Meet Pitmaster George Frasher

George Frasher's passion for barbecue began long before Frasher's Smokehouse. A graduate of the University of Missouri–Columbia's Hotel and Restaurant Management program, he built his career from the ground up—starting as a dishwasher before working as a cook, server, and cruise director on the Mississippi River. By 22, he helped open the K.C. Masterpiece Bar & Grill in Kansas City as Assistant General Manager, and by 23 became the youngest General Manager in the history of Sam's Fine Dining Steakhouse in St. Louis.

After relocating to Arizona, George managed multiple barbecue restaurants before opening Frasher's Steakhouse & Lounge in Scottsdale in 1999. The restaurant quickly earned a reputation for exceptional food, Midwestern hospitality, and became a favorite gathering place for locals, industry professionals, and celebrities.

Today, George is the owner and pitmaster of Frasher's Smokehouse, where traditional barbecue meets decades of culinary expertise. Every cut of meat is seasoned with signature dry rubs, slow-smoked over pecan wood, and served fresh from the smoker. When it's gone, it's gone.

George personally developed every recipe—from the house-made barbecue sauces to the scratch-made sides—maintaining an uncompromising commitment to quality that has earned Frasher's Smokehouse widespread recognition, including:

Arizona Republic – ★★★★ (4 Stars)
Thrillist – Best BBQ in Phoenix
Phoenix Magazine– 50 Best Places to Eat
Multiple Best BBQ awards from Phoenix Magazine, Phoenix New Times, and AZCentral

For George, great barbecue isn't just a meal—it's a tradition built on passion, craftsmanship, and authentic hospitality.

MARIO

head smoker

Mario has many years of experience in the hospitality industry, but found his true passion 9 years ago when he joined the Frasher's family. His love for good food, fastidious selection of wood, and dedication to producing the best possible meal for his patrons all shine through in his superb finished products.