After an impressive 34 years of serving the Phoenix community, Hap’s Barbecue Pit will close its doors permanently. The beloved family-owned restaurant, known for its smoked meats and featured on the Food Network, has become a staple for barbecue enthusiasts both locally and from afar.
Family Legacy Ends with Closure
The restaurant was founded by Dan “Happy” Darroch and his wife, Barb Darroch, who initially began their barbecue journey with a homemade smoker. In 2001, they relocated to their current Washington Street location, where they continued to build a loyal customer base. After retiring, their daughter, Christine Darroch, took over the family business to maintain the legacy and uphold the quality their parents established.
Despite her dedication, Christine has decided that it is time to close the restaurant. After running Hap’s for 13 years, she expressed her desire to spend more time with her children. “They wanted to uphold the name and their standard, quality, and the love of their customers they created,” Christine shared in an interview with 12News.
Community Response and Farewell
The news of the closure has prompted a wave of nostalgia among the restaurant’s patrons. Many are making a point to visit one last time to savor their favorite dishes. Among them are the Kramps, a couple from Dewey, Arizona, who have visited nearly every week since they learned of the impending closure. They reflected on the warmth and community spirit that Hap’s has fostered over the years.
Christine expressed her pride in her parents’ achievement, stating, “I’m really proud of my mom and dad…and it’s unbelievable they have created something that has so much love, and I had no idea that we had this large of a family.” As the final days of operation approach, both staff and customers are coming together to celebrate the restaurant’s rich history and the cherished memories created within its walls.
Hap’s Barbecue Pit has become more than just a restaurant; it has built a community around the love of food and family. As customers prepare to bid farewell, the legacy of this iconic barbecue spot will undoubtedly be felt long after the last meal is served.
