Tucson is welcoming a brand new dining and entertainment hotspot, Brother John’s Beer, Bourbon & BBQ, poised to become a favorite for University of Arizona students, alumni, and local families alike. Located in the iconic space formerly known as Wildcat House at 1801 N. Stone Ave, Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona is set to offer a unique experience combining classic barbecue flavors with a vibrant social atmosphere. This exciting venture is spearheaded by John Aldecoa, a UA alumnus who frequented the Wildcat House during his college days, bringing a touch of nostalgia and a fresh vision to this beloved location.
A Tucson Landmark Reborn: The Legacy of Wildcat House
For nearly four decades, Wildcat House was the quintessential University of Arizona hangout, a place where students forged memories and celebrated college life. John Aldecoa, now the driving force behind Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona, fondly remembers those Thursday nights in the early 1990s, scraping together change for the cover charge to enter Wildcat House with his friends. After Wildcat House closed its doors in 2012, the space remained dormant, waiting for a new chapter. Now, Aldecoa, in partnership with his brother David’s New York City restaurant consulting group and David’s partner Sascha Kreideweis, is breathing new life into this 10,000-square-foot building. They are investing around $1 million in a complete renovation to transform the space into Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona, while carefully preserving elements of its storied past.
The extensive remodel includes a 2,400-square-foot Bavarian-style patio beer garden, complete with a fireplace for a cozy outdoor dining experience. Inside, a dedicated bourbon lounge will offer an impressive selection of bourbon flights, expertly paired with food and hosting weekly tasting events. For private gatherings and corporate events, Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona will feature a 2,400-square-foot private dining area with its own bar and entrance. Adding to the lively atmosphere, a stage area is being constructed for live entertainment, promising a dynamic experience for guests. Despite the significant changes, the Aldecoa brothers are committed to honoring the history of Wildcat House. Seventies-era disco balls will be playfully repurposed in the restrooms, and old photographs from Wildcat House’s past will adorn a “Throwback Thursday” themed wall, inviting patrons to reminisce and share their own Wildcat House stories. Even the heavy terra cotta wall decorations, featuring handcrafted sculptures of Wilbur and Wilma Wildcat and former owner William Everett, will be preserved and integrated into the new design of Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona.
Brother John’s BBQ Experience: Beer Garden, Bourbon Lounge & More
Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona is designed to be more than just a restaurant; it’s envisioned as a destination. The Bavarian-style beer garden offers a relaxed outdoor setting, perfect for enjoying Tucson’s pleasant weather. The bourbon lounge aims to be a sophisticated space for bourbon enthusiasts and novices alike, offering curated flights and tasting experiences. The inclusion of a private dining area caters to a variety of needs, from corporate events to family celebrations, making Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona a versatile venue. Live entertainment will further enhance the atmosphere, making it a vibrant spot for evening gatherings.
David Aldecoa emphasized the scale of the project, highlighting the expansion of the kitchen and the addition of dry storage – something the original Wildcat House kitchen lacked. Upon taking over the building, they found remnants of the past, including drink glasses on the bar and records in the DJ booth, adding to the sense of history being preserved and reimagined at Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona. The building itself is also undergoing essential upgrades, with a new roof and air conditioning system being installed by the owners, addressing previous issues that contributed to Wildcat House’s closure. The Aldecoas are also investing in a new parking lot, ensuring convenience for their future patrons at Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona. Inside, reclaimed custom-cut pine lumber from the original Wildcat House is being repurposed, and the cedar planks lining the walls are being carefully preserved, adding a touch of rustic charm and continuity to the new establishment. David Aldecoa noted that the cedar is perfect for a barbecue joint, aligning with the intended culinary focus of Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona.
Savor the Flavor: Brother John’s BBQ Menu Highlights
Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona aims to fill a gap in Tucson’s dining scene, offering a dedicated barbecue experience in a city known for its Mexican cuisine. Marketing director Ines Newby pointed out the underserved barbecue market in Tucson, indicating a strong potential for Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona to become a local favorite. The menu is curated by executive chef Nate Eckhaus, bringing 15 years of culinary experience from kitchens across the country and even Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe. His background includes managing multiple food and beverage outlets at prestigious hotels, promising a high level of culinary expertise at Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona.
The menu at Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona will feature slow pit-smoked meats, embracing traditional Southern-style barbecue while incorporating Southwestern and Latin influences. Expect Texas-style salt-and-pepper-rubbed brisket, “Bam Bam”-style short ribs, baby-back and St. Louis-style ribs, and house-smoked pork belly. Locally sourced chiles will add a unique Southwestern flair to the barbecue offerings. Beyond barbecue, the menu will also include burgers, Southern fried chicken, and a variety of comfort-food sides and salads, ensuring options for everyone. Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona will serve both lunch and dinner and will feature two daily happy hours, one in the afternoon and another late at night, catering to different schedules and preferences. David Aldecoa emphasized their commitment to using local and sustainable ingredients, partnering with Southern Arizona farmers and ranchers whenever possible, further rooting Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona in the local community.
Brother John’s BBQ Tucson Arizona is more than just a new restaurant; it’s a revival of a beloved location, reimagined for a new generation. With its combination of classic barbecue, extensive drink options, live entertainment, and commitment to local sourcing, Brother John’s Beer, Bourbon & BBQ is poised to become a must-visit destination in Tucson.
