Seemor
Kiss of Smoke BBQ
663 S Plumer Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719
· Barbecue restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (589 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Popular daytime BBQ spot with standout brisket, loaded sides, and sell-out crowds; arrive early for best selection and value.
Restaurant Summary
This small, counter-service BBQ joint feels warm and bustling, especially at lunch when lines form and the smoker often sells out early. Staff come off friendly and helpful, steering folks to crowd-favorite sides. One diner put it simply: "Worth the drive, but get there before noon if you want brisket." The cooking leans traditional and smoke-forward rather than flashy. Brisket, mac and cheese, fried okra, and rib plates carry the day, with loaded potatoes and breakfast burritos adding a fun twist. Most plates hit that sweet spot of comfort and craft, though a few guests noted occasional dryness or small sides—still, the overall feel is solid backyard barbecue done right. Families are well served here. There is a kids plate and plenty of familiar sides (mac, fries, potato salad), and several parents said even picky eaters finished everything. For the most kid-friendly path, choose brisket or chicken with mac or fries; adventurous kids may like the loaded tater. Breakfast burritos offer easy options too.
At a Glance
- Brisket, mac and cheese, and fried okra draw consistent praise
- Friendly counter team and efficient catering
- Limited seating and frequent sell-outs by early afternoon
- Portions for sides can feel small to some
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- sell_out_freshness_model
- loaded_potato_specials
- strong_local_following
What People Love
- Deep smoke flavor on brisket
- Creamy mac and cheese that feels homemade
- Crispy fried okra hard to find elsewhere
- Local vibe where regulars are greeted by name
- Loaded potato specials that satisfy
Points of Concern
- Sell-outs can happen before 2 pm; arrive early for brisket and ribs
- Some reviews cite small side portions relative to price
- Occasional brisket dryness or heavy seasoning reported
- Review patterns show no major manipulation; high five-star share appears authentic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$22-$32 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For value, choose Perle's Plate ($13.50) at lunch
- Loaded Mac or Fries ($12-$13) work well as sharable sides
- Jackfruit available for vegetarians; verify freshness on off-peak days
Perfect For
- Early lunch when you want smoked meats fresh off the pit
- Casual takeout on rib day
- Feeding a crowd with the Family Feast
- Quick breakfast burrito stop
Location Insights
Area: Casual midtown corridor near industrial and residential streets; draws locals and students for lunch.
Safety: Generally safe daytime environment with steady foot traffic; simple storefront, clean inside per reviews.
Nearby: Short drive from University of Arizona; light industrial blocks, neighborhood homes, small businesses.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday10:00–15:00
Thursday10:00–15:00
Friday10:00–15:00
Saturday10:00–15:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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