REVIEW: RUDY'S

Like lots of places that are on my ever-growing list, Rudy’s has been on there a long time. It jumped to the top of my list after I had my first bite way back at the first Buckeye Civic Institute class back in January.

In case you don’t know, Rudy’s originated in the Texas Hill Country way back in 1989. Their “pits” are wood-fired with oak (see the photo below—one of the pits is visible from the parking lot). This is real, authentic Texas Bar-B-Q!

This past Monday, I was up and out the door early to attend the Memorial Day event at Louis B. Hazelton Cemetery in Buckeye—and visiting Rudy’s on my agenda for the day.

Unfortunately, I didn’t make it in time for breakfast tacos (breakfast ends at 10 AM), but I did make it in time for lunch. And, I don’t know if you were out and about on Monday, but I guess everyone must have been at the pool because the streets were practically empty. Getting from Point A to Point B to Point C was smooth sailing, which made for a peaceful and crowd-free lunch at Rudy’s.

As I approached the front door, I immediately noticed the tables out front. I love to sit outside whenever I can, but decided that the 2 o’clock sun was probably going to bbq me, so I was going to have to sit indoors, which is never my preference. Because, it’s usually so noisy inside of restaurants—I just don’t find that lends to an enjoyable dining experience.

UNTIL…

That was until I opened the door to Rudy’s and the only thing I heard was angels singing (in my head). I don’t know what I was expecting, but it was completely different than anywhere I’ve ever been before. It was so spacious, with so much to look at and take in but not in an overwhelming way.

I can imagine this place gets really busy, but today? Barely a line and plenty of open tables. And, best of all it was CLEAN (the number one thing I look for in any restaurant)!

I ended up grabbing a picnic table in the front ‘room’ and practically had the entire area to myself. It was heaven!

THE MENU

Of course I looked at the menu before arriving, but once I saw it up on the wall, I had to check it out again. You know, just in case I missed something.

I already knew I was probably ordering a Jumbo Smoked Potato ($6.49), but then came the more difficult decisions:

1. Add one meat? ($10.49)

2. Add two? ($12.99)

3. And if brisket’s your pick - do you want it lean, moist or chopped?

HOT STUFF

While waiting line, I heard the girl behind me telling her friend that the potatoes are huge—demonstrating their size with her hands. Because of this, I opted for adding only one meat.

When it was my turn to order, I had to ask for the difference between the different types of brisket. I ended up going with “chopped with sause” (that’s not a typo, that’s how they spell it) with sour cream, butter & cheese.

What I didn’t know, is that the chopped is SPICY. Like really spicy! So much so that it burned my throat—not from the temperature, from the spice. My throat was on fire the entire day. I actually love spicy foods and can usually tolerate quite a bit of heat, so I’m not sure what kind of seasoning they use, but it hit me hard. Lesson learned: I’ll skip the chopped brisket next time.

That said… it was sooooo good though! Like the very best kind of comfort food—rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.

Plus, very filling! Did I mention that the potato is one pound with three ounces of meat?It was so much food that I was full after 4 bites.

Next time, I’m going back for the breakfast tacos. I’ll be sure to share about that adventure on Instagram when I do!

THE TAB

I don’t know how they keep their prices so low, but I’m sure it has to do with their super-efficient setup! From the moment you order, your food is prepped and handed over right at the counter—it’s honestly kind of shocking the speed at which you’re served your food.

They also save on costs (and help the environment) by serving everything in baskets with paper liners. No to-go boxes here—instead they have a giant roll of waxed butcher and paper bags for you to wrap up and take home whatever you don’t finish. (I guarantee you, you’re going home with a bag!)

THE DETAILS

📍 Local Location: 15745 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear, AZ (623/235-9133)

⏰ Hours: 6AM-9PM (Sun-Thurs); 6AM-9:30PM (Fri-Sat)

🧭 Take a Virtual Tour

📱Find Them Online:

• Instagram

• YouTube (Learn How to Cut a Texas Brisket like Rudy’s)

• Website 

⭐️ Also consider Rudy’s if you need food for a crowd. They offer group meals for 10+ and catering for 100+ people. Ordering can be done online and I love how easy their website is to navigate!

GETTING THERE

Rudy’s is located off the 10 at Litchfield. If you’re heading east, you’ll notice the big red barn from the freeway. There is plenty of parking and it’s easy to get in and out of the lot. From my house in Verrado, it took me 10 minutes to get there (granted there was only light traffic that day).

FINAL THOUGHTS

Rudy’s nails the basics in the best possible way—fast service, generous portions, clean surroundings, and food that hits the spot.

Whether you’re craving comfort food, feeding a crowd, or just curious about that giant smoked potato or the breakfast tacos (I cannot wait!!!), Rudy’s delivers. Oh that reminds me, delivery is available too! Check their website.

Thank you, Rudy’s for your tried & true really great bar-b-q!

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Publication Disclaimer: Everything included here is accurate to the best of my knowledge at the time of publication. It is always best to double-check links to be sure event information hasn’t changed if you plan on attending something.

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