Family-owned metro Phoenix BBQ restaurant closing: Business is 'no longer a viable option'
Arizona BBQ Company in Gilbert closed after six years.
Located on the corner of Ray Road and Val Vista Drive, husband and wife owners Mark and Colette Nichols serve barbecue with Southwestern touches like green chili and habanero sauce. Each plate also comes with a side of fresh tortillas. The couple announced their plan to close “with a heavy heart” in an Instagram post dated March 17.
“Despite exhaustive efforts to adjust our business model and reduce costs, the persistent downturn in business, exacerbated by the current economic climate and continual rising operational costs, makes it no longer a viable option for Arizona BBQ Company to remain open.”
They thanked the patrons and invited them to visit one last time while the restaurant is still open.
Fans voiced disappointment
“Y'all set the Tone for good BBQ in AZ will be Missed,” wrote bayoubistroaz.
“sad to see you guys go..don’t know where I’m going to find brisket chili now hopefully a food truck/popup will be in the cards for you guys,” commented phrainq.
Visit Arizona BBQ Company one last time
The restaurant closed on March 23.
Details: 1534 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert. 480-361-4180, azbbqcompany.com.
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Reach the reporter at BAnooshahr@azcentral.com. Follow @banooshahr on X, formerly known as Twitter.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona BBQ restaurant closing. Why family-run business can't go on
