The Original Mr. K's Moves
The Original Mr. K's BBQ restaurant, which was at 1830 S. Park Ave., has moved to 6302 S. Park Ave. I was always a fan of the unpolished feel at the original Mr. K's, but the move positions the restaurant to begin a new chapter of Tucson barbecue history. The new space—which used to house Snuffy's Grill—is nearly twice as big as the former spot, and it's got a fresher feel. The menu and prices appear to be about the same. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
Smokin' Barbecue Trucks
Fans of fine smoked meats will want to check out what Bobby Dean's Hickory BBQ food truck is up to. The truck serves amazing smoked brisket, pork, chicken, baby-back ribs, wings, sandwiches and all the classic barbecue side dishes. Owner Robert Mikles even tows a portable smokehouse behind the truck, filling the air with delectable barbecue smoke wherever he goes. Mikles tells us he'll be parked in front of Putney's Sports Saloon, 6090 N. Oracle Road, for the foreseeable future. Prices range from $6 for a sandwich to about $20 for a pound of meat to go; 975-6910.
Speaking of mobile barbecue, have you checked out Guero Loco's Bubba-Que yet? The food truck shows up at numerous food-truck gatherings around town, wowing crowds with tender, smoked meats that show up in tacos, burritos and other dishes. Call 425-6642, or find the truck on Facebook for more information.
Jack's Original Barbeque Closes
In sad barbecue news, longtime barbecue-joint Jack's Original Barbeque, at 5250 E. 22nd St., has closed. The restaurant, which opened nearly 50 years ago, experienced a significant drop in patronage in recent years.
Labor Day Deals
Those planning on breaking out the grill for Labor Day weekend might want to do a bit of shopping at the Collegiate Cattle Growers Association at the University of Arizona. The club sells an enormous selection of fine, locally raised meats from 3 to 6 p.m., Friday, at 4181 N. Campbell Ave.; www.ccgameats.com.
For those who don't feel like cooking, we suggest the two-for-one entrée specials at the various restaurants in the Metro Restaurant family. The deal is good throughout the Labor Day weekend; www.metrorestaurants.com.
