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    Smokebox BBQ Cafe

    3.3 (286 reviews)
    ModerateBarbeque
    Open 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

    Smokebox BBQ Cafe Photos

    Business Info

    SMOKEBOX BBQ CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for kids
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Smokebox BBQ Cafe

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    Brisket - Look how dark and dry it looks
    J E.

    While staying the evening nearby I came here for dinner on a weeknight. They weren't busy that night and service was very quick. I tried their brisket and their turkey. The brisket was dry and looked like it was pre-cut then reheated. The turkey was a lot better. Their fries were really tasty and their beans were great. The potato salad had pickles in it and wasn't very good. Service was friendly. The spicy BBQ sauce was pretty good. Overall, it was just "ok" but nothing special.

    Really dry funny tasting turkey and paper thin slices of Italian sausage.
    John J.

    Went in around 3:00pm. Still serving lunch special. Ordered the two meat platter to go. Got back to the hotel and opened up my little styrofoam container and found this minuscule portion of Turkey and Italian sausage!! Turkey was dry and tasted like it was from a frozen dinner! The Italian sausage was good tasting but there was only 4 paper thin pieces!! Only got one of the two sides as I am cutting carbs. The coleslaw was pretty good but with it being sweet I only ate a bite or two. Definitely not worth almost $16 before a tip. Won't go back!!

    Pulled pork, burnt ends coleslaw and fries
    Marybeth M.

    Friendly service, quick food service, delicious meat sauce, fries, coleslaw! The smoke smell and flavor is fantastic.

    Burnt ends dinner with cheesy corn & beans
    Evelyn M.

    Take out Friday night! Our go to BBQ spot in the Northland never disappoints. The burnt ends had crunch to them which I love! Fries are wedges and crisp on the outside and tender inside and cheesy corn!!!!! The portions are always to much for me but make the best leftovers!

    Chris V.

    Return trip here from a few years back. Very casual setting. Food is very consistently good. Service is more than friendly. Nothing exceptional yet it is delicious.

    Indoor seating
    Tina K.

    After an adventurous travel day, we ended up with a long layover at MCI. That airport does not offer much in terms of food so we found this place and Ubered over. It was a 12 minute ride from the airport and it was soooo worth it! Good BBQ with really nice people. Service was excellent- both of the ladies working were attentive and sweet. My son and I shared a 3 meat plate and a salad and were both stuffed after. Brisket was delicious and so was the pulled pork. The corn is creamy rich deliciousness and the beans had great flavor.

    This place is out of this world!!! It's near the Kansas City airport. Madison is awesome!!!!!!!! The service is Great!!! We took some Ribs and Chicken back to LA. Thank you

    Brisket and burnt ends plate w onion rings and beans
    Amy J.

    Fantastic fried cauliflower and homemade buttermilk ranch. Not cheap but not outrageously expensive either. Burnt ends are juicy and smoky. The beans are thick and sweet and delicious.

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    The food was amazing. The service was fast. I got my food quickly. Drinks were refilled. Great amount of food.

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    Ask the Community - Smokebox BBQ Cafe

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    Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House

    Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House

    4.3
    (3.5k reviews)
    13.7 mi
    $$

    After looking on yelp and eagerly anticipating trying my first KC bbq, this did not do it for me…read more Objectively, there was nothing wrong with my meal. I ordered beef burnt ends, they were juicy and melt in your mouth, but something about the spice blend or bbq sauce just didn't taste all that great to me. The bbq sauce was nothing like I was expecting, but for the sake of getting breasted by the internet, I was expecting a flavor profile similar to KC masterpiece. Thick and spicy molasses flavored, this was a little more tomato than molasses IMO. Meat did not have a strong smoke flavor to it either. But honestly, I'm sure other folks would love this, objectively nothing wrong with it, just did not taste as I was anticipating. Online ordering and pickup was easy which was nice as they were packed when I went in!

    Pork and brisket burnt ends were delicious, perfectly crispy while still juicy in the middle. The…read moresausage was a bit of a let down, the skin had a snap to it but was ultimately too hard to chew through. All 4 BBQ sauces are distinguished and flavorful. For the sides the coleslaw was very refreshing and crunchy, the baked beans had so much flavor depth and the potato salad had the perfect amount of texture. The only thing left to be desired was the jalapeño cornbread it was a bit lackluster and didn't taste much of any jalapeño, the honey butter could've used more honey and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Over all I would give it 8.5/10. Side note: service was wonderful, everyone was very friendly and accommodating

    Photos
    Dining room always full.
    Dining room always full.
    1/3# Jumbo Sandwich with Brisket and Sausage and Potato Salad
    1/3# Jumbo Sandwich with Brisket and Sausage and Potato Salad
    Burnt Ends, Crown Prime Beef Rib, brisket.

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    Burnt Ends, Crown Prime Beef Rib, brisket.
    Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

    Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

    4.6
    (5.3k reviews)
    16.2 mi
    $$

    The best barbecue in the world. Go to the original. You won't be disappointed!!!!!!!!!!read more

    This is arguably the most legendary barbecue restaurant in Kansas City. What's it like to wait in…read moreline for almost half an hour on a Wednesday afternoon at 3 pm? Burnt Ends: The best dish of the day, truly a representative of Kansas City barbecue. The perfect balance of fat and lean meat--the fat was tender and oily, the lean was soft and juicy--a truly soul-satisfying experience. Unfortunately, it was a little too salty. Dipping it in the sweet, sour, and slightly spicy Night of the Living Bar-B-Q Sauce neutralized the saltiness and added a touch of stimulation to the taste buds, elevating it to another level. Ribs: Once selected as one of the "America's Best" ribs. The picture shows only half slab, which feels a bit small . The fat melted into the muscle fibers, making the meat firm on the surface but actually tender; it fell off the bone with a gentle touch. The seasoning was very restrained, with only a subtle smoky flavor, highlighting the natural aroma of the meat. It's great with a simple dip of salt and black pepper, but even better with a little lemon juice! Pulled Pork: Tender and juicy, not dry at all, with a rich smoky flavor--the best pulled pork I've ever had. Sausage: Firm and springy, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a rich smoky flavor, a warm aroma of black pepper, and a distinct sweetness. The Z-Man: A legendary sandwich created in 1997. The smoked brisket and Provolone cheese create a robust aroma, while the onion rings add a crispy texture. However, the Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que Sauce was too strong and sweet, largely masking the natural flavors of the ingredients. In some ways, it's better enjoyed separately. Creamy Cole Slaw: Standard flavor profile, with just little toppings, quite refreshing. BBQ Beans: A surprisingly delightful side dish! Various beans were stewed with grilled beef brisket and shredded pork. The meat melted in the sauce, resulting in a rich and mellow flavor; the beans were incredibly soft, served hot with a hint of spiciness--a truly comforting meal. Potato Salad: The salad dressing was too creamy and sweet. Slide of Texas Toast: The toast itself was quite ordinary, but soaked in the grilled meat juices, it became completely different! All the meats are pre-grilled, and the staff cuts them according to the order. I imagine it would be even better if they were freshly grilled, but given the price and the self-service nature with no tipping required, it's incredibly affordbale in the US.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Burnt Ends Dinner
    Burnt Ends Dinner
    Line wrapped around the building

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    Line wrapped around the building
    Slap's BBQ

    Slap's BBQ

    4.5
    (1.6k reviews)
    12.2 mi
    $$

    We were on a tight drive from Ft. Scott to MCI and had one mission: find true Kansas City-style BBQ…read more-- smoky, not swimming in sauce. Slap's delivered. I ordered the brisket combo with a quarter chicken leg, cheesy corn, and baked potato casserole. My partner went with the brisket sandwich. We grabbed it to go in a hurry... and forgot plastic utensils. Crisis? Maybe. Regret? None. The brisket was perfection -- tender, beautifully smoked, with bark that had just the right texture. The chicken was outstanding too: lightly sauced, deeply flavored, juicy all the way through. Every bite tasted intentional. Even eating it on the go, slightly improvised utensil situation and all, this was some of the best Kansas City BBQ we've had. Would absolutely come back -- preferably with forks next time.

    On a roadtrip and was so excited to pass through KC to try the famous BBQ! Obviously, I can't judge…read morea city's food by one establishment, but I was so disappointed. Got a sampler platter w/ cheesy corn and potato casserole and added burnt ends + ribs to go since I'm traveling with my 2 kitties. Everything was just... bland, especially the brisket and burnt ends. Very surprised the bbq place is so popular when the food is just meh. Was also surprised how cheap the online prices were and turns out, the prices aren't updated. The outdoor seating looks nice, and the staff were friendly, but I would not come back.

    Photos
    Slap's BBQ
    3 Bones Ribs Burnt Ends Brisket Cheesy Corn Mac & Chz
    3 Bones Ribs Burnt Ends Brisket Cheesy Corn Mac & Chz
    Outdoor seating

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    Outdoor seating
    Wolfpack BBQ and Burgers

    Wolfpack BBQ and Burgers

    4.6
    (249 reviews)
    12.5 mi
    $$

    Everything was a delicious moment at this restaurant with the Burnt Ends being the star…read more These are my notes from the meal Cheddar jalapeño sausage - Wowwwwwww Picklesssss amazingggg Poutine - wow Burnt ends - Holy smokes wowww Corn souflee - delicious Cowboy beans - very good Lemon pepper slaw - pass Potato salad - pass Ambiance was welcoming and fun. A place you could for a date, with your friends or family. Service was friendly and food was top notch. Wolfpack is a must visit

    I had high hopes that I would be leaving a 5 star review based on what I've heard and seen…read more Unfortunately, this has been my worst BBQ experience in over 40 years of trying KC BBQ as a native. I almost rated this a 1 star. When I arrived, the place was nice and the young man handling front of house was amazing. I ordered a 3 meat plate to go as I had to be home for an appointment. I rushed inside, mouth watering, opened my box. Turkey looked good, pork belly looked good, the brisket... Straight TRASH. It wasn't even sliced. It looked like they scooped up the stringy bits left over from slicing and called it good. Needless to say I was pissed. The turkey was a hair dry, but flavorful. The pork belly burnt ends were good too. The brisket, which is king in KC que, ruined the whole,thing for me. The way the brisket was served, and it was dry of course, made me feel like they just thought "he's getting it to go, so who cares what he gets." Now as many of you who follow me know, I usually give a place a second chance and hope the experience is better the next time. Not this time. I was deeply insulted at what I got for my money. I may as well have gotten a Banquet TV dinner. Everything else seemed on point, but the star of the show was trash, it ruined the whole thing. So no, I will not be going back and this will NOT be on my list of reccomemds I often mention to people who travel to Kansa City. I truly wasted my money. Avoid this joint. There are MUCH better in the city.

    Photos
    Bar area
    Bar area
    3 meat plate
    3 meat plate
    2 meats plate

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    2 meats plate
    Chef J BBQ

    Chef J BBQ

    4.4
    (114 reviews)
    12.7 mi
    $$

    Gotta get here early. They were sold out most of their meats by 1:30 in the afternoon, which is a…read moregreat thing. Period the brisket was absolutely juicy melted in your mouth. The pulled pork was a standard pulled pork. Overall, great experience great staff made you feel welcome when you walked in the door!

    I was looking for the closest BBQ restaurant, we were checking out the Rock Bridge area. I googled…read morebbq area by me and it directed me to Chef J's. We didn't have to drive too far, as it is located in the West Bottoms in the same building as The Beast(Halloween Haunted House) The restaurant is in an old building, to one side it had a wall of windows that made that seating area nice and bright. You order at the counter top, which we were greeted by a nice gentleman. We looked over the menu and he suggested the 2 meat combo which we ordered. I'm a big Ribs fan and I tell you what...these ribs were big, meaty and juicy!!! I didn't even need any bbq sauce for them. The sausage was great as well, along with the sides. I was full off of 2 ribs and my elote side. I did buy some banana pudding to go which was delicious too!!! As far as drinks go I didn't see any beer/cocktail drinks, just pop or tea. I highly recommend trying out Chef J's, I recently learned on their IG page they are putting one up in North KC that will be open 7 days a week. This location has limited hours/days.

    Photos
    Chef J BBQ
    Sliver of bacon burnt ends and ribs plate
    Sliver of bacon burnt ends and ribs plate
    View of restaurant and order counter

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    View of restaurant and order counter
    Jack Stack Barbecue - Plaza

    Jack Stack Barbecue - Plaza

    4.2
    (1.5k reviews)
    16.7 mi
    $$

    If you're in Kansas City, do yourself a favor and visit Jack Stack Barbecue. Every single thing we…read moretried was outstanding, but the Prime Beef Rib was on another level -- tender, smoky, flavorful and absolutely massive. Easily one of the best barbecue dishes we've ever had. The barbecued shrimp were another surprise favorite. Perfectly seasoned with a rich, buttery sauce that had everyone at the table reaching for more. And the carrot cake? Incredible. Moist, rich, and the perfect way to end the meal. We had also never tried burnt ends before, and now we completely understand the hype. They were smoky, caramelized little bites of heaven and honestly to die for. What made the experience even better was our waitress, Serenity. She was absolutely magnificent -- attentive, friendly, knowledgeable, and made us feel genuinely welcomed from start to finish. Great service can elevate a meal, and she truly did. Between the amazing food, warm atmosphere, and exceptional service, Jack Stack absolutely lived up to Kansas City's legendary barbecue reputation. We'll definitely be back next time we're in town.

    The food was very good. But the service was the worst I've encountered in years. When my two…read morefriends joined me, the waiter brought water, but left without taking their drink orders. We waited 15 min. I had to ask another server to ask him to return. It took a long time to order lunch. The food arrived in a reasonable time. It was good. I don't have a photo of it. Around that time, the volume of the music was turned up. We had to strain to hear each other. It was unpleasant. We waited and waited to order dessert. Again, I had to ask another server to get our waiter. The crème brûlée was good. Waited yet again a long time for the check. A waitress brought it, but the waiter had my cc. Finally got my card and the check. It seemed like such a nice place, but I won't return with service like that. The manager sent a thoughtful reply, and I will contact them. I'd like to add the food was very good.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Shrimp
    Shrimp
    Smoked Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

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    Smoked Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
    County Road Ice House

    County Road Ice House

    3.9
    (355 reviews)
    13.1 mi
    $$

    As far as bar stops go when you're at P&L, County Road Ice House probably isn't the first one on…read morethe list. No, this is more of a sit-yourself-down kind of place, instead of being a make-your-way-to-the-bar-for-yet-another-drink kind of place. But they serve up some Joe's Kansas City BBQ, so you know they've got a reason to pull you in. Nothing says Kansas City quite like smoked meats & fabulous sauces, so get comfy & sample a Z-Man. There is plenty else on the menu, but if you're vegan or vegan-ish, then good luck or maybe have a cheat day. The BBQ is fantastic and Ice House has added their own bar & grille twists, so you have options beyond smoked meats. Seating is pretty good, and with both a wraparound bar and table service, there are plenty of options. As is the norm these days, there are screens in all directions, so you just don't miss a single moment of sportsball if that's your jam. P&L is a jammed up place when events are happening, so if you can find yourself a spot to sit and enjoy, then that's a win. County Road offers that and more, and it's only real knock is the service levels, which can be slow at busy times. But hey, if you have a seat and maybe a drink, then wait just a few extra minutes for servers to plow their way through the bar crowd. Definitely worth it for the BBQ alone.

    First time here, we got to the restaurant late bit was able to be seated…read more Food: I ordered the BBQ pulled pork sandwich which by the way was great. It's was big and came with fries and a pickle spear. The flavor was good and the portions was a little too much for me but I powered through and conquered that beast. The menu has some really good choices I would recommend trying a couple items to get a better feel of the overall menu choices. Staff: It was late maybe an 1hr before closing time and about 20 of is walked in together. Yup! We were totally those people. Sorry guys, but the staff welcomed it and seated us immediately by placing tables together it was great. Orders were placed and everyone got what they ordered so cheers to the staff on that one. The staff was talkative and thanked us on our way out for stopping by to eat. Great team at this establishment. Atmosphere: It was quiet and I think we were tue only ones in the restaurant but again it was late and last minute. The space definitely looks like sporting events and other televised events could be a really great place to hang out. I don't really know so it may be worth checking it out for yourself. Price: My BBQ pulled Pork Sandwich was about $17 and in my opinion that's really good especially considering the portion size of the sandwich and sides. Location: It's located in Kansas City Mousori in the gas light district.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Brisket Nachos.
    Brisket Nachos.
    Inside

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    Inside

    Smokebox BBQ Cafe - bbq - Updated June 2026

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