Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse

Unlike some reviewers, I'm not a connoisseur of barbecue, but I enjoy it when I can. I had read about *the* local Phoenix hotspot for barbecue, but it sounded too hectic and I just wanted some decent food with normal table service. So I did a little more research and found Bootleggers. It was a bit of a hike from the airport hotel where I was staying, but worth the 20-minute drive. Service was a bit slow but the server was good. I was disappointed that there were no combo barbecue selections (except for a sampler made for at least 2, and I was dining alone). I would have liked a half-brisket, half-hot link option, but I went with the server's recommendation and got the brisket with a side of mac and cheese. The brisket was delicious, nice and juicy, a bit fatty but I've had fattier. There was no sauce served with it, but it didn't need it. The standard fixin's included a roll and cole slaw, which were fine, nothing special. The mac and cheese was good but a little bland. I enjoyed draft Hop Knot IPA from the local Four Peaks Brewing Company, and there were some other good selections from the beer list. Prices were quite reasonable. Overall, a decent experience, and I would return next time I am in Phoenix.

While the service had its lapses, the staff maintained a positive attitude. There were quite a few mistakes due to forgetfulness. The manager didn't seem to be around, and when we had questions about the menu, the waiter was unable to provide answers and didn't know where to find the information. For instance, it was a Wednesday evening, and the menu prominently advertised Prime Rib Wednesdays. When we inquired about it, the waiter said they had never served prime rib and thought it might be a menu item that people overlooked. He did attempt to ask someone else but returned with even less helpful information. Despite these issues, we plan to return because the food was good and the prices were reasonable.

Bootleggers has the best burger I've ever eaten anywhere!! The quality meat, whiskey onions, smoked bacon and special sauce make this burger. Not to mention the soft and delicious pretzel bun! In addition, the apple pie moonshine is to die for. I will going back again to try other things on their menu!!

Great food for meat lovers. Rustic as my friend put it. The cocktails were quite unique and enjoyable. Service was timely and fabulous. Loved it!!

Completely understaffed, one chef in the kitchen...I think our server was hiding from us out of embarrassment over the hour and a half wait for our food so therefore we had no drinks either. Keep our drinks full and bring a basket of chips to the table and all would have been good. Very bad day for Bootleggers and not a manager in sight.