Lunch with Lance: Caldwell County Mexi-Q – A Gilbert Grub!
By: Lance Reece
Hey Pulse listeners and fellow food enthusiasts! Lance Reece here, and I couldn’t be more excited to kick off a brand-new series, “Lunch with Lance,” proudly brought to you by KVIT-FM 88.7 The Pulse. My mission? To dig into the absolute best local eats, uncover those hidden gems, and share the must-try dishes right here in our incredible community. For our very first adventure, my crew and I set our sights on a spot that’s been generating some serious buzz in the Arizona BBQ food scene: Caldwell County Mexi-Q.
If you’re on the hunt for Gilbert AZ restaurants that truly stand out from the crowd, or perhaps the best BBQ Gilbert has to offer with a fantastic, unique twist, trust me when I say you absolutely need to add Caldwell County Mexi-Q to your list. This isn’t your average barbecue joint; it’s a place where culinary creativity shines, fusing Texan smokehouse traditions with vibrant Mexican flavors. Nestled right here in Gilbert, Arizona, Caldwell County Mexi-Q promises an experience that’s as bold and memorable as its flavors.
The Vibe and the Victuals
Stepping into Caldwell County Mexi-Q, I was immediately enveloped by that unmistakable, mouth-watering aroma of slow-smoked meats – a true siren song for any BBQ lover! The atmosphere felt genuinely laid-back and inviting, with misters in the unexplainable AZ heat making it easy to settle in and prepare for what I knew would be a feast.
My lunch crew, including our very own Michael Mallace and Kairis Boyles, was ready to dive in, and we started with what I’d heard whispers about: their legendary Mexi-Q twinkie. Now, let me tell you, forget everything you think you know about a traditional twinkie. This bad boy is a culinary masterpiece, a true stroke of genius! It’s a spicy, yet undeniably delicious creation, generously stuffed with a creamy, rich cream cheese and tender, flavorful smoked brisket filling, all lovingly wrapped in crispy, savory smoked bacon. Seriously, it was a flavor explosion in every bite – the smoky bacon, the perfectly seasoned brisket, the perfect kick of jalapeño, and the cool cream cheese created a symphony of textures and tastes that I won’t soon forget. It’s an absolute must-try for anyone exploring the diverse Gilbert food scene!
Next up, we absolutely had to sample the Julio’s Mac & Cheese. And I can tell you, it did not disappoint in the slightest. This isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s incredibly creamy, and seasoned just right, with that perfect cheesy pull that makes you want to go back for more spoonfuls. I found it to be the ideal companion to their rich, smoky meats, providing a comforting, savory balance to the robust flavors.
Michael Mallace, always the ambitious eater, opted for two of their famous brisket tacos. These tacos are generously packed with tender, flavorful brisket, and loaded with fresh, vibrant toppings. The verdict? Michael, despite his best efforts, could only finish one! That’s right, folks, a true testament to the generous portions and hearty deliciousness that Caldwell County Mexi-Q consistently serves up. It’s truly satisfying BBQ Arizona style, and then some.
Grub or Dud?
So, after a truly memorable meal that left us all happily stuffed, the moment of truth arrived. Was Caldwell County Mexi-Q a “Grub” or a “Dud?”
The answer was absolutely unanimous among the entire “Lunch with Lance” crew: Caldwell County Mexi-Q is unequivocally a GRUB! The innovative fusion of flavors, the exceptional quality of the smoked meats, and those standout dishes like the unforgettable Mexi-Q twinkie and the perfectly comforting Julio’s Mac & Cheese make it a standout destination in my book. It’s a place that delivers on taste, portion size, and pure culinary creativity.
I’m personally thrilled to declare Caldwell County Mexi-Q “LWL Certified!”
Make sure you carve out some time to visit them in Gilbert, AZ, and when you do, tell them Lance and The Pulse sent you! And, of course, don’t forget to tune into KVIT-FM 88.7 The Pulse for more “Lunch with Lance” adventures coming your way soon.
