My spouse and I visited SMOKE Barbecue Taqueria for drinks
and dessert on a Saturday afternoon in late August 2019 and again for lunch on
a Sunday afternoon in October 2019. SMOKE is open daily for lunch, dinner, and
drinks from Wednesdays through Mondays (closed on Tuesdays). The restaurant does
not accept reservations; it is walk-in only. (On the Sunday that we visited, we
arrived at opening time, and within 15 minutes, all tables were occupied, as
well as most of the bar.) Note that SMOKE is a cash-only establishment, and be
sure to have smaller bills; we tried to pay our $60 tab with a $100 bill, and
they were unable to make change!
Since 2015, SMOKE has occupied a storefront on Butler Street
in Lawrenceville. Prior to that time, it was located in Homestead, where its
tiny space could only accommodate 25 patrons at a time. Now, the long narrow
space can serve 50+ at its long wood bar or at adjacent tables (some of which share
a long banquette on one side) and a few high-top communal stand-alone tables in
front. Décor features lots of wood, exposed brick, and metal.
As its name suggests, SMOKE serves barbecued meats (chicken,
pork, brisket, ribs) in salads, sandwiches, and tacos (they press their own
tortillas). It also offers proteins by the quarter, half, or full pound, with a
la carte sides (potato salad, beans, macaroni and cheese, slaw, and pickles). A
few starters are also available (primarily quesos and other dips). A full
liquor license (beer, wine, cocktails) is available.
October 2019:
