time to watch a Seahawks game and sat at the bar. Brittany was the bartender and was friendly, courteous and more than competent. I will definitely be going back to watch some football and have some great food.
(5)Jerry M.
First timer! Great food and Great service, what more could you ask for? Definitely recommend the Belt Buster, if you're feeling daring. Also loved the pull pork, sliced brisket and ribs. Waitress was very polite and on top of things, keeping or drinks full at ALL times. Bbq sauce is good, more pepper flavor than sweet. Recommend giving it a shot!
(4)Elizabeth C.
Don't bother! Not worth the trip. The food is consistently horrible and the sides are all carbs unless you want to pay more for a salad that is nothing to write home about. Don't bother asking for any adjustments or complaining, the owner is very curt and nasty.
(1)Matt M.
We live in the area & frequent Bubbs quite a lot. Good BBQ food, love the pulled pork & burnt ends & pieces. Also enjoy the fish fry on Friday. The smoke flavor is great and the house made mustard bbq sauce & bubbs sauce are some of our family favorites!
(5)Jess H.
A great variety of different smoked meats (which are smoked overnight on premises). Everything is tasty and fresh. Friendly and fast service. They have a lot of TV's and are always willing to find your game if your team is playing. On Sunday mornings they serve breakfast (try the Bubb's bagel or breakfast cheeseburger). Great place for Friday fish fry or prime rib on Saturday nights.
(5)Keith Z.
The brisket and pulled pork were old and dry. Chicken was dry. Ribs were tender. Service was very good.
(3)Tracy P.
I lived in Texas for a few years and I've had my share of good and bad BBQ and this place passed my "Texas" test for both food and decor. I'll definitely go back. Excellent brisket & pulled pork. Pretty good links and sides. My only complaint is that I'd like to have a sweeter, smoky sauce but their sauces were pretty good.
(4)Daniel K.
If you have been to almost any bbq place then you will be familiar with the style. The atmosphere of this place is traditional "BBQ" western ranch house style. We stopped here on our way to the Ford dealership and it was a pleasant surprise. So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the Tucson area. We liked it so much we went again a week later when we came up to buy the car from the dealer in Oracle and we brought friends the second time. If it was closer to Tucson then we would go more often. Food: this is why we eat out at places like this, to enjoy juicy meats and tasty sauces. This place hits the head of the nail. Both times I ordered the three meat platter and I have to say that their chicken is wonderful. The private label sauce is one of the best that I have had. My only regret is that I didn't buy a bottle to bring home. Guess we will have to go again :-)
(4)Mike F.
Excellent Friday Fish Fry and "Burnt Ends". The "ends" give you an idea of how good the BBQ is, but the Fish Fry is the best I have had outside of Wisconsin. I have had both the Cod and Walleye. Excellent Service, need Miller Lite on tap, full beer selection is good, lots of TVs to catch up on games.
(5)John D.
Bubb's Grub is a surprisingly stellar BBQ place. I say surprisingly because although the plates are generous, the side dishes that are included with the meals are much less interesting than the BBQ itself. The fries are just Ortega fries that are cooked in-house, the red potatoes are just two simple boiled potatoes, and the mac and cheese tastes like squeeze cheese. These sides really aren't bad, they just taste more like something you could make at home rather than something prepared in a restaurant. But the BBQ is amazing. One bite of my brisket sandwich and I knew I was coming back to Bubb's Grub. The housemade BBQ sauce is perfect (and on sale at the restaurant) and the preparation of the meat is nothing short of fantastic. I can't say enough about how good this BBQ is. This is easily the best BBQ I've had in Tucson (or Catalina to be specific) so far.
(4)Chuck D.
Neither sophisticated or elegant, Bubb's has awesome food and great service. Bubb's starts with a real smoker located behind the restaurant - the first requirement of any good BBQ. The ribs are meaty and tender. My personal favorite is a rack of beef ribs. They are big and good. My wife's favorite is the smoked prime rib (available on weekends) which is unique and excellent. The meat combinations, including chicken, provide just about all you could want. Sides are good. Sports fans will find the bar a good place to keep up with your team.
(5)Mary S.
I called for a to-go order at 8:30 on a Saturday night. I was informed by the very rude lady who answered the phone that the kitchen was closing in a few minutes. I asked her if that was a no then. She asked how far away i was. I replied less than 10 Minutes. She replied no the kitchen is closed... I believe that the hours posted say closed at 9pm. I have frequented Bubb's Grub on many occasions. The food is excellent, but after this i will not be returning. The key to running a successful business is good service.
(1)Richard h.
We had high hopes for this place, but were disappointed. Menu items: Burnt Ends and Pieces were basically chunks of fat. Brisket was not tender and very fatty, more so than any brisket we have ever had. Pulled pork was OK but nothing to write home about. All in all the experience was below average. A long way to drive and certainly not worth the World Famous accolade. Wish we have gone to Famous Dave's!
(2)Larry J.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner. A wide range of menu choices with good service at a reasonable price. BBQ is their specialty but everything is really good. My favorite is their 1/2 lb. Burger.
(4)joe y.
This my friends is the real deal! As anyone knows, the best bbq places have a roll of paper towel on every table! The place is the perfect atmosphere; cozy -southern- southwestern- combo of everything bbq! We did the tobacco onions for a starter- dip then in the southwestern mustard... Perfect! Main courses consisted of a pulled pork sandwich, two meat entree (brisket and pulled pork), chef salad with pulled pork, and the full rack of ribs. (everyone told me they loved their meals... I had the ribs... THE BEST I'VE HAD SINCE I CAN REMEMBER! And that's saying alot, because ribs are one of my favorite, most scrutinized meals!) Of course (like any great bbq place) the sides were a perfect compliment. Spicy baked beans, cole slaw, spiced red potatoes. The kiddos had mac and cheese, beans, and chicken tenders... If your kid is quiet and eating their meal non stop, you've hit a jackpot! Too full for desert, but the ice cream coming out of that kitchen is another reason for me to be back! No wonder the sign boasts "award winning bbq"!
(5)John D.
Hand down the best pulled pork I have ever eaten. From the first fork full I knew it was love at first bite. This stuff was porkalicious! I added just a little of the BBQ sauce that Bubb's makes and I was devouring my plate. The BBQ sauce was so good I decided to risk it and bring 2 bottles back home. If you are in Oro Valley / Catalina area this place is a MUST ! Service was polite and efficient.
(5)David D.
This was my first visit to BG after driving by too many times and always noticing a fairly full parking lot. That's typically a good sign. My cuz and I both had the pulled pork sandwich which was awesome. He had potato salad and I had cole slow which were both very good. Alyssa was our server and was very attentive. Decor and background music both very nice. I'll be back.
(4)Saba B.
Best. Smoked. Andouille. Sausage. Ever...More superlatives come to mind as I relive the decadent taste of Bubb's pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, and pork brisket trio. Nothing is an afterthought here. Even BG's signature BBQ sauce is sweet, spicy, and impossibly rich. I lament that BG's is so far from T-Town, as these guys SMOKE the competition in Southern Arizona. The service is also snappy and thorough and the ambience old school western kitsch. We are definitely coming back for the four-tiered Belly Buster challenge and the Wednesday night all-you-can-eat ribs. Just take a look at the motorized smoker in the back for an idea of how seriously these guys take the art of the grill. Unbeatable!
(5)Barbara L.
This is one of the best restaurants in the Tucson area. We drive out there at least once a week to have the fish fry on Friday or eat steak on a different night. Review written by Dale Hulvey of Barter Tucson.
(5)Adrian A.
I have been enjoying Bubb's Grub for several years and have never been disappointed with the food or the friendly service. I have always found the meat to tasty and well prepared (the brisket is my favorite) and sides equally good (I usually choose beans and potatoes). In addition to great barbecue I would recommend their Friday fish fry. On a side note... Bubb's Grub also actively sponsors and donates to local youth sports teams.
(5)Kassi E.
This place is great for the BBQ. We were there for an event and the service was quick and easy for 20+ people hanging out. No one said anything was bad and I had the brisket. Awesome place!
(5)Francis E.
Found this place by just driving by! WOW! Was very impressed with the food, the only thing is that i wish there had been just a touch more on my plate. left kinda hungry, i suppose i could go to the all you can eat BBQ that they have? lol
(4)K M.
Ya know I forgot to review this place a while back, so this is based on a visit from November. Have had BBQ in various spots through the country including the BBQ belt of the south. We were on the far NW side of town, far from our home, and looking for a place to eat and watch a football game and this place was really a surprise, meats, wings, fries. So far the best BBQ I have had in Tucson. Four-and-a-half stars plus 1/2 star for the surprise.
(5)Mark H.
I use Yelp reguarly when I am away to find good places to eat. I have never taken the time to write a review. But, this place was so bad I had to, in hopes of saving someone else $30. I hate to be debbie downer here...but I did not like this place. At all. I wanted to. I wanted to at least find something positive. If I had to, I guess the service was efficient.....not busy at all, almost closing time, service was effective. On the other hand, when food was 80% uneaten, they could have questioned and possibly tried to make a substitute. Ohhhh wait, the Texas toast was good. I am a Texas transplant and am very accustomed to outstanding bbq. This was not it.I started with the burnts and ends appetizer. Was more like all fat pieces. I got the 3 meat plate. No meats were good. I got brisket, sausage and pork. Didnt try the ribs, so no opinion on that. We also had chili....two bites were gone and that was enough to realize it was not what we wanted. Mac and Cheese was literally cold, and even if it was hot, it wouldnt make much of a difference in the taste and quality. French fries were the other side. No comment on those. If this is the best the Tucson area has for BBQ, then stick with sonoran dogs and save some money.
(1)Brandon S.
Those who live in Tucson are VERY LUCKY to have Bubb's Grub!!!! SERIOUSLY LUCKY!!!!!! I love BBQ and search for joints in every city I visit. I've been lucky enough to have dined numerous times on some of the finest Texas BBQ in Austin, Texas- Stubs, Rudy's...etc Bubb's Grub is REAL DEAL Texas BBQ! I'm from SoCal and can't find REAL Texas bbq here.....some good bbq, but nothing that brings back memories and flavors of Texas. I was visiting Tucson last week and drove north just wandering around......I saw a small restaurant in the middle of nowhere (ok, I'm from SoCal.....this seemed like the middle of nowhere) it had a big sign that said "WORLD CHAMPION BBQ" with a big painting of Texas on it...... I went back to my hotel and told the wife that we were having bbq for dinner. If you see a restaurant that says "World Champion".....YOU MUST STOP AND EAT. My order was take out so my review is for the food only. It turns out they were world champion for their bbq sauce and pulled pork....I think in 1998, forgive me if I'm wrong. The pride and joy of Texas bbq is brisket.....this was some of the best brisket I have EVER had; almost tender enough to cut with my plastic fork, a nice amount of fat running thru the meat, incredibly juicy, and the smokey flavor, spice, and crust was out of this world...BRAVO Bubb's!!!! YOU ROCK!!!! You must be proud of your brisket to offer "burnt corners and pieces" as an appetizer! Oh I wish I had 2 stomachs that night! I also had the pulled pork.....Fantastic, and the bbq chicken....Fantastic... The beans were great, smokey, and spicy, not sweet. Their bbq sauce is just wonderful, their spicy bbq sauce is wonderful, and their mustard bbq sauce is wonderful. Some say a bbq sauce is truly special when you would consider drinking it just by itself......Bubb's is pretty damn close! The menu is huge and has so much variety....but since I had only one chance I ordered the staples to test their Texas authenticity. There are plenty of sandwiches, appetizers, salads, and sides. The staff was very friendly and helpful with all my nerdy bbq questions. I loved Bubb's so much that I would certainly pay to overnight their food to my home in SoCal. I've done this once before from a North Carolina bbq joint....that's how much I love bbq! They even serve Texas toast!! I just feel like cursing right now.....F&^K YEAH Bubb's! If you live in Tucson and eat here all the time....I ask you to slap yourself once in a while before you sit down at Bubb's to appreciate and remember how lucky you are to have this quality of bbq in your home town. AMAZING! I WILL BE BACK!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Bubb's!
(5)Bill B.
Who cares about the ambience, etc. The food is mouthwatering! The pulled pork equals the very best that can be found in the Carolinas and I have not been able to find brisket that good in Texas outside of a competition. The chicken is moist and the links are truly hot. I'm not a fan of dry-rub ribs so, I'll leave that for others to judge. If you like either Southern or Texas BBQ, go here. Both styles are done superbly. You won't be disappointed and the proprietor has the competition awards to back up the excellent food.
(5)Andrew M.
Had dinner with the family while vacationing in Tucson during spring break. I am an aficionado of pork spare ribs, but I'd have to give Bubb's only a 3 star rating for their pork ribs. Good spare ribs fall off the bone. These didn't. They were not really tough, per se, but they just weren't as tender as I would have expected for a place that specializes in ribs. On a lark I also ordered some beef ribs, which were not good at all - maybe a 2 star rating on the beef ribs. They were tough and fatty, with little flavor other than smoke. Bubb's regular BBQ sauce was too hot for everyone in our group, and their mild sauce was a but too vinegary and somewhat sour for the adult tastes in our group. The kids flat out couldn't eat either the mild or the hot sauce. It would have been great if Bubb had a sweet / smoky style of BBQ sauce for those with that taste preference. The sides were good, although nothing to go crazy about. The ambiance was good - nice local flavor. Overall, not a bad experience, but not a great one either.
(3)elvin b.
The prime rib special was okay, but pricey for the atmosphere which is stripmallish. Wooden Indians which aren't authentic for the area. Lots of the specials are midwestern barbecue which is rather strange considering you're in the middle of the Southwest. What really bummed me out is that I ordered a Tequila Sunrise and EVERWHERE I have had this drink in Arizona the tecquila has tasted decent even though it has not been top shelf. Maybe its because it was happy hour and they were trying to cut corners? Maybe it's because the owner is from Minnesota? I don't know, buit the stuff tasted like rot gut. I couldn't even drink more than a few sips. Yuck. The waiter should have asked me what was wrong and offered to replace the drink but he didn't, well too bad because his tip reflected that. Oh and I've tasted better fries at Burger King.
(2)Gretchen B.
Went for the Friday night fish fry. The owner is from WI. If the reviewer from CA had looked around with a shred of wisdom he would have seen WI team gear all over the place along with western stuff. Vince Lombardi meets Tom Mix. The place was very busy but the seating arrangements fair and quick. The bar is a fun place to wait and relax with an adult beverage. The fish fry was first rate. Just out of the fryer, sides good to adequate, portions generous, and priced right. We spend the winter in Tucson and the place is a decent replica of a WI Northwoods supper club. Will try the other grup at a future visit. If you miss the BTN they have it on multiple tv's.
(4)Brandon S.
Those who live in Tucson are VERY LUCKY to have Bubb's Grub!!!! SERIOUSLY LUCKY!!!!!! I love BBQ and search for joints in every city I visit. I've been lucky enough to have dined numerous times on some of the finest Texas BBQ in Austin, Texas- Stubs, Rudy's...etc Bubb's Grub is REAL DEAL Texas BBQ! I'm from SoCal and can't find REAL Texas bbq here.....some good bbq, but nothing that brings back memories and flavors of Texas. I was visiting Tucson last week and drove north just wandering around......I saw a small restaurant in the middle of nowhere (ok, I'm from SoCal.....this seemed like the middle of nowhere) it had a big sign that said "WORLD CHAMPION BBQ" with a big painting of Texas on it...... I went back to my hotel and told the wife that we were having bbq for dinner. If you see a restaurant that says "World Champion".....YOU MUST STOP AND EAT. My order was take out so my review is for the food only. It turns out they were world champion for their bbq sauce and pulled pork....I think in 1998, forgive me if I'm wrong. The pride and joy of Texas bbq is brisket.....this was some of the best brisket I have EVER had; almost tender enough to cut with my plastic fork, a nice amount of fat running thru the meat, incredibly juicy, and the smokey flavor, spice, and crust was out of this world...BRAVO Bubb's!!!! YOU ROCK!!!! You must be proud of your brisket to offer "burnt corners and pieces" as an appetizer! Oh I wish I had 2 stomachs that night! I also had the pulled pork.....Fantastic, and the bbq chicken....Fantastic... The beans were great, smokey, and spicy, not sweet. Their bbq sauce is just wonderful, their spicy bbq sauce is wonderful, and their mustard bbq sauce is wonderful. Some say a bbq sauce is truly special when you would consider drinking it just by itself......Bubb's is pretty damn close! The menu is huge and has so much variety....but since I had only one chance I ordered the staples to test their Texas authenticity. There are plenty of sandwiches, appetizers, salads, and sides. The staff was very friendly and helpful with all my nerdy bbq questions. I loved Bubb's so much that I would certainly pay to overnight their food to my home in SoCal. I've done this once before from a North Carolina bbq joint....that's how much I love bbq! They even serve Texas toast!! I just feel like cursing right now.....F&^K YEAH Bubb's! If you live in Tucson and eat here all the time....I ask you to slap yourself once in a while before you sit down at Bubb's to appreciate and remember how lucky you are to have this quality of bbq in your home town. AMAZING! I WILL BE BACK!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Bubb's!
(5)Bill B.
Who cares about the ambience, etc. The food is mouthwatering! The pulled pork equals the very best that can be found in the Carolinas and I have not been able to find brisket that good in Texas outside of a competition. The chicken is moist and the links are truly hot. I'm not a fan of dry-rub ribs so, I'll leave that for others to judge. If you like either Southern or Texas BBQ, go here. Both styles are done superbly. You won't be disappointed and the proprietor has the competition awards to back up the excellent food.
(5)Jerry G.
Stopped in here on my way back into town from San Manuel. A riding buddy had suggested it and had been here several times. I got the world famous pulled pork sandwich with beans as my side. The food was very good and the service was great. They had a 3 BBQ sauces - a mild, their house special (a little spicy) and a southern mustard. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the warm apple cinnamon crisp. They used apple pie filling, which was not bad, but it was the fried tortilla shell that disappointed me. I was expected more a traditional apple crisp. I will swing by again some day when I am in the area, but next time I will try something else for dessert.
(4)Amy W.
Here's a tip for you Tucson natives, get Bubb's Grub to cater your thanksgiving! I was visiting my bf's family and that's what they did. Apparently you have to sign up a bit early b/c they have a limited number of meals to go for thanksgiving, but YOWZA. Cranberry fluff, I'm still talking about it 1 year later! The turkey was smoked (natch!) and there was enough food to feed an army. It seems to me the pricing was reasonable too, but I don't remember what we paid.
(4)Stephen G.
This is the best BBQ place in town now that Brundogs has cut its menu to a mere shadow of its former self. All the meats have a succulent BBQ flavor and the sauce is a perfect complement to the meat. Sides are terrific too. Too bad it is so far from my house. Wait, maybe it is a good thing. If it was closer, I'd eat there more often and I'd be as big as a house.
(5)Rob T.
Been going to Bubb's when I visit my parents for years. Good BBQ (especially the pulled pork), awesome Friday Fish Fry, and we've never had bad service. Great owners too, they really love what they do. Breakfast during tourist season is a nice touch too. Nothing like a BBQ pork omelet to fortify for the day! Oh, and that new Southern Style Mustard BBQ sauce... so good.
(5)Peter G.
Bubb's Grub is really good Texas smoked Bar-B-Q done over Pecan wood. The ribs, and brisket are wonderful. The pulled Pork not too bad, and the smoked chicken a bit dry, but very tasty. Their hot BBQ sauce is super. Great for lunch, as it is quiet; dinner I am told is packed.
(4)James B.
Not a lot of competition out there in Catalina but this place is worth going to if you like BBQ. Nice service and atmosphere.
(3)Andrew M.
Had dinner with the family while vacationing in Tucson during spring break. I am an aficionado of pork spare ribs, but I'd have to give Bubb's only a 3 star rating for their pork ribs. Good spare ribs fall off the bone. These didn't. They were not really tough, per se, but they just weren't as tender as I would have expected for a place that specializes in ribs. On a lark I also ordered some beef ribs, which were not good at all - maybe a 2 star rating on the beef ribs. They were tough and fatty, with little flavor other than smoke. Bubb's regular BBQ sauce was too hot for everyone in our group, and their mild sauce was a but too vinegary and somewhat sour for the adult tastes in our group. The kids flat out couldn't eat either the mild or the hot sauce. It would have been great if Bubb had a sweet / smoky style of BBQ sauce for those with that taste preference. The sides were good, although nothing to go crazy about. The ambiance was good - nice local flavor. Overall, not a bad experience, but not a great one either.
(3)Peter H.
We decided to give this place a try even though it was a long way from where we live. I was pretty excited when I learned that they had Walleye on the menu. Having lived most of my life in Minnesota I have eaten a lot of Walleye. That is not a very common menu item here in the Southwest. Found out that the owners were from Wisconsin, which would explain the all the packer items about the place. The service was friendly but could have been a bit more knowledgable. The food was ok not great and not bad I think my walleye was a bit over cooked. We might try Bub's again if we happen to be in this part of town (its almost an hour oneway from our home). I might even give the Walleye a second chance.
(3)Kerry C.
Food was ok, but was blown away when I learned the corkage fee was $15. That is a major rip!
(2)Jennifer S.
Best ribs around! Great service and nice atmosphere! They have the best BBQ sauces and the mustard BBQ sauce is made in house! You won't be disappointed!!!
(5)J R.
The food was mediocre at best. It isn't a very busy night and the service is a snails pace. Prices for the meal are expensive for what you get. Two elderly gentleman came into the bar area with bottle of water that where approx 75% consumed. The bartender asked them to remove the beverages or leave the restaurant. Also, veterans, active duty, and law enforcement.... Don't bother asking if there's a discount. Save your $, go to Famous Dave's instead!
(2)Karl S.
After almost a decade of visiting the Tucson area (for some reason Catalina reminds me of Wasilla...) finally visited Bubb's Grubb. Good BBQ. Unpretentious, old timey western decor. Would have been comfortable with dirt on the floor, but health codes demand otherwise. Jalepeno poppers for the appetizer. Fresh, hot and spicy. Some tap beer and a full bar. No craft beers on tap, but it's not about the beer. It's about the meat.Two meat BBQ for her, three meat for me. Consensus ranking: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage.I liked the brisket. Well done, thin sliced, smokey flavor and a rind of flavorful fat. Cholesterol be damned. Sausage not bad, but I was outvoted. Sides obviously not out of a can. Good, stick to your ribs cooking'. No room for dessert. Next time!
(4)V F T.
Been there several times but the food isn't all that great and nor is the service. The BBQ is a poor example of what passes as just average in Texas. However they do have ice cold beer.
(1)Jason L.
BBQ heaven in Catalina! I absolutely love this BBQ joint and it is totally worth the 15 minute drive from my house. From Ina and Oracle just drive north and you will come to the unassuming Bubb's Grub but do not be fooled this place serves up some of the best BBQ in the Tucson metro area! I have been here a handful of times, all Fridays, except for today. This was the first time I actually ordered anything BBQ as I normally ordered the Fish Fry. Today I went all out and ordered the full rack of ribs (like a boss!) with fries and mac and cheese ($22.95). The ribs were perfectly cooked and just the way I like them...fall off the bone or in my case, can not keep them on the bone. The wife does not have an appetite like me so she ordered the half rack of ribs ($14.95) but her ribs were not cooked to perfection like mine. She still ate them but the waitress let us know that if the ribs are ever "tough" like that again to let them know and they would be more than happy to bring out another rack. The sides (fries and mac and cheese) were very normal but let's be honest, if you are coming to a BBQ joint like Bubb's Grub then you should not be coming for the sides. The accompanying BBQ sauces (3 choices: regular, mild, and mustard sauce) are legit as well. The regular has a nice spice and heat to it that really left some heat after taste. My favorite though is the mustard BBQ sauce that has a nice mustard and BBQ taste to it that is just perfect to dip your fries in and put on your ribs. All in all Bubb's Grub is definitely my favorite BBQ restaurant in or near Tucson and is 100% worth the short trip up Oracle Road!
(5)Mary M.
Since I've already reviewed the barbecue, let's talk about the Wisconsin Fish Fry. I gotta tell you, I'm not a fish lover. Fish and chips, on occasion, in a really good Irish Pub, maybe. So it was with some trepidation that I ordered the Fish Fry. I usually avoid all foods made with flour. It's a health thing. So if I do eat a flour based batter, it better be really really superb. Seeing as the place was overly packed, the wait more than 45 minutes, and everyone... I mean everyone... was passing on the award winning barbecue and ordering the batter-dipped cod, I went for it. That was a few weeks ago, out with friends. I hesitantly took that first bite, noting of course that it looked just absolutely crisp and light and perfect, and it was nothing short of perfect. No heavy batter or fishy fish. No greasy feel or aftertaste. Instead, it was just amazing. The batter light and crisp and very very tasty. The fish inside? A large flaky white tender filet of cod that actually tasted fabulous. Seriously, this was one of the best plates of batter fried fish I'd ever eaten. So, we went back last night to try again. Just to be sure. I have to tell you. When you see that crowd waiting don't let it stop you. Put your name down on the list and go run some errands and go back. Or have a drink at the bar, if you can get close enough. That's the only suggestion I'll make. We stood there for 45 minutes, and it would have been great if the bar service would actually extend to those who couldn't find a seat.
(5)Hugo M.
I am a bit of a BBQ snob after living in the BBQ Mecca for 11 years "Memphis" and I am an avid tender of the smoker myself. This was our first vist here since we moved back to town. The queen and I came in after the dinner crush albeit it still had a sizable crowd still so i dont know how they do service wise under a big dinner rush. Our server was attentive almost to the point of "bird dogging us" He was great. Our dinner was great though The wife ordered salad with fried chicken on it and it was of good size and very fresh. I ordered the two meat plate and i opted for low carb sides though i wanted the other sides badly hehehe. The brisket was very tender and the smoke ring on it was very pronounced and seasoned in a way that compliments the cut of meat. The other meat was pulled pork I will have to revisit that item again for a better review because I think it was suffering from post dinner rush " hurry and get more pork cooked" although it was tasty the smokiness was light and and the seasoning was lacking. Im not saying it was a bad product I just think i need to try again earlier in the evening. all in all its a good atmosphere and good value. Kudos.
(4)Jeff R.
I arrived early and there were only three people, at one table, in the place. The "manager" or host spent several minutes talking with them while I stood "waiting to be seated". Several employees seemed to notice me, but none took the initiative to ask if I was there to eat. At my "patience has run out point" a server finally came over and took me to a table. She did a good job and the catfish dinner I had was ok. Fish and fries were good. Hush puppies a waste of the calories- hard, luke warm and tasteless. When I left, the "manager" and one of his employees were busy doing something on a dumb phone so I left without suggesting he pay more attention to potential customers. Who knows how many have walked out instead of waiting.
(2)Tracy S.
If you like BBQ and you are near Catalina a trip to Bubb's Grub would be a place to check out. I will be honest I am not a BBQ expert and have not searched long and hard for the worlds perfect BBQ but the stuff I had the other night with my Bro in Law was pretty tasty. We started the meal with a basket of Tabasco O-Rings which were tasty but nothing out of the ordinary and Cheese Curds which I would definitely pass (I am a cheese curd snob being from WI and these were nothing more to me then mozz stick bites). Then came the BBQ - I got the 3 meat platter and choose Shredded Pork Shoulder, Texas Hot Links and Brisket. All the meats where very tasty and the portions were substantial. I choose to pair them with a mixture of the BBQ sauce available (sorry no names where given to describe so I can't pass that along but my favorite was the yellowish one). The side ideas where a little less to be desired Mac and Cheese (I have had WAY better and Potato Salad. The serves was not bad, not great. It was later in the evening so people were getting there stuff done to get out of there. By the end of the meal the bus girl was more attentive then the waiter but there was never a point I needed something that I didn't get. All in all a good experience. Although this won't be on my list of places to rush back to if I am in the mood for BBQ I would make the trek back. Things to know before you go, the place closes pretty early (for my dining standards) 8 Sun - Thur and 9 on Fri and Sat and the place clears out so if you are thinking about going make sure you are going earlier vs later
(3)Jack S.
Pulled pork, great! Try the side, beans real tasty. Cheese cake a must. Good food, good service, reasonable prices, don't pass it by.
(4)Jack S.
Pulled pork, great! Try the side, beans real tasty. Cheese cake a must. Good food, good service, reasonable prices, don't pass it by.
(4)Sarah S.
Was not impressed at all. My husband got the pulled pork and it was very dry. I ordered the fried catfish and did not like it at all. I had only taken one bite and let my husband try it and when my husband told the waitress I didn't like it and wanted to get me something else they said there was nothing they could do and made is pay for it anyway. Won't be going back.
(1)Danielle W.
I loved my pulled pork sandwich, so much so that I wanted a second. :) their dessert menu sounded good but was more expensive than cheesecake factory.
(4)Brandy O.
Wow I had the pulled pork sandwich, Sala and mac and cheese it was amazing. If you go make sure you try the Southern Mustard BBQ sauce it melts in your mouth. Love this place call ahead and make reservations it's a small place and they stay super busy.....
(5)Peter H.
We decided to give this place a try even though it was a long way from where we live. I was pretty excited when I learned that they had Walleye on the menu. Having lived most of my life in Minnesota I have eaten a lot of Walleye. That is not a very common menu item here in the Southwest. Found out that the owners were from Wisconsin, which would explain the all the packer items about the place. The service was friendly but could have been a bit more knowledgable. The food was ok not great and not bad I think my walleye was a bit over cooked. We might try Bub's again if we happen to be in this part of town (its almost an hour oneway from our home). I might even give the Walleye a second chance.
(3)Kerry C.
Food was ok, but was blown away when I learned the corkage fee was $15. That is a major rip!
(2)Jennifer S.
Best ribs around! Great service and nice atmosphere! They have the best BBQ sauces and the mustard BBQ sauce is made in house! You won't be disappointed!!!
(5)J R.
The food was mediocre at best. It isn't a very busy night and the service is a snails pace. Prices for the meal are expensive for what you get. Two elderly gentleman came into the bar area with bottle of water that where approx 75% consumed. The bartender asked them to remove the beverages or leave the restaurant. Also, veterans, active duty, and law enforcement.... Don't bother asking if there's a discount. Save your $, go to Famous Dave's instead!
(2)Karl S.
After almost a decade of visiting the Tucson area (for some reason Catalina reminds me of Wasilla...) finally visited Bubb's Grubb. Good BBQ. Unpretentious, old timey western decor. Would have been comfortable with dirt on the floor, but health codes demand otherwise. Jalepeno poppers for the appetizer. Fresh, hot and spicy. Some tap beer and a full bar. No craft beers on tap, but it's not about the beer. It's about the meat.Two meat BBQ for her, three meat for me. Consensus ranking: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage.I liked the brisket. Well done, thin sliced, smokey flavor and a rind of flavorful fat. Cholesterol be damned. Sausage not bad, but I was outvoted. Sides obviously not out of a can. Good, stick to your ribs cooking'. No room for dessert. Next time!
(4)V F T.
Been there several times but the food isn't all that great and nor is the service. The BBQ is a poor example of what passes as just average in Texas. However they do have ice cold beer.
(1)Sarah S.
Was not impressed at all. My husband got the pulled pork and it was very dry. I ordered the fried catfish and did not like it at all. I had only taken one bite and let my husband try it and when my husband told the waitress I didn't like it and wanted to get me something else they said there was nothing they could do and made is pay for it anyway. Won't be going back.
(1)Danielle W.
I loved my pulled pork sandwich, so much so that I wanted a second. :) their dessert menu sounded good but was more expensive than cheesecake factory.
(4)Brandy O.
Wow I had the pulled pork sandwich, Sala and mac and cheese it was amazing. If you go make sure you try the Southern Mustard BBQ sauce it melts in your mouth. Love this place call ahead and make reservations it's a small place and they stay super busy.....
(5)Don B.
If you are going for the walleye expect small portion and high price. If you want fish fry expect average price and small portions. Small cole slaw. Small amount of fries. I actually counted my fries there were so few. (14). Regular size not steak fries. Three pieces of cod. Small pieces. Not all you can eat. I have had fish fries in Wisconsin Minnesota and other places in Tucson. This one is poor at best. I hear there BBQ is good. Try that instead.
(2)David V.
amazing prime rib on Saturdays!! must have been here 20 times and quality is always exactly same. staff very nice. we drive 20 plus miles just to have a great bbq diner
(5)Jeff G.
Ok, I was at this place last year and it was great. This year I come back and it was horrible. BBQ was ok, nothing to write home about. The worst part of the meal was the desert. I ordered the apple crisp for $6.25. Now I'm all about desert and I don't mind the price if it's ok but....this was a joke. Basically it was a tortilla the size of a Dorito with a table spoon of ice cream. The guy forgot the apples but brought them on a plate freshly heated up in the microwave. They should be embarrassed.
(1)Eliza B.
Most disappointing experience I ever had. Prime rib was disgusting. Not cooked correctly, very fatty, Ran out of Blue Moon at 5:30 pm on a Saturday evening, Waitress asked if we wanted dessert before our dinner arrived. No communication or organization. Will never eat here again. ~The Hoginator
(1)Jessica H.
We came in, we were greeted right away. I had the peel and eat shrimp(it was cooked perfectly) and ribs. It was wonderful. The ribs fell off the bone. The sauce was very good. My husband had mac and cheese( we both liked it) and beans(loved those) he had three meats, chicken, he said was cook great and two others. We would come back again. I liked the food, service and it was a clean place and what I loved, someone who worked their opened the door for me!!!! If you have not been here in awhile, i think you should give this place a chance again!!!!
(4)Jason L.
BBQ heaven in Catalina! I absolutely love this BBQ joint and it is totally worth the 15 minute drive from my house. From Ina and Oracle just drive north and you will come to the unassuming Bubb's Grub but do not be fooled this place serves up some of the best BBQ in the Tucson metro area! I have been here a handful of times, all Fridays, except for today. This was the first time I actually ordered anything BBQ as I normally ordered the Fish Fry. Today I went all out and ordered the full rack of ribs (like a boss!) with fries and mac and cheese ($22.95). The ribs were perfectly cooked and just the way I like them...fall off the bone or in my case, can not keep them on the bone. The wife does not have an appetite like me so she ordered the half rack of ribs ($14.95) but her ribs were not cooked to perfection like mine. She still ate them but the waitress let us know that if the ribs are ever "tough" like that again to let them know and they would be more than happy to bring out another rack. The sides (fries and mac and cheese) were very normal but let's be honest, if you are coming to a BBQ joint like Bubb's Grub then you should not be coming for the sides. The accompanying BBQ sauces (3 choices: regular, mild, and mustard sauce) are legit as well. The regular has a nice spice and heat to it that really left some heat after taste. My favorite though is the mustard BBQ sauce that has a nice mustard and BBQ taste to it that is just perfect to dip your fries in and put on your ribs. All in all Bubb's Grub is definitely my favorite BBQ restaurant in or near Tucson and is 100% worth the short trip up Oracle Road!
(5)Mary M.
Since I've already reviewed the barbecue, let's talk about the Wisconsin Fish Fry. I gotta tell you, I'm not a fish lover. Fish and chips, on occasion, in a really good Irish Pub, maybe. So it was with some trepidation that I ordered the Fish Fry. I usually avoid all foods made with flour. It's a health thing. So if I do eat a flour based batter, it better be really really superb. Seeing as the place was overly packed, the wait more than 45 minutes, and everyone... I mean everyone... was passing on the award winning barbecue and ordering the batter-dipped cod, I went for it. That was a few weeks ago, out with friends. I hesitantly took that first bite, noting of course that it looked just absolutely crisp and light and perfect, and it was nothing short of perfect. No heavy batter or fishy fish. No greasy feel or aftertaste. Instead, it was just amazing. The batter light and crisp and very very tasty. The fish inside? A large flaky white tender filet of cod that actually tasted fabulous. Seriously, this was one of the best plates of batter fried fish I'd ever eaten. So, we went back last night to try again. Just to be sure. I have to tell you. When you see that crowd waiting don't let it stop you. Put your name down on the list and go run some errands and go back. Or have a drink at the bar, if you can get close enough. That's the only suggestion I'll make. We stood there for 45 minutes, and it would have been great if the bar service would actually extend to those who couldn't find a seat.
(5)jack q.
Delicious pulled pork, ribs and chicken w/decent sides. Loved their sauces The service was pretty good, too, and the prices were pretty much a bargain for the amount of food they give you. Lip-smacking!
(4)Wendi H.
Best BBQ ever! The brisket, ribs, pulled pork, it's was to die for. And we had the best waitress ever. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives needs to pay this place a visit!
(5)J Marie S.
Stopped by while in the area, anxious to try the Wisconsin cheese curds and some good bbq. The curds were obviously frozen, hard and flavorless. We tried two different 2-meat dinners. Brisket was okay, everything else was mediocre. Side of mac & cheese was like pasta with cheese whiz. Will take a trip a bit further into Oro Valley next time and leave Bubb's in the rear view mirror.
(2)Sarah N.
The pulled pork is excellent. The Ribs have been hit or miss. Sometimes they are fall of the bone wonderful and other times they are tough. The prices are a bit high for the area. Ambience is nice. Wait staff is good.
(3)Sharon C.
We went on a Friday night a little later around 7:30. Service was terrible. The waitress acted like she had a date waiting and couldn't get us out fast enough. I ordered soup while the other 3 ordered meals. After ordering she came back and said "the kitchen was closing and there was no more soup. I asked about chili - nope that was not available. So I ordered a patty melt with a salad. All orders came without the patty melt. I told the waitress when she returned and was told that it was too bad but the kitchen was closed and the cook wouldn't make it! We were stunned but service had been so rude we just wanted to get out. My friend shared her sandwich and we left. The food was bar food average to,poor. The staff was already cleaning around us as we finished although it was still early for a Friday night. I guess they all had somewhere else to be.
(1)Cindy N.
I'm usually a "healthy eater", however, once in a while I do crave the "What's not so good for you" and gobble it down unabashedly. The main sins in this area, for me are Sonoran Hot Dogs or BBQ. Thanks to all my Yelp writers I had chosen Bubb's Grub to quell my mouth watering desire for some real Texas BBQ. We made the long trek out to Catalina from the North side of town to test out the pretty nice reviews I had seen on Yelp. The place was cool with a Texas style Ranch House. Comfortable booths plus a real Western style ambiance. I was pretty ticked off when we had to pay $3.00 extra to share a meal but it was written all over the menu. They came out with the order in about 2 minutes which led me to wonder how that was possible. The shock came when the pulled pork and the brisket portions were tiny. Also a small amount of fries as well as the cole slaw. Let's not forget the one slice of Texas toast. Let me first say that everything was tasty . I asked the manager about the small portions and he commented that prices are high on meat so therefore the portions reflect that. He came back with some extra meat. Our waitress was so apologetic and extra sweet. She genuinely wanted us to have a good experience. She personally gives most of her customers her own chocolates with the bill. I believe her name was Lurenna. Works there on weekends. The place was crowded so I guess it's popular up in Catalina. Still I love to try different places out, rule some in and some out. That's what Yelp is all about. Because it is a far distance, I'm not sure if I would make the trip up there. If you live closer you won't be disappointed. Huge menu and many choices.
(3)Chuck P.
OK, this is the best place for hearty mouthwatering food in little ol' Catalina. Meat lovers dream with fabulous sides!
(3)E. A.
This is one of he best BBQ places in the region. His sauce is a spicy savory winner. The brisket and ribs were perfect!
(4)Marni A.
Great pulled pork sandwiches. The Bloody Mary's are to die for. Great tobacco onion. Service is fast and friendly. Price are very resonable. This is worth the drive. Best bbq I have had in Tucson. I will be taking my out of town visitors here.
(5)Mary M.
Since I've already reviewed the barbecue, let's talk about the Wisconsin Fish Fry. I gotta tell you, I'm not a fish lover. Fish and chips, on occasion, in a really good Irish Pub, maybe. So it was with some trepidation that I ordered the Fish Fry. I usually avoid all foods made with flour. It's a health thing. So if I do eat a flour based batter, it better be really really superb. Seeing as the place was overly packed, the wait more than 45 minutes, and everyone... I mean everyone... was passing on the award winning barbecue and ordering the batter-dipped cod, I went for it. That was a few weeks ago, out with friends. I hesitantly took that first bite, noting of course that it looked just absolutely crisp and light and perfect, and it was nothing short of perfect. No heavy batter or fishy fish. No greasy feel or aftertaste. Instead, it was just amazing. The batter light and crisp and very very tasty. The fish inside? A large flaky white tender filet of cod that actually tasted fabulous. Seriously, this was one of the best plates of batter fried fish I'd ever eaten. So, we went back last night to try again. Just to be sure. I have to tell you. When you see that crowd waiting don't let it stop you. Put your name down on the list and go run some errands and go back. Or have a drink at the bar, if you can get close enough. That's the only suggestion I'll make. We stood there for 45 minutes, and it would have been great if the bar service would actually extend to those who couldn't find a seat.
(5)Jerry M.
First timer! Great food and Great service, what more could you ask for? Definitely recommend the Belt Buster, if you're feeling daring. Also loved the pull pork, sliced brisket and ribs. Waitress was very polite and on top of things, keeping or drinks full at ALL times. Bbq sauce is good, more pepper flavor than sweet. Recommend giving it a shot!
(4)Elizabeth C.
Don't bother! Not worth the trip. The food is consistently horrible and the sides are all carbs unless you want to pay more for a salad that is nothing to write home about. Don't bother asking for any adjustments or complaining, the owner is very curt and nasty.
(1)Matt M.
We live in the area & frequent Bubbs quite a lot. Good BBQ food, love the pulled pork & burnt ends & pieces. Also enjoy the fish fry on Friday. The smoke flavor is great and the house made mustard bbq sauce & bubbs sauce are some of our family favorites!
(5)Kilbey K.
I've only had the food here a couple of times but have had an assortment of items to say that the food is delicious. Stopped in the first time to watch a Seahawks game and sat at the bar. Brittany was the bartender and was friendly, courteous and more than competent. I will definitely be going back to watch some football and have some great food.
(5)Jess H.
A great variety of different smoked meats (which are smoked overnight on premises). Everything is tasty and fresh. Friendly and fast service. They have a lot of TV's and are always willing to find your game if your team is playing. On Sunday mornings they serve breakfast (try the Bubb's bagel or breakfast cheeseburger). Great place for Friday fish fry or prime rib on Saturday nights.
(5)Jack S.
Pulled pork, great! Try the side, beans real tasty. Cheese cake a must. Good food, good service, reasonable prices, don't pass it by.
(4)Peter H.
We decided to give this place a try even though it was a long way from where we live. I was pretty excited when I learned that they had Walleye on the menu. Having lived most of my life in Minnesota I have eaten a lot of Walleye. That is not a very common menu item here in the Southwest. Found out that the owners were from Wisconsin, which would explain the all the packer items about the place. The service was friendly but could have been a bit more knowledgable. The food was ok not great and not bad I think my walleye was a bit over cooked. We might try Bub's again if we happen to be in this part of town (its almost an hour oneway from our home). I might even give the Walleye a second chance.
(3)Kerry C.
Food was ok, but was blown away when I learned the corkage fee was $15. That is a major rip!
(2)Jennifer S.
Best ribs around! Great service and nice atmosphere! They have the best BBQ sauces and the mustard BBQ sauce is made in house! You won't be disappointed!!!
(5)J R.
The food was mediocre at best. It isn't a very busy night and the service is a snails pace. Prices for the meal are expensive for what you get. Two elderly gentleman came into the bar area with bottle of water that where approx 75% consumed. The bartender asked them to remove the beverages or leave the restaurant. Also, veterans, active duty, and law enforcement.... Don't bother asking if there's a discount. Save your $, go to Famous Dave's instead!
(2)Karl S.
After almost a decade of visiting the Tucson area (for some reason Catalina reminds me of Wasilla...) finally visited Bubb's Grubb. Good BBQ. Unpretentious, old timey western decor. Would have been comfortable with dirt on the floor, but health codes demand otherwise. Jalepeno poppers for the appetizer. Fresh, hot and spicy. Some tap beer and a full bar. No craft beers on tap, but it's not about the beer. It's about the meat.Two meat BBQ for her, three meat for me. Consensus ranking: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage.I liked the brisket. Well done, thin sliced, smokey flavor and a rind of flavorful fat. Cholesterol be damned. Sausage not bad, but I was outvoted. Sides obviously not out of a can. Good, stick to your ribs cooking'. No room for dessert. Next time!
(4)V F T.
Been there several times but the food isn't all that great and nor is the service. The BBQ is a poor example of what passes as just average in Texas. However they do have ice cold beer.
(1)Sarah S.
Was not impressed at all. My husband got the pulled pork and it was very dry. I ordered the fried catfish and did not like it at all. I had only taken one bite and let my husband try it and when my husband told the waitress I didn't like it and wanted to get me something else they said there was nothing they could do and made is pay for it anyway. Won't be going back.
(1)Danielle W.
I loved my pulled pork sandwich, so much so that I wanted a second. :) their dessert menu sounded good but was more expensive than cheesecake factory.
(4)Brandy O.
Wow I had the pulled pork sandwich, Sala and mac and cheese it was amazing. If you go make sure you try the Southern Mustard BBQ sauce it melts in your mouth. Love this place call ahead and make reservations it's a small place and they stay super busy.....
(5)Don B.
If you are going for the walleye expect small portion and high price. If you want fish fry expect average price and small portions. Small cole slaw. Small amount of fries. I actually counted my fries there were so few. (14). Regular size not steak fries. Three pieces of cod. Small pieces. Not all you can eat. I have had fish fries in Wisconsin Minnesota and other places in Tucson. This one is poor at best. I hear there BBQ is good. Try that instead.
(2)David V.
amazing prime rib on Saturdays!! must have been here 20 times and quality is always exactly same. staff very nice. we drive 20 plus miles just to have a great bbq diner
(5)Jeff G.
Ok, I was at this place last year and it was great. This year I come back and it was horrible. BBQ was ok, nothing to write home about. The worst part of the meal was the desert. I ordered the apple crisp for $6.25. Now I'm all about desert and I don't mind the price if it's ok but....this was a joke. Basically it was a tortilla the size of a Dorito with a table spoon of ice cream. The guy forgot the apples but brought them on a plate freshly heated up in the microwave. They should be embarrassed.
(1)Eliza B.
Most disappointing experience I ever had. Prime rib was disgusting. Not cooked correctly, very fatty, Ran out of Blue Moon at 5:30 pm on a Saturday evening, Waitress asked if we wanted dessert before our dinner arrived. No communication or organization. Will never eat here again. ~The Hoginator
(1)Jessica H.
We came in, we were greeted right away. I had the peel and eat shrimp(it was cooked perfectly) and ribs. It was wonderful. The ribs fell off the bone. The sauce was very good. My husband had mac and cheese( we both liked it) and beans(loved those) he had three meats, chicken, he said was cook great and two others. We would come back again. I liked the food, service and it was a clean place and what I loved, someone who worked their opened the door for me!!!! If you have not been here in awhile, i think you should give this place a chance again!!!!
(4)Joe P.
I had head a lot of great reviews for this place. But all I can say that my visit there was disappointing. I ordered the two meat combo (brisket and pulled pork shoulder). The brisket was bland, no taste to it whatsoever. The pulled pork was a slight bit better, but it was drowned in some kind of sauce. The sides of corn along with Mac and cheese did nothing to enhance the meal. The corn tasted like it was out of a can. While the Mac and cheese tasted like it was made from velveeta. I really thought from the reviews I heard that this would be awesome. But the food fell short of being okay.
(2)Jason L.
BBQ heaven in Catalina! I absolutely love this BBQ joint and it is totally worth the 15 minute drive from my house. From Ina and Oracle just drive north and you will come to the unassuming Bubb's Grub but do not be fooled this place serves up some of the best BBQ in the Tucson metro area! I have been here a handful of times, all Fridays, except for today. This was the first time I actually ordered anything BBQ as I normally ordered the Fish Fry. Today I went all out and ordered the full rack of ribs (like a boss!) with fries and mac and cheese ($22.95). The ribs were perfectly cooked and just the way I like them...fall off the bone or in my case, can not keep them on the bone. The wife does not have an appetite like me so she ordered the half rack of ribs ($14.95) but her ribs were not cooked to perfection like mine. She still ate them but the waitress let us know that if the ribs are ever "tough" like that again to let them know and they would be more than happy to bring out another rack. The sides (fries and mac and cheese) were very normal but let's be honest, if you are coming to a BBQ joint like Bubb's Grub then you should not be coming for the sides. The accompanying BBQ sauces (3 choices: regular, mild, and mustard sauce) are legit as well. The regular has a nice spice and heat to it that really left some heat after taste. My favorite though is the mustard BBQ sauce that has a nice mustard and BBQ taste to it that is just perfect to dip your fries in and put on your ribs. All in all Bubb's Grub is definitely my favorite BBQ restaurant in or near Tucson and is 100% worth the short trip up Oracle Road!
(5)Keith Z.
The brisket and pulled pork were old and dry. Chicken was dry. Ribs were tender. Service was very good.
(3)Tracy P.
I lived in Texas for a few years and I've had my share of good and bad BBQ and this place passed my "Texas" test for both food and decor. I'll definitely go back. Excellent brisket & pulled pork. Pretty good links and sides. My only complaint is that I'd like to have a sweeter, smoky sauce but their sauces were pretty good.
(4)John D.
Hand down the best pulled pork I have ever eaten. From the first fork full I knew it was love at first bite. This stuff was porkalicious! I added just a little of the BBQ sauce that Bubb's makes and I was devouring my plate. The BBQ sauce was so good I decided to risk it and bring 2 bottles back home. If you are in Oro Valley / Catalina area this place is a MUST ! Service was polite and efficient.
(5)Daniel K.
If you have been to almost any bbq place then you will be familiar with the style. The atmosphere of this place is traditional "BBQ" western ranch house style. We stopped here on our way to the Ford dealership and it was a pleasant surprise. So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the Tucson area. We liked it so much we went again a week later when we came up to buy the car from the dealer in Oracle and we brought friends the second time. If it was closer to Tucson then we would go more often. Food: this is why we eat out at places like this, to enjoy juicy meats and tasty sauces. This place hits the head of the nail. Both times I ordered the three meat platter and I have to say that their chicken is wonderful. The private label sauce is one of the best that I have had. My only regret is that I didn't buy a bottle to bring home. Guess we will have to go again :-)
(4)Mike F.
Excellent Friday Fish Fry and "Burnt Ends". The "ends" give you an idea of how good the BBQ is, but the Fish Fry is the best I have had outside of Wisconsin. I have had both the Cod and Walleye. Excellent Service, need Miller Lite on tap, full beer selection is good, lots of TVs to catch up on games.
(5)John D.
Bubb's Grub is a surprisingly stellar BBQ place. I say surprisingly because although the plates are generous, the side dishes that are included with the meals are much less interesting than the BBQ itself. The fries are just Ortega fries that are cooked in-house, the red potatoes are just two simple boiled potatoes, and the mac and cheese tastes like squeeze cheese. These sides really aren't bad, they just taste more like something you could make at home rather than something prepared in a restaurant. But the BBQ is amazing. One bite of my brisket sandwich and I knew I was coming back to Bubb's Grub. The housemade BBQ sauce is perfect (and on sale at the restaurant) and the preparation of the meat is nothing short of fantastic. I can't say enough about how good this BBQ is. This is easily the best BBQ I've had in Tucson (or Catalina to be specific) so far.
(4)Mary S.
I called for a to-go order at 8:30 on a Saturday night. I was informed by the very rude lady who answered the phone that the kitchen was closing in a few minutes. I asked her if that was a no then. She asked how far away i was. I replied less than 10 Minutes. She replied no the kitchen is closed... I believe that the hours posted say closed at 9pm. I have frequented Bubb's Grub on many occasions. The food is excellent, but after this i will not be returning. The key to running a successful business is good service.
(1)Richard h.
We had high hopes for this place, but were disappointed. Menu items: Burnt Ends and Pieces were basically chunks of fat. Brisket was not tender and very fatty, more so than any brisket we have ever had. Pulled pork was OK but nothing to write home about. All in all the experience was below average. A long way to drive and certainly not worth the World Famous accolade. Wish we have gone to Famous Dave's!
(2)Larry J.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner. A wide range of menu choices with good service at a reasonable price. BBQ is their specialty but everything is really good. My favorite is their 1/2 lb. Burger.
(4)Saba B.
Best. Smoked. Andouille. Sausage. Ever...More superlatives come to mind as I relive the decadent taste of Bubb's pork shoulder, ribs, chicken, and pork brisket trio. Nothing is an afterthought here. Even BG's signature BBQ sauce is sweet, spicy, and impossibly rich. I lament that BG's is so far from T-Town, as these guys SMOKE the competition in Southern Arizona. The service is also snappy and thorough and the ambience old school western kitsch. We are definitely coming back for the four-tiered Belly Buster challenge and the Wednesday night all-you-can-eat ribs. Just take a look at the motorized smoker in the back for an idea of how seriously these guys take the art of the grill. Unbeatable!
(5)Hugo M.
I am a bit of a BBQ snob after living in the BBQ Mecca for 11 years "Memphis" and I am an avid tender of the smoker myself. This was our first vist here since we moved back to town. The queen and I came in after the dinner crush albeit it still had a sizable crowd still so i dont know how they do service wise under a big dinner rush. Our server was attentive almost to the point of "bird dogging us" He was great. Our dinner was great though The wife ordered salad with fried chicken on it and it was of good size and very fresh. I ordered the two meat plate and i opted for low carb sides though i wanted the other sides badly hehehe. The brisket was very tender and the smoke ring on it was very pronounced and seasoned in a way that compliments the cut of meat. The other meat was pulled pork I will have to revisit that item again for a better review because I think it was suffering from post dinner rush " hurry and get more pork cooked" although it was tasty the smokiness was light and and the seasoning was lacking. Im not saying it was a bad product I just think i need to try again earlier in the evening. all in all its a good atmosphere and good value. Kudos.
(4)Jeff R.
I arrived early and there were only three people, at one table, in the place. The "manager" or host spent several minutes talking with them while I stood "waiting to be seated". Several employees seemed to notice me, but none took the initiative to ask if I was there to eat. At my "patience has run out point" a server finally came over and took me to a table. She did a good job and the catfish dinner I had was ok. Fish and fries were good. Hush puppies a waste of the calories- hard, luke warm and tasteless. When I left, the "manager" and one of his employees were busy doing something on a dumb phone so I left without suggesting he pay more attention to potential customers. Who knows how many have walked out instead of waiting.
(2)K M.
Ya know I forgot to review this place a while back, so this is based on a visit from November. Have had BBQ in various spots through the country including the BBQ belt of the south. We were on the far NW side of town, far from our home, and looking for a place to eat and watch a football game and this place was really a surprise, meats, wings, fries. So far the best BBQ I have had in Tucson. Four-and-a-half stars plus 1/2 star for the surprise.
(5)O G.
So far the best BBQ place that I have been to in the area. We liked it so much I stop by when in the area traveling which by the way is over an hour for me The Food: Large selection on menu the pork is excellent, and the brisket is good. I had the brisket twice now and the first time it was better it was little dry this time. Service can be more focus on the customer. So stop and check it out.
(4)Tracy S.
If you like BBQ and you are near Catalina a trip to Bubb's Grub would be a place to check out. I will be honest I am not a BBQ expert and have not searched long and hard for the worlds perfect BBQ but the stuff I had the other night with my Bro in Law was pretty tasty. We started the meal with a basket of Tabasco O-Rings which were tasty but nothing out of the ordinary and Cheese Curds which I would definitely pass (I am a cheese curd snob being from WI and these were nothing more to me then mozz stick bites). Then came the BBQ - I got the 3 meat platter and choose Shredded Pork Shoulder, Texas Hot Links and Brisket. All the meats where very tasty and the portions were substantial. I choose to pair them with a mixture of the BBQ sauce available (sorry no names where given to describe so I can't pass that along but my favorite was the yellowish one). The side ideas where a little less to be desired Mac and Cheese (I have had WAY better and Potato Salad. The serves was not bad, not great. It was later in the evening so people were getting there stuff done to get out of there. By the end of the meal the bus girl was more attentive then the waiter but there was never a point I needed something that I didn't get. All in all a good experience. Although this won't be on my list of places to rush back to if I am in the mood for BBQ I would make the trek back. Things to know before you go, the place closes pretty early (for my dining standards) 8 Sun - Thur and 9 on Fri and Sat and the place clears out so if you are thinking about going make sure you are going earlier vs later
(3)elvin b.
The prime rib special was okay, but pricey for the atmosphere which is stripmallish. Wooden Indians which aren't authentic for the area. Lots of the specials are midwestern barbecue which is rather strange considering you're in the middle of the Southwest. What really bummed me out is that I ordered a Tequila Sunrise and EVERWHERE I have had this drink in Arizona the tecquila has tasted decent even though it has not been top shelf. Maybe its because it was happy hour and they were trying to cut corners? Maybe it's because the owner is from Minnesota? I don't know, buit the stuff tasted like rot gut. I couldn't even drink more than a few sips. Yuck. The waiter should have asked me what was wrong and offered to replace the drink but he didn't, well too bad because his tip reflected that. Oh and I've tasted better fries at Burger King.
(2)Gretchen B.
Went for the Friday night fish fry. The owner is from WI. If the reviewer from CA had looked around with a shred of wisdom he would have seen WI team gear all over the place along with western stuff. Vince Lombardi meets Tom Mix. The place was very busy but the seating arrangements fair and quick. The bar is a fun place to wait and relax with an adult beverage. The fish fry was first rate. Just out of the fryer, sides good to adequate, portions generous, and priced right. We spend the winter in Tucson and the place is a decent replica of a WI Northwoods supper club. Will try the other grup at a future visit. If you miss the BTN they have it on multiple tv's.
(4)Brandon S.
Those who live in Tucson are VERY LUCKY to have Bubb's Grub!!!! SERIOUSLY LUCKY!!!!!! I love BBQ and search for joints in every city I visit. I've been lucky enough to have dined numerous times on some of the finest Texas BBQ in Austin, Texas- Stubs, Rudy's...etc Bubb's Grub is REAL DEAL Texas BBQ! I'm from SoCal and can't find REAL Texas bbq here.....some good bbq, but nothing that brings back memories and flavors of Texas. I was visiting Tucson last week and drove north just wandering around......I saw a small restaurant in the middle of nowhere (ok, I'm from SoCal.....this seemed like the middle of nowhere) it had a big sign that said "WORLD CHAMPION BBQ" with a big painting of Texas on it...... I went back to my hotel and told the wife that we were having bbq for dinner. If you see a restaurant that says "World Champion".....YOU MUST STOP AND EAT. My order was take out so my review is for the food only. It turns out they were world champion for their bbq sauce and pulled pork....I think in 1998, forgive me if I'm wrong. The pride and joy of Texas bbq is brisket.....this was some of the best brisket I have EVER had; almost tender enough to cut with my plastic fork, a nice amount of fat running thru the meat, incredibly juicy, and the smokey flavor, spice, and crust was out of this world...BRAVO Bubb's!!!! YOU ROCK!!!! You must be proud of your brisket to offer "burnt corners and pieces" as an appetizer! Oh I wish I had 2 stomachs that night! I also had the pulled pork.....Fantastic, and the bbq chicken....Fantastic... The beans were great, smokey, and spicy, not sweet. Their bbq sauce is just wonderful, their spicy bbq sauce is wonderful, and their mustard bbq sauce is wonderful. Some say a bbq sauce is truly special when you would consider drinking it just by itself......Bubb's is pretty damn close! The menu is huge and has so much variety....but since I had only one chance I ordered the staples to test their Texas authenticity. There are plenty of sandwiches, appetizers, salads, and sides. The staff was very friendly and helpful with all my nerdy bbq questions. I loved Bubb's so much that I would certainly pay to overnight their food to my home in SoCal. I've done this once before from a North Carolina bbq joint....that's how much I love bbq! They even serve Texas toast!! I just feel like cursing right now.....F&^K YEAH Bubb's! If you live in Tucson and eat here all the time....I ask you to slap yourself once in a while before you sit down at Bubb's to appreciate and remember how lucky you are to have this quality of bbq in your home town. AMAZING! I WILL BE BACK!!!!!!!!!! Thanks Bubb's!
(5)Bill B.
Who cares about the ambience, etc. The food is mouthwatering! The pulled pork equals the very best that can be found in the Carolinas and I have not been able to find brisket that good in Texas outside of a competition. The chicken is moist and the links are truly hot. I'm not a fan of dry-rub ribs so, I'll leave that for others to judge. If you like either Southern or Texas BBQ, go here. Both styles are done superbly. You won't be disappointed and the proprietor has the competition awards to back up the excellent food.
(5)Jerry G.
Stopped in here on my way back into town from San Manuel. A riding buddy had suggested it and had been here several times. I got the world famous pulled pork sandwich with beans as my side. The food was very good and the service was great. They had a 3 BBQ sauces - a mild, their house special (a little spicy) and a southern mustard. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the warm apple cinnamon crisp. They used apple pie filling, which was not bad, but it was the fried tortilla shell that disappointed me. I was expected more a traditional apple crisp. I will swing by again some day when I am in the area, but next time I will try something else for dessert.
(4)jack q.
Delicious pulled pork, ribs and chicken w/decent sides. Loved their sauces The service was pretty good, too, and the prices were pretty much a bargain for the amount of food they give you. Lip-smacking!
(4)Wendi H.
Best BBQ ever! The brisket, ribs, pulled pork, it's was to die for. And we had the best waitress ever. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives needs to pay this place a visit!
(5)J Marie S.
Stopped by while in the area, anxious to try the Wisconsin cheese curds and some good bbq. The curds were obviously frozen, hard and flavorless. We tried two different 2-meat dinners. Brisket was okay, everything else was mediocre. Side of mac & cheese was like pasta with cheese whiz. Will take a trip a bit further into Oro Valley next time and leave Bubb's in the rear view mirror.
(2)Sarah N.
The pulled pork is excellent. The Ribs have been hit or miss. Sometimes they are fall of the bone wonderful and other times they are tough. The prices are a bit high for the area. Ambience is nice. Wait staff is good.
(3)Sharon C.
We went on a Friday night a little later around 7:30. Service was terrible. The waitress acted like she had a date waiting and couldn't get us out fast enough. I ordered soup while the other 3 ordered meals. After ordering she came back and said "the kitchen was closing and there was no more soup. I asked about chili - nope that was not available. So I ordered a patty melt with a salad. All orders came without the patty melt. I told the waitress when she returned and was told that it was too bad but the kitchen was closed and the cook wouldn't make it! We were stunned but service had been so rude we just wanted to get out. My friend shared her sandwich and we left. The food was bar food average to,poor. The staff was already cleaning around us as we finished although it was still early for a Friday night. I guess they all had somewhere else to be.
(1)Amy W.
Here's a tip for you Tucson natives, get Bubb's Grub to cater your thanksgiving! I was visiting my bf's family and that's what they did. Apparently you have to sign up a bit early b/c they have a limited number of meals to go for thanksgiving, but YOWZA. Cranberry fluff, I'm still talking about it 1 year later! The turkey was smoked (natch!) and there was enough food to feed an army. It seems to me the pricing was reasonable too, but I don't remember what we paid.
(4)E. A.
This is one of he best BBQ places in the region. His sauce is a spicy savory winner. The brisket and ribs were perfect!
(4)Mark H.
I use Yelp reguarly when I am away to find good places to eat. I have never taken the time to write a review. But, this place was so bad I had to, in hopes of saving someone else $30. I hate to be debbie downer here...but I did not like this place. At all. I wanted to. I wanted to at least find something positive. If I had to, I guess the service was efficient.....not busy at all, almost closing time, service was effective. On the other hand, when food was 80% uneaten, they could have questioned and possibly tried to make a substitute. Ohhhh wait, the Texas toast was good. I am a Texas transplant and am very accustomed to outstanding bbq. This was not it.I started with the burnts and ends appetizer. Was more like all fat pieces. I got the 3 meat plate. No meats were good. I got brisket, sausage and pork. Didnt try the ribs, so no opinion on that. We also had chili....two bites were gone and that was enough to realize it was not what we wanted. Mac and Cheese was literally cold, and even if it was hot, it wouldnt make much of a difference in the taste and quality. French fries were the other side. No comment on those. If this is the best the Tucson area has for BBQ, then stick with sonoran dogs and save some money.
(1)Chuck D.
Neither sophisticated or elegant, Bubb's has awesome food and great service. Bubb's starts with a real smoker located behind the restaurant - the first requirement of any good BBQ. The ribs are meaty and tender. My personal favorite is a rack of beef ribs. They are big and good. My wife's favorite is the smoked prime rib (available on weekends) which is unique and excellent. The meat combinations, including chicken, provide just about all you could want. Sides are good. Sports fans will find the bar a good place to keep up with your team.
(5)joe y.
This my friends is the real deal! As anyone knows, the best bbq places have a roll of paper towel on every table! The place is the perfect atmosphere; cozy -southern- southwestern- combo of everything bbq! We did the tobacco onions for a starter- dip then in the southwestern mustard... Perfect! Main courses consisted of a pulled pork sandwich, two meat entree (brisket and pulled pork), chef salad with pulled pork, and the full rack of ribs. (everyone told me they loved their meals... I had the ribs... THE BEST I'VE HAD SINCE I CAN REMEMBER! And that's saying alot, because ribs are one of my favorite, most scrutinized meals!) Of course (like any great bbq place) the sides were a perfect compliment. Spicy baked beans, cole slaw, spiced red potatoes. The kiddos had mac and cheese, beans, and chicken tenders... If your kid is quiet and eating their meal non stop, you've hit a jackpot! Too full for desert, but the ice cream coming out of that kitchen is another reason for me to be back! No wonder the sign boasts "award winning bbq"!
(5)David D.
This was my first visit to BG after driving by too many times and always noticing a fairly full parking lot. That's typically a good sign. My cuz and I both had the pulled pork sandwich which was awesome. He had potato salad and I had cole slow which were both very good. Alyssa was our server and was very attentive. Decor and background music both very nice. I'll be back.
(4)Barbara L.
This is one of the best restaurants in the Tucson area. We drive out there at least once a week to have the fish fry on Friday or eat steak on a different night. Review written by Dale Hulvey of Barter Tucson.
(5)Adrian A.
I have been enjoying Bubb's Grub for several years and have never been disappointed with the food or the friendly service. I have always found the meat to tasty and well prepared (the brisket is my favorite) and sides equally good (I usually choose beans and potatoes). In addition to great barbecue I would recommend their Friday fish fry. On a side note... Bubb's Grub also actively sponsors and donates to local youth sports teams.
(5)Kassi E.
This place is great for the BBQ. We were there for an event and the service was quick and easy for 20+ people hanging out. No one said anything was bad and I had the brisket. Awesome place!
(5)Francis E.
Found this place by just driving by! WOW! Was very impressed with the food, the only thing is that i wish there had been just a touch more on my plate. left kinda hungry, i suppose i could go to the all you can eat BBQ that they have? lol
(4)Cindy N.
I'm usually a "healthy eater", however, once in a while I do crave the "What's not so good for you" and gobble it down unabashedly. The main sins in this area, for me are Sonoran Hot Dogs or BBQ. Thanks to all my Yelp writers I had chosen Bubb's Grub to quell my mouth watering desire for some real Texas BBQ. We made the long trek out to Catalina from the North side of town to test out the pretty nice reviews I had seen on Yelp. The place was cool with a Texas style Ranch House. Comfortable booths plus a real Western style ambiance. I was pretty ticked off when we had to pay $3.00 extra to share a meal but it was written all over the menu. They came out with the order in about 2 minutes which led me to wonder how that was possible. The shock came when the pulled pork and the brisket portions were tiny. Also a small amount of fries as well as the cole slaw. Let's not forget the one slice of Texas toast. Let me first say that everything was tasty . I asked the manager about the small portions and he commented that prices are high on meat so therefore the portions reflect that. He came back with some extra meat. Our waitress was so apologetic and extra sweet. She genuinely wanted us to have a good experience. She personally gives most of her customers her own chocolates with the bill. I believe her name was Lurenna. Works there on weekends. The place was crowded so I guess it's popular up in Catalina. Still I love to try different places out, rule some in and some out. That's what Yelp is all about. Because it is a far distance, I'm not sure if I would make the trip up there. If you live closer you won't be disappointed. Huge menu and many choices.
(3)Chuck P.
OK, this is the best place for hearty mouthwatering food in little ol' Catalina. Meat lovers dream with fabulous sides!
(3)Marni A.
Great pulled pork sandwiches. The Bloody Mary's are to die for. Great tobacco onion. Service is fast and friendly. Price are very resonable. This is worth the drive. Best bbq I have had in Tucson. I will be taking my out of town visitors here.
(5)Stephen G.
This is the best BBQ place in town now that Brundogs has cut its menu to a mere shadow of its former self. All the meats have a succulent BBQ flavor and the sauce is a perfect complement to the meat. Sides are terrific too. Too bad it is so far from my house. Wait, maybe it is a good thing. If it was closer, I'd eat there more often and I'd be as big as a house.
(5)Rob T.
Been going to Bubb's when I visit my parents for years. Good BBQ (especially the pulled pork), awesome Friday Fish Fry, and we've never had bad service. Great owners too, they really love what they do. Breakfast during tourist season is a nice touch too. Nothing like a BBQ pork omelet to fortify for the day! Oh, and that new Southern Style Mustard BBQ sauce... so good.
(5)Peter G.
Bubb's Grub is really good Texas smoked Bar-B-Q done over Pecan wood. The ribs, and brisket are wonderful. The pulled Pork not too bad, and the smoked chicken a bit dry, but very tasty. Their hot BBQ sauce is super. Great for lunch, as it is quiet; dinner I am told is packed.
(4)James B.
Not a lot of competition out there in Catalina but this place is worth going to if you like BBQ. Nice service and atmosphere.
(3)Andrew M.
Had dinner with the family while vacationing in Tucson during spring break. I am an aficionado of pork spare ribs, but I'd have to give Bubb's only a 3 star rating for their pork ribs. Good spare ribs fall off the bone. These didn't. They were not really tough, per se, but they just weren't as tender as I would have expected for a place that specializes in ribs. On a lark I also ordered some beef ribs, which were not good at all - maybe a 2 star rating on the beef ribs. They were tough and fatty, with little flavor other than smoke. Bubb's regular BBQ sauce was too hot for everyone in our group, and their mild sauce was a but too vinegary and somewhat sour for the adult tastes in our group. The kids flat out couldn't eat either the mild or the hot sauce. It would have been great if Bubb had a sweet / smoky style of BBQ sauce for those with that taste preference. The sides were good, although nothing to go crazy about. The ambiance was good - nice local flavor. Overall, not a bad experience, but not a great one either.
(3)