Phoenix, Arizona: Bill Johnson's Big Apple BBQ

Old time eatery known for its improvised decorations and, yes, its food.

Bill Johnson's Big Apple BBQ

It should be mentioned that Bill Johnson's Big Apple has been around since the 1950s. There is a fake "jail cell" where Johnson used to broadcast live radio shows. Many country music stars of that era came by the radio station, and their photos are on the wall. Johnson also had a monkey that dressed as a beatnik, drank beer, and played bongos, and you can see photos of the chimp too. They also hosted hot rod and custom car shows back in the day -- more cool pictures on the wall.

This place is a real treasure -- if you go there, you have to look around the whole place to get the full experience!

[Deke Dickerson, 09/29/2012]

Bill Johnson's Big Apple BBQ

Bill Johnson's Big Apple has it all: a diorama featuring a cowboy, a mule and a pig on a spit, awesome neon sign, custom Formica tables and plenty of stuff tacked to the walls.

Old-timey BBQ joint with bountiful portions at pittance prices. Vegetarians can find things to eat if they order creatively.

[Lisa Marie Kuta, 07/28/2009]