Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse
A brick-walled BBQ haven in Old Town Scottsdale, serving slow-smoked meats and comfort food with a modern twist in a unique speakeasy setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A brick-walled BBQ haven in Old Town Scottsdale, serving slow-smoked meats and comfort food with a modern twist in a unique speakeasy setting.
"The BBQ sampler is a great value, tastes great and frankly it is just fun to share."
Happy Hour Deals
Visit from 3-6pm for specials like Boot Dumplings with pork belly and shrimp.
Order Sides Wisely
Kettle chips may be a better value than fries, which can arrive lukewarm.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American, Barbecue
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The BBQ Sampler
A generous platter of slow-smoked meats, offering great value and a taste of everything.
Speakeasy Vibes
Enjoy delicious smoked meats in a unique, brick-walled atmosphere with a modern twist.
Bacon Board
Indulge in a rotating selection of five types of expertly prepared bacon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Happy Hour Deals
Visit from 3-6pm for specials like Boot Dumplings with pork belly and shrimp.
Order Sides Wisely
Kettle chips may be a better value than fries, which can arrive lukewarm.
Consider Your Timing
Service can be slow, especially if understaffed.
Check Restroom Status
Some reviewers noted issues with restroom maintenance.
Tips
from all over the internet
Happy Hour Deals
Visit from 3-6pm for specials like Boot Dumplings with pork belly and shrimp.
Order Sides Wisely
Kettle chips may be a better value than fries, which can arrive lukewarm.
Consider Your Timing
Service can be slow, especially if understaffed.
Check Restroom Status
Some reviewers noted issues with restroom maintenance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse garners praise for its BBQ sampler and speakeasy ambiance. While many rave about the slow-smoked meats and value, some diners have experienced service delays and found certain dishes to be dry or bland. The restaurant's unique atmosphere is a consistent draw, though occasional issues with food preparation and service consistency are noted.
"Christopher you're amazing! Thank you for being kind to Betsy and I. We went into 4 different places before we found BootLeggers. Betsy recommends this place for anyone with autism if you want to feel welcomed and seen. Food was delicious nothing left on my plate."
Paea Lakei-Hughes
"We were seated quickly which was nice. It took awhile for the waitress to get our order, because she had a big table to serve near us. We were never offered another drink after we got our first drink. Food was good, but the fries cost an extra $3 and it came to us lukewarm and in a small dish, so not worth the extra money, just go with the kettle chips. The atmosphere was really cool. I loved the decor and the dim lighting. The bathroom needed service. One toilet out of two was out of order, one side of the sink was out of order, and I think one paper towel dispenser was empty. The employees were nice enough though. The French dip sandwich was amazing. The Cobb salad was good too."
Holls
"The food was pretty good. Not the best but better than some other places. The place was not that crowded when we went. But the is no AC and it was hot out. The chairs are not the most comfortable so staying and just talking with friends after eating was not a good idea. Even though there was almost no one in there, our food took forever. We got the deviled eggs appetizer and it was not what was described. There were no chives and instead was beets sauce and it looked like the eggs were pickled in beet juice. The pulled pork was good. Was a little dry. The staff especially our server Jaelyn was the best! Such a great personality and was fun to talk to. Prices were ok I guess."
S D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The BBQ sampler is highly recommended for its value and variety of smoked meats. Other popular dishes include the bacon board, St. Louis ribs, and various sandwiches.
Yes, the BBQ sampler is great for sharing, making it a good option for groups who want to try multiple items.
Happy hour runs daily from 3-6pm and features special offerings like Boot Dumplings.
Bootleggers offers a unique speakeasy vibe with a brick-walled interior, creating a casual yet modern dining experience.
Service can be a mixed bag; while some praise attentive staff, others report slow service and a lack of check-ins.
While fries are an option, some suggest kettle chips or mac and cheese, though mac and cheese has been described as bland by some.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Best Cheap Eats Under $5 in Phoenix
Phoenix and ScottsdaleWhat you're getting: Boot Dumplings, $5Every day from 3-6pm, something magical happens at Bootleggers. It’s called happy hour. And the folks from the Phoenix smokehouse certainly know how to make us happy, offering up eats like the Boot Dumplings with pork belly, shrimp, and a mango chipotle sauce.
4 of the Best Barbecue Joints in Driving Distance of Scottsdale, AZ – Earnhardt Cadillac Blog
At 7217 East 1st Street, you can get BBQ classics with no problem, but this place stretches out from there with things like the Bacon Board starter with five rotating bacons, more than 10 sandwiches (including a smoked turkey melt), and brisket tacos. Get the St. Louis ribs, smoked turkey breast, or a smoked prime rib!. For sides, try the smashed red goat cheese potatoes or smoked sweet corn, or go for mac and cheese with béchamel sauce and panko!
25 Upscale Dining Options to Experience
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse is a restaurant that brings the flavors of traditional American barbecue into a contemporary setting. Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, it’s a popular spot for those craving smoked meats and comfort food classics with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken, all cooked low and slow to perfection.
My 39 Favorite Restaurants in Phoenix
If you’re like me, you’ll do virtually anything for a killer brisket meal slathered in smoky barbecue sauce. There is little to nothing better than this combination and Bootleggers does it just right with their chopped brisket sandwich!. Along with other classic BBQ dishes (pulled pork, chicken wings, and fried mac n’ cheese), you’ll find smoked mussels, fresh salads, and Mexican fare.
Dining Guide | 7 of the Best Restaurants in Scottsdale for Dude Food
From their beefy sandwiches to their generous portions of smoked meat entrees you’ll discover that the meats are infused with rich flavors and lightly laced with that great smoke flavor in every bite no matter if you opt for a smoked prime rib, pulled pork or their highly popular brisket. Our favorite thing at Bootleggers has to be their bacon board.
Scottsdale’s Best Restaurants Offer Diverse and Delicious Cuisine
In America’s Southern states is where you’ll find barbecue restaurants like no other. Scottsdale, Arizona is no exception thanks to Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse. This busy joint is located in Old Town Scottsdale, offering various platter options that are great for sharing or taking leftovers home for your next meal.
Barbecue Archives
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse is a casual American Tavern, with two neighborhood restaurants located in Phoenix, and Old Town Scottsdale that celebrate the craft of making good food, good drinks, and good friends. The menu is designed for snacking, sharing, and celebrating ...
Scottsdale's Best Casual Restaurants [Updated 2025]
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse in Scottsdale is a must-visit spot for any BBQ lover. From the finger-lickin' ribs to the fall-off-the-bone brisket, their menu is a carnivore's dream. The rustic yet modern atmosphere adds to the overall experience.
Highest-rated Barbecue Restaurants in Phoenix
- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (94 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.0/5), Service (4.0/5), Value (3.5/5), Atmosphere (3.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Bar- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 3375 E Shea Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85028-3352- Read more on Tripadvisor
The 4 Best BBQ in Scottsdale, Arizona
Looking for great food with good music and a wonderful ambiance?. Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse is the place for you!. Featured on the Food Network for its unique tasting BBQ, Bootleggers offers something for everyone.
30 Arizona restaurants featured on 'Diners, Drive-ins and Dives'
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse can be found in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. It was featured on "Triple D" in December 2017. Guy Fieri tried the Boot dumplings and the French Dip sandwich.
American Restaurants in Scottsdale, AZ
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse in Phoenix, AZ. Call us at (602) 996-4228. Check out our location and hours, and latest menu with photos and reviews.
7 Romantic Restaurants for Valentine’s Day Date Night in Phoenix – The Place at El Prado Apartment Community
Not a super frilly spot but if you want to dig into good food in a fun environment this is a great choice of Phoenix restaurants for Valentine’s Day dates!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit