Uber delivers Little Miss BBQ...for one day only

The endless line at Little Miss BBQ is a testament to the perfection of pitmaster Scott Holmes' Texas-style barbecue. But for one day, an Uber promotion will allow 'cue heads to skip the line (and the heat) and have smoky brisket and sausage delivered directly to their doors.

Wednesday, July 1, starting at 11 a.m., Uber users in Phoenix may discover a small "BBQ" button at the bottom of the screen when they open the app. Tapping "Request BBQ" will initiate a call with an Uber representative, who will confirm the order and dispatch an Uber driver to deliver up to four lunches for $18 apiece, each of which includes two slices of brisket, one sausage, coleslaw, grits, and a Hubert's lemonade.

It's a one-off event, but not unprecedented for Uber, which has previously delivered ice cream, Christmas trees, and even kittens as promotional stunts.

"We're just really stoked about Little Miss BBQ," says Gabe Williams, senior marketing manager at Uber. "What better way to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend than with some of the best BBQ in town?"

It isn't marketing speak. Williams and Holmes have a history.

"Gabe's been coming in since the very beginning," says Holmes. "He's a loyal fan."

When Williams suggested that Holmes participate in an Uber promotional event, he jumped at the chance.

"I like doing anything that's a challenge," says Holmes. "You think, oh man, that's a lot of food. I can do that. Hey, that sounds like fun!"

Additionally, Holmes thought it would be a good opportunity for those who can't leave work long enough to visit his restaurant.

"We're hoping to make a lot of people really happy," says Holmes.

In addition to his usual daily production for the restaurant, Holmes is preparing to serve 325 meals through Uber, starting with a massive carryout order to start the day.

"Uber is picking up 180 to-go containers at 10:30 tomorrow," says Holmes. He notes that the Uber drivers shouldn't have any trouble finding the restaurant. "We get a ton of drivers who come in every day."

Delivery is limited to central Phoenix and Tempe, and the promotion will continue until 2 p.m., or until the meat runs out.

Fans of Little Miss know the smart money's on the latter happening first.