Word Of Mouth Grill, a Tempe-based eatery celebrating its 6th anniversary, is preparing to open a new location in Ahwatukee at the corner of Ray Road and 48th St.
The company’s second location is set to open near the Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center. Owner and pitmaster Demetrious Makel tells What Now that he hopes to open this location in the first week of March 2025. Word Of Mouth Grill will offer various meats, all smoked over mesquite. This is a massive accomplishment for Demetrius, who started the company in 2011 with his wife Jacque and their son Giovanni after being encouraged by friends and family.
As a family, they enjoyed hosting gatherings and realized the importance of food in bringing people together. While encouraged to start this company, Demetrious focused on crafting his own dry rubs and barbecue sauces. After five years of catering, they opened their South Tempe restaurant in January 2019, offering a casual dining experience with exceptional food and takeout service. The aroma of their barbecue often fills South Tempe, and their 24-foot by 12-foot smokehouse houses a double-chamber smoker and an open-flame Santa Maria grill stocked with mesquite wood.
“We’re more than just BBQ—we’re a neighborhood spot for mouthwatering smoked meats, homemade sides, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere,” Demetrious tells What Now Phoenix via email. “When you dine with us, you’re not just enjoying award-winning BBQ (made Yelp’s Top 100 BBQ Spots in 2024)—you’re supporting a family-owned business that’s proud to serve this amazing community.”
